Cycle News

Cycle News 2023 Issue 11 March 21

Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles

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COMPARISON I 2023 HONDA CRF450X & CRF450RX P92 The MX52 tires, which are discontinued but still come on the X, are effective. They are a little stiffer than the AT81s that come on the RX, which makes the '52s a little more durable and less prone to flats. Honda also went with the MX52s because they are quieter on the pavement, enabling the X to pass EPA's ride-by sound test. However, there are a few things we don't like about the X, like weight. The X is down - right heavy at a claimed 275 pounds, making it a handful over loose rocks and anything super technical, especially at slower speeds. Its tall 38-inch seat height doesn't help here, either. And the X is a bear to pick up should you drop it. However, at speed, you won't notice the weight so much; it might even help give the X some added sta - bility, depending on the terrain. The X also turns well despite its straight-line prowess. Comparing the X to the RX is almost like comparing apples to oranges. They are very differ - ent motorcycles. The RX is all about going fast. It's way more aggressive than the X, has more outright power and hits much harder. You can manage that hit somewhat via its three engine modes, but even in the mildest mode, the RX still rips. Mild mode or not, the RX isn't much fun on the tight twisties or threading your way through the trees and thick bushes, unlike the X. In the tight stuff, the RX feels like a lot of motorcycle and wears on you after a while, and it flames out more than the X. It's just not happy in these con - ditions. Instead, the RX wants to spread its wings on more open terrain, like western-style GP tracks or motocross tracks. It's in these settings where the RX shines. It has the suspension to keep up, too. However, it's a You want power for the hills, sand washes and open terrain? The CRF450X has you covered.

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