– Motorcycle Buyer’s Guide | 2017 CRF450RX = Honda’s Fastest Enduro & Woods Race Dirt Bike! –

Alright ladies and gentleman, today we’re going to go over the All-New 2017 Honda CRF450RX and cover its detailed specs from the engine to the frame, suspension etc. There is a LOT to cover so pull up a seat and get comfortable as this will take a few minutes to go over the nitty-gritty details. Don’t have a lot of time and want the “quick version” of this write-up? Scroll down to the bottom of the page and you’ll see a Quick Overview of Features section with a breif overview on everything you need to know about this new dirt bike from Honda!

• Detailed 2017 CRF450R Review / Specs – Frame, Engine & Suspension – CLICK HERE

• OFFICIAL 2017 CRF450RX / CRF450R Announcement – CLICK HERE

• OFFICIAL 2017 CRF Dirt Bike Announcements (Including all models) – CLICK HERE

Honda has an all-new, genuine competition-ready enduro machine in its off-road line up! Alongside the CRF450R, Honda can now also provide enduro riders with a race-ready machine – the new CRF450RX. Sharing the CRF450R’s new engine and frame package (Honda’s first totally all-new 450cc motocross bike in 8 years!), the CRF450RX has crucial changes to create an uncompromising enduro focus.

2017 CRF450RX Photo Gallery / Pictures (bottom of page)

The All-New 2017 CRF450RX takes some features from the CRF450X and CRF450R, puts them together to give you everything you could ever want out of an enduro bike or just to have the baddest true trail bike that isn’t a full-bore motocross / supercross race bike like the R variant of the CRF450. The Honda CRF450R has been a benchmark since its introduction in 2002. It has defined the art of balance, with an engine that produces hard-hitting, useable power and a chassis that allows the rider to put every drop of that power to good use. It has always been a machine that offers total control, together with the stability and durability that Honda has long been famed for. This makes it the perfect platform on which to build an enduro machine, giving the CRF450RX both the pure moto-cross DNA to deal with any special enduro stage and the confidence-inspiring competence to handle flat-out trails, challenging climbs and tight, tricky sections with ease. If you wanted a truly bad and insane off-road motorcycle for the trails in the last decade, you had to buy the CRF450R and have a compromise here and there and or swap parts out to make it more friendly if you weren’t racing it – WFO everywhere! Still don’t need something that is this track and race orientated? Honda is keeping the CRF450X around for 2017 as it is still a very potent package for more than the average woods enthusiast.

2017 CRF450RX Videos

2017 CRF450RX Walk-Around Video | 4K

Among the features that distinguish it from the CRF450R are a smoother ignition map and standard electric start (with kick-start backup), while chassis differences include off-road-focused suspension settings, a revised cylinder-head hanger and changed wheel hubs and axles. The CRF450RX also comes with off-road-appropriate components like a larger plastic fuel tank, forged-aluminum side stand, 18 inch rear rim and Dunlop Geomax AT81 tires, making it the ultimate weapon for events like those in the GNCC series.

The CRF450RX is something truly special, not just for Honda, but for the enduro world to ride and race. It looks different and feels different to the rest of the pack. And, just like the new CRF450R, it is compellingly fast.

Mr M. Uchiyama, Large Project Leader (LPL) 2017 CRF450RX:

“The CRF450RX is a pure, race-ready enduro tool like nothing else Honda has ever made. It uses the greatly improved performance of the brand new CRF450R and we made no sacrifices in producing this ‘RX’ enduro version, which offers something completely new to expert riders everywhere. It is built to win straight from the crate, at the highest level of competition.”

2017 CRF450RX Overview

The 2017 CRF450R has been built from the wheels up based on direct input from AMA and European MX teams, and packs a power to weight ratio 11% better than the outgoing design. The CRF450RX is identical in almost every area, but has some crucial changes to create an uncompromising enduro focus.

Both front and rear suspension are less firm, with lighter compression damping and a lower spring rate for the shock. It uses an enduro-standard 18in rear wheel, and sidestand and 8.5L fuel tank are also added for practicality and extended range.

The CRF450RX’s PGM-FI ignition timing map produces softer power and torque delivery than the CRF450R to aid traction feel in awkward conditions. As on the CRF450R, the EMSB (Engine Mode Select Button) provides the rider with 3 distinct choices: Mode 1 equals all-round smooth performance, Mode 2 gives the most easy-to-manage throttle feel, and Mode 3 delivers the power in the most aggressive, responsive way. Electric start is fitted as standard.

2017 CRF450RX horsepower & torque ratings? At this time, Honda hasn’t released them yet but if you figure the 11% gain from the 2016 CRF450R against the 2017 CRF450R and even back in 16′ the R model made quite a bit of horsepower. It’s going to be interesting to see what the true figures are.

• 2017 CRF450RX Price: $9,249
• 2017 CRF450RX Release Date: December 2016

2017 CRF450RX Features

Engine

The CRF450RX’s 449cc engine shares the specification of the new CRF450R engine, which has received an 11% boost in top-end power for 2017, while still offering its trademark progressive, usable power and torque delivery throughout the range. Compression ratio is set at 13.5:1 with bore and stroke of 96mm x 62.1mm.

A four-valve Unicam cylinder head, with a finger rocker arm on the inlet valves, gives inlet valve lift of 10mm; exhaust valve lift is 8.8mm. Inlet valve diameter is 38mm and 2-way valve seat machining smooths gas flow. The downdraught intake provides a direct, straight shot to the inlet ports.

The valve springs are oval in cross section, reducing height to allow for more compact head dimensions. Narrow valve angles of 9° intake and 10.5° exhaust, plus a redesigned flat-topped piston, boost combustion efficiency. A 4-hole piston oil jet reduces piston temperature and deals effectively with the increased temperatures generated by the high compression ratio. Both the piston pin and finger rocker arms have a DLC coating (Diamond-like Carbon), which has excellent abrasive resistance and durability, while also reducing frictional losses

The engine uses a scavenge pump to distribute oil for both transmission and clutch, reducing friction, improving lubrication efficiency and reducing pumping losses. Oil capacity is 1250cc with one sump storing oil for engine, clutch and gearbox.

The compact clutch spins 7 friction disks and the 6 center plates feature a special surface friction material. A 2mm clutch plate dissipates heat efficiently while judder springs generate a good connection feeling on the clutch. All five gear ratios are the same as the CRF450R, but with final drive handled by 13- and 50-tooth sprockets (as opposed to 13/49).

The rider controls and displays are rationalised together and sited on the left handlebar; EFI warning, plus EMSB mode button, LED indicator and engine stop/start button for the standard-fitment electric starter, which makes restarting a stalled engine much easier, especially on tracks with rocky, uneven surfaces.

Honda’s EMSB puts instant engine character adaptability at the rider’s command. With the machine stopped, and engine at idle, a simple press and hold of the button for just under a second selects the next map in sequence.

The LED built into the button signals the map in use with a quick press and number of subsequent flashes (1 flash for Mode 1, etc). If a new map is selected the choice is also confirmed to the rider.

Mode 1 is the base map and provides the most linearity in throttle response, making the engine’s power much more usable in a wide range of conditions. Mode 2 tones down engine performance (especially useful for a tired rider) while Mode 3 delivers the power in the most responsive way – with a delivery similar to the standard mapping (Mode 1) of the CRF450R.

This is a full competition engine and needs regular maintenance. Service intervals are straightforward however with oil/filter changes and valve clearance checks every 15 hours. The engine does not need to be totally stripped and rebuilt after a certain number of hours’ use.

Frame / Chassis

The CRF450RX uses the seventh generation CRF aluminum beam frame with improved turning performance, front-end stability and traction. It also delivers greater rear wheel drive with elevated levels of rider feedback and predictability.

Tapered main spars have 100% of the lateral stiffness of the previous frame, but torsional stiffness is 6.8% less to improve turning ability and feel. The frame weighs 20.2 lbs; the extruded rear subframe 2.3 lbs.

Several subtle changes to the geometry and dynamic parameters have been made compared to the outgoing CRF450R, all of which give considerable benefits to both moto-cross and enduro riders. The center of gravity height is 2.7mm lower. The wheelbase is 1482mm. Distance between the front wheel axle and swingarm pivot is 913mm, with distance from swingarm pivot to rear axle only 569mm. This geometry transfers more weight to the rear wheel for outstanding traction.

Seat height is 37.8 in. Rake and trail are set at 27.4°/116mm. Total wet weight on the 17′ CRF450RX comes in at 261 lbs.

The CRF450RX is a slim, compact machine that’s easy to manage thanks to the low center of gravity. Its rear tyre is loaded hard to dig for drive, matching the front end’s grip level and feel for traction at the limit.

And Honda’s enduro machine is equipped with a fully adjustable 49mm Showa USD coil spring fork – a version of the Showa factory fork supplied to MX race teams in the Japanese national MX championship. The cylinder features a 25mm diameter, with a 14mm rod and 39mm compression piston.

As you would expect from what is effectively race-spec suspension, out of the crate the fork action is supple, smooth and fully in control. Compared directly to CRF450R spec. the CRF450RX fork uses less oil with reduced compression damping, giving a softer reaction feel more suitable for general off-road riding.

The fully adjustable Showa rear shock is mounted low and on the center-line of the machine for optimal mass centralisation and high-speed stability. Its spring rate goes from 54N/mm (CRF450R) to 52N/mm, with compression damping reduced to match. It offers supple, compliant control. At 599mm in length the aluminum swingarm is 18mm shorter than that of the outgoing CRF450R, with thinner shaping (in cross section) for the arms.

A 260mm wave-pattern front disc delivers effective heat dissipation, power and feel from the two-piston brake caliper working it; a matching 240mm wave-pattern disc and single-piston caliper is at the rear. Lightweight aluminum rims, with directly attached spoke pattern layout reduce unsprung weight; the front is 21 x 1.6in, the rear 18 x 2.15in. Fitted as standard equipment are Dunlop’s bespoke enduro Geomax AT81 tyres: 90/90-21 front and 120/90-18 rear.

Fuel range for the 2017 CRF450RX is (approx. 40 miles) thanks to the use of a 2.2 gallon fuel-tank. Thinner, lighter cylinder head hangers compensate for the extra weight of both tank and fuel. New plastics with smooth external lines help the rider move easily around the machine and the machine’s frontal area is narrow; the width of the radiator / tank shrouds is just 410mm while the front mudguard directs an efficient funnel of air to the radiator.

The forged aluminum sidestand tucks high out of the way and attaches to the frame at the left footpeg mount via a stainless steel bracket. Like the CRF450R, the bodywork uses durable film inset graphics that cover a wide area with scratch resistant style.

Don’t want to read through the whole post? Here’s a quick overview of the 2017 CRF 450 RX features and specs you need to know below…

2017 CRF450RXFeatures | Quick Overview

Engineering

Electric and Kick Start
Talk about the best of both worlds: The new 2017 CRF450RX comes with both a kick- and electric-starting system as standard equipment. Having both options will ensure faster GNCC starts for the ultimate holeshot.

260mm Front Brake
The CRF450RX’s large front-brake disc measures a whopping 260mm. You get great brake feel and a wave pattern that cuts down on weight. Front and rear brake-disc guards are part of the package, and are sure to be popular with off-road riders.

Skid Plate
A factory skid plate is light and offers the engine and lower-frame protection that a motocross racer demands. The smooth contours help keep you from getting hung up on logs and rocks, too.

Kickstand
It seems like a small detail, but off-road bikes can sometimes need a kickstand. Which is exactly why you’ll find this light, compact unit added right from the factory.

Large Fuel Tank
Stopping for fuel in a race costs time. With the CRF450RX’s 2.2-gallon fuel tank, depending on the course and how much roost you’re making everyone else eat, it’s possible to make it through a three-hour enduro with just one fuel stop.

Engine Mode Select Button
This simple, handlebar-mounted button lets you dial in engine power delivery character with a push of your thumb. Choose between Standard, Smooth, and Aggressive, depending on course conditions.

Handling

18-Inch Rear Wheel
An 18-inch rear wheel is another indication of the CRF450RX’s off-road heritage. Whether it’s red Georgia clay, Florida loam, or Baja sand and rocks, you’re going to find this bike offers the performance you need.

Off-Road Suspension with Spring Fork
Designed specifically for the demands of off-road riding, the CRF450RX’s new Showa Spring Fork and suspension components are fully adjustable and chosen to give you the ultimate tunability and performance in the field for changing conditions.

New Dual-Muffler Exhaust System
The CRF450RX’s dual exhaust system is compact and positioned closer and lower in the frame’s center to take weight off the rear end and bring more mass to the bike’s center for superior handling.

Performance

Dunlop Geomax Off-Road Tires
The new Geomax AT81 tires are specially designed for off-road riding, and help the new CRF450RX hook up and put its holeshot traction to the ground.

New Aluminum Frame
Our twin spar aluminum frame positions the rear shock’s mounting point low, opening up the airbox area and contributing to a lower center of gravity. The frame geometry also helps give you more traction, and that means more holeshots!

New Flywheel
Off-road riders want smooth power delivery that gives the engine’s revving character, better matching it for tougher terrain. That’s why the new CRF450RX gets a special flywheel tuned for off-road use.

Cylinder Head Layout
The 2017 CRF450RX uses a new “in-finger” rocker design. The efficient Unicam cylinder head gives you the design and performance of a double-overhead-cam layout but the compactness of a single-overhead-cam design.

Scavenge Pump
Deep in the engine, there’s a new oil scavenge pump. You may never see it, but it helps keep the CRF450RX’s overall design compact.

2017 CRF450RX Photo Gallery

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