VOL. 54 ISSUE 34 AUGUST 29, 2017 P105
Instead of spinning through the power with an
initial heavy hit, and then revving out quickly,
like some experienced with the 2017, the new
CRF450R produces a more usable chunk of
power that is perfect for controlling speed,
while also hauling ass.
Maps 2 and 3 feel the same as before. Map
2 is still very useful in slick, low-traction condi-
tions, and Map 3 bumps the thrill factor up a
notch or two when the dirt is moist and grippy.
Honda also stiffened up the suspension
a bit. Both the fork and shock have one-rate
heavier springs (remember, Honda went back
to Showa coil-spring forks last year) while
also taking on revised damping. As a result,
for faster and heavier riders, overall stabil-
ity has been improved slightly, and because
it has more hold up (because of the stiffer
springs) now, the bike floats over the chatter
and stutter bumps with more comfort. Bottom-
(Top) Honda
returned to
coil-spring forks
in '17; they're
back in '18,
only stiffer.
Heavier riders
will like that.
(Bottom) Honda
went with the
lightest, trickest
and most highly
advanced
battery they
could find to
operate its
now-permanent
electric starting
system.
