2016 HONDA CRF450R
FIRST RIDE
P62
As mentioned, Honda did not completely ignore
its latest version of the CRF450R. They gave the
CRF's chassis a little bit of attention to improve the
overall balance and feel of the bike. For many, the
CRF450R sat a little too low in the front, so they
increased the length of the fork 5mm and did so
without increasing stroke; they simply added length
at the bottom of the fork tubes. To compensate, the
rear suspension got a new link for a different ratio,
and revised shock settings.
The longer fork and new linkage actually change
some of the CRF's dimensions, albeit negligibly.
Both the wheelbase and seat height have been
increased by a tenth of an inch, and rake and trail
have also been increased ever so slightly.
The shock is also more adjustable than before.
There are now eight clicks per rotation of the ad-
justors compared to the previous four. This allows
for more ultra fine-tuning.
They also reduced the diameter of the chain
roller by 4mm (from 38mm to 34mm). Honda
claims that this improves traction, because there is
now less restricted movement on the chain as the
swingarm travels further upward.
That's about it as far as changes. The CRF450R
retains its untouched 449cc Unicam four-valve mo-
tor, Honda Progressive Steering Damper (HPSD),
The Honda's smooth
power and extreme
agility makes the
lightweight CFR450R
fun to ride.
The 2016 CRF450R
looks likes just like
the 2015 and it pretty
much is but with a few
chassis changes.
