Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/1541716
The engine on the new Honda remains one of the best in class. It's not totally different from years past; the delivery is much easier to ride while retain - ing a strong bottom-end feel. Torque from down low feels like a 450 should, and it allows you to carry a gear high if you so choose. Many newcomers to the 450 class feel more like a big-bore 350, and it's always refreshing to ride the Honda for its punchy low end. The power modes are also well differentiated with three unique feelings. The smooth map (two lights) is noticeably tamer than the aggressive mode (three lights), and the standard map (one light) splits the difference between the two. I personally bounce between ag - gressive when the track is deep and usually opt for the smooth map for longer motos or when the track is more hardpacked. New bodywork on the CRF makes it easy to move around while piloting the red ride. Flared rear panels are sym - metrical and feature a textured grip on both sides. This doesn't seem like much, but I found it handy when squeezing the bike with my legs or sliding toward the rear end. The radiator shrouds are smooth without a multitude of bolts to catch your boots. Overall, the cockpit is classic Honda, and you'll find yourself adapting within the first few laps. My only real complaint with the CRF is that the front sus - pension is set up too soft from the factory, but that's why it's adjustable. The stock grips are still atro- cious and rock hard. Get your dealer to add a set of after- market grips to the sale. Also, the pull of the Nissin hydraulic clutch feels stiffer than the others in the class; the Nissin on the Yamaha is much easier to pull, and the Brembo on the Kawasaki is butter smooth. 2026 HONDA CRF450R ($9699) ENGINE TYPE 4-stroke, single COOLING SYSTEM Liquid DISPLACEMENT 450cc VALVETRAIN 4-valve, Unicam SOHC STARTING SYSTEM Electric FUELING Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI), 44mm downdraft throttle body TRANSMISSION 5-speed, hydraulic clutch FRAME Aluminum FRONT SUSPENSION 49mm inverted Showa fork, fully adjustable REAR SUSPENSION Pro-Link Showa single shock, fully adjustable FRONT-WHEEL TRAVEL 12.2 in. REAR-WHEEL TRAVEL 12.2 in. FRONT WHEEL 21 in. REAR WHEEL 19 in. FRONT TIRE Dunlop MX33; 80/100-21 in. REAR TIRE Dunlop MX33; 100/90-19 in. BRAKES Disc SEAT HEIGHT 37.8 in. GROUND CLEARANCE 13.1 in. FUEL CAPACITY 1.7 gal. WHEELBASE 58.4 in. WEIGHT (CLAIMED) 249 lbs. (Left) The CRF450R's engine is still one of our favorites. (Right) In 2025, the frame was reinforced in key areas, including the rear shock mount. QUICKSPIN I 2026 Honda CRF450R P84