– Detailed 2019 Honda CRF450R & CRF450RWE Review / Buyer’s Guide: Changes, Price, Release Date, Horsepower & Torque Performance Info + More! –

Honda hasn’t been playing around the last few years with their CRF450R and for 2019 they are raising the bar even higher with New Changes to the 2019 450 CRF for the 3rd year in a row! Typically, a manufacturer will release a newly changed-up and revamped model and then continue its production on for a couple to few years to recoup their R&D costs before that model goes back under the knife for more tweaks. Every single change, no matter how small, has to go through research and development which = big big money $$! If you want to stay on top though, you have to keep innovating and that’s what Honda is after and after seemingly losing sight of that for a short period of time, they are back and rocking full-force ahead with this new 2019 CRF450R and all of the other new CRF dirt bikes for 2019. If you can’t find a dirt bike that is perfect for you in Honda’s 2019 model lineup when you have the following to choose from: CRF405R, CRF450X, CRF450RX, CRF450RWE Works Edition, CRF450L, CRF250R, CRF250RX, CRF150R, CRF230F, CRF110F, CRF50F and that list keeps going too, then something is wrong haha. Now, let’s get to why you’re here and that’s for more information on the 2019 CRF450R… 

Key 2019 CRF450R Info (for those in a hurry):

• 2019 CRF450R Price / MSRP: $9,299 (targeted)
• 2019 CRF450RWE Works Edition Price / MSRP: $11,499
• 2019 CRF450R Release Date: August 2018
• 2019 CRF450R Colors: Red
• 2019 CRF450R Horsepower: 60.8 HP @ 9,500 RPM
  
• 2019 CRF450R Torque: TBA
• 2019 CRF450R Seat Height: 37.8 inches
• 2019 CRF450R Weight: 247 lbs (curb)
• 2019 CRF450R VS 2018 CRF450R Price / MSRP Increase: +$150
• 2019 CRF450R VS 2018 CRF450R Changes: Yes, I break down the details more in-depth below but here is a quick highlight – The CRF450R receives a major boost of top-end power and torque, and improved performance throughout the rev-range; it also gets 3-level HRC Launch Control plus durability-focused upgrades. The chassis features revised suspension settings, detailed weight-saving updates and a new Renthal Fatbar handlebar.

• New 2019 Honda Motorcycle Announcements: 

  • 2019 Honda Motorcycle Announcement #1 – Click Here
  • 2019 Honda Motorcycle Announcement #2 – Click Here
  • 2019 Honda ATV Announcement #1 – Click Here
  • 2019 Honda ATV Announcement #2 – Click Here

• 2019 CRF450R Review Contents:

  • 1. | CRF450R Introduction
  • 2. | CRF450R Model Overview
  • 3. | Key CRF450R Features / Development
    • 3.1 | CRF450R Engine
    • 3.2 | CRF450R Chassis / Suspension
  • 4. | CRF450RWE Works Edition Details
  • 5. | CRF450R Photo Gallery / Pictures
    • 5.1 | CRF450RWE Photo Gallery / Pictures
  • 6. | CRF450R Technical Specifications
    • 6.1 | CRF450RWE Technical Specifications

1. | CRF450R Introduction

The Honda CRF450R has been the moto-crosser to beat since its introduction 2002. It has become a byword for balance and agility, and as such has always offered its rider – whether amateur enthusiast or pro-racer – total control and the chance to get the very best from their ability, plus the durability and longevity that Honda has long been famed for.

And of course the CRF450R has constantly evolved, with every upgrade, large or small, drawing on lessons fed back from Honda’s moto-cross racing programs throughout the world. For 2017 revolution replaced evolution. Under a total redesign headlined ‘ABSOLUTE HOLESHOT!” The world’s favorite open-class moto-crosser was effectively a brand-new machine, wielding a major power boost from a brand-new engine, plus increased grip and drive from a completely redesigned chassis.

It looked different from the CRF450Rs that had gone before, felt different and delivered a whole new experience on track. In 2018 the addition of standard-fit electric start (an option for 2017) completed the package.

But the relentless demands of motocross competition mean that, year by year, even the best bikes have to get better, and for 2019, the CRF450R is getting a straight shot of HRC works technology with major upgrades that make it faster still.

2. | CRF450R Overview

The ability to punch out of the gate first and build blistering lap times is what the CRF450R has been all about for the last two years. And for 19YM performance rises yet again; considerably more power and torque has been extracted from the engine – via HRC-led tuning of the cylinder head, intake and exhaust – without sacrificing low-RPM tractability.

3-mode HRC Launch Control is an addition, helping any rider from beginner to expert hit the mark from the starting gate every time. A shift sensor enables the use of specific ignition maps for each gear, and PGM-FI has been optimized to inject twice per cycle. Oil pump capacity has been uprated, and the clutch lifter and pressure plate redesigned.

The aluminum twin-spar frame is essentially unchanged but made slightly lighter, as has the swingarm. A new front brake caliper also shaves more vital grams. Revised oil and spring/damping settings for the 49mm Showa USD fork enhance reaction, complemented by a ‘Super Finish’ process for the rear shock’s damper, plus revised Pro-Link ratio.

New Renthal tapered handlebars can also now be adjusted forward/back on the top yoke.

All-New 2019 CRF450R Works Edition (CRF450RWE)

Homologated for racing and available in limited numbers, the CRF450RWE Works Edition includes all the improvements of this year’s CRF450R plus a special hand-ported cylinder head, black DID LT-X rims, an exclusive Yoshimura muffler, titanium nitride-coated lower fork legs and shock shaft, an RK gold chain, special ECU settings, black triple clamps, revalved suspension, a factory-spec gripper seat, and an HRC decal package. Check out more detailed pictures and information on the 2019 CRF450R Works Edition (CRF450RWE) below.

3. | Key Features / Development

3.1 | CRF450R Engine

• +2 horsepower and +1.48 ft/lb torque increase and considerably stronger from 3,000 RPM to redline
• 449cc single-cylinder engine with Unicam® cylinder head, downdraft intake tract, and electric start offer unparalleled “Absolute Holeshot” performance
• Updated cylinder-head design, with changes near the exhaust ports, achieves improved exhaust efficiency and contributes to increased power across the rev range
• Revised clutch lifter and pressure plate allow optimum oil supply to clutch plates and friction discs, resulting in enhanced durability
• New scavenge-pump design features two 12mm pumps, up from a single 16mm pump, for increased lubrication and reduced friction in the engine, improving peak performance and enhancing over-rev characteristics
• All-new piston oil jet uses five nozzle holes and a refined pattern to improve cooling efficiency and reduce knocking, enabling a precise ignition-timing setting for optimum power delivery
• Shift sensor adopted to establish an ignition map for each gear, enabling optimum running
• Utilizing the space gained by eliminating the kick starter, a new exhaust features a larger pipe diameter and optimized design at the branching location for increased power. Previously 31.8mm, the right and left pipes are now 35mm and 43mm, respectively. In addition, total tube length (from exhaust port to muffler end) is up 98mm on the right and 187mm on the left.
• Selectable HRC launch control provides a steady stream of torque for excellent performance on race starts
• Updated Standard, Smooth, and Aggressive riding modes enable easy tuning depending on rider skill or conditions

While the architecture of the 449cc four-valve Unicam engine remains essentially unchanged – apart from removal of the kick start – a host of detail changes deliver the increase in power and torque.

And while the peak boost is significant – 2 more horsepower at 9,500 RPM and 1.48 more in the torque department at 7,500 RPM – it has not been achieved at the expense of low-down performance: the strength of the 2019 CRF450R engine’s power and torque curves from 3,000 RPM up are well above the previous design, and corner-to-corner over-rev has also been enhanced.

Bore and stroke remains 96mm x 62.1mm with compression ratio of 13.5:1. Combustion chamber squish has been revised, as has the piston skirt profile, piston ring and conrod; both right and left engine cases have been optimized for strength versus weight.

A new air cleaner element base has more than double the surface area, and flows much more air as a result; revised PGM-F1 settings make use of the improved air flow, and the system now injects fuel twice per cycle. In step with the improved engine output, a revised radiator grill improves air flow for maximum radiator efficiency. A gear position sensor allows the use of three specific ignition maps for 1^st and 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th, and 5^th.

It’s not all about performance. Rock-solid reliability has always been a big factor in the CRF450R’s success. A new 5-hole piston oil jet replaces the 4-hole design and the scavenge pump, which used a single, 16mm diameter pickup drum now employs twin 12mm drums, resulting in greater capacity.

The clutch lifter and pressure plate are redesigned for improved durability. Final drive is via 13T front and a re-shaped, lighter 49T rear sprocket.

The rider controls and displays – engine stop button, EFI warning, EMSB mode button and LED indicator – are all in one place on the left handlebar:

New for 2019 on the CRF450R, HRC’s Launch Control system gives any rider the best option for a strong start and has 3 modes to choose from:

• Level 3 – 8,250 RPM, muddy conditions / novice
• Level 2 – 8,500 RPM, dry conditions / basic
• Level 1 – 9,500 RPM, dry conditions / expert

Activating HRC Launch Control is easy – to turn on, pull in the clutch and push the Start button (on the right). The LED will blink once for Level 1 selection. Push the Start button again, for 0.5s or longer, and the LED will blink twice for Level 2. Repeat the process and the LED will blink 3 times, indication Level 3 has been chosen.

Honda’s EMSB (Engine Mode Select Button) puts instant engine character adaptability at the rider’s control. 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 (like HRC Launch Control, 1 flash for Mode 1, etc). If a new map is selected the choice is also confirmed to the rider.

Mode 1 uses the standard combination of ignition and fuelling maps to present a balanced power and torque delivery. Mode 2 is more mellow in nature, giving easy-to-manage throttle feel. Mode 3 hits sharply, with aggressive and responsive power. Mode 2 and 3 can be further tailored via the existing HRC setting tool for mapping hardware and software.

How does the 2019 CRF450R stack up against the other 2019 CRF dirt bike models in the engine performance department? Here’s horsepower numbers on each of the CRF models:

• 2019 CRF50F HP – 3.1
• 2019 CRF110F HP – TBA
• 2019 CRF125F / B HP – TBA
• 2019 CRF150R HP – 23.5
• 2019 CRF230F HP – 19.0
• 2019 CRF250F HP – 22.8
• 2019 CRF250RX HP – 43.5
• 2019 CRF250R HP – 43 
• 2019 CRF450X HP – 44.3
• 2019 CRF450R HP – 60.8
• 2019 CRF450RX HP – 60.8
• 2019 CRF450L HP – 41.7
  • * The rest of the 2019 CRF model lineup list will be updated with official numbers on they are released.

3.2 | CRF450R Chassis / Suspension

• Optimized frame for improved traction and cornering feel, as well as reduced weight
• Swingarm is redesigned to be lighter and have appropriate rigidity, endowing the 2019 CRF450R with great handling and traction
• Fork uses revised settings and low-friction oil for improved performance and handling
• Revised shock linkage works with all-new swingarm to provide optimum performance over bumps
• Mimicking the race team’s setup, a new, lighter front brake caliper uses a pair of 30mm and 27mm pistons, versus identical 27mm pistons, for added braking performance
• Updated front brake hose has reduced expansion for more precise braking
• Top triple clamp has two handlebar-clamp locations for moving the handlebar back and forth by 26mm. With reversible handlebar clamp enabling an additional 10mm of adjustment from the base position, there are a total of four different handlebar positions
• New black Renthal Fatbar handlebar is positioned 15mm lower than in 2018 for a more active riding position, while also contributing to light steering feel
• Newly shaped footpegs are 20% lighter and shed mud more easily, giving the rider great feel and confidence in all riding conditions
• Lightweight, compact 1.66 gallon titanium tank keeps weight to a minimum
• Redesigned fork protectors have improved coverage
• Black rims deliver a strong presence on and off the track
• Minimal lines and gaps in the plastic panels result in a smooth surface, facilitating riding-position changes
• New front number plate design accommodates handlebar in any of the four available positions
• In-mold graphics are durable and resistant to peeling caused by washing or abrasion
• Dunlop Geomax MX3S tires offer excellent grip

The goal for the seventh generation of CRF aluminum beam frame, debuted in 2017 were clear and defined: improved cornering performance and front-end stability/traction – plus rear wheel drive – while delivering elevated levels of rider feedback and predictability.

And if the focus of YM19 revolves around more power (and its control) from the engine, the CRF450R’s chassis has also improved in step, with even better balance, turning ability and tracking through a corner. Honda shaved off 1.98 lbs (0.9kg) of weight from the 2019 CRF450R dipping its dry weight down to 237 lbs (107.6kg) and a wet curb weight of 247 lbs (112.3kg) while suspension action front and rear has been revised. Rake and trail are set at 27.4°/116mm, with wheelbase of 58.4 in. (1482mm).

The tapered twin-spar frame design has been slimmed and lightened around the swingarm pivot plates – the swingarm, too has been subtly re-shaped, is lighter and features a lower rigidity balance to improve traction and feel. The rigidity of the right and left cylinder head hangers has also been optimized. A tiny detail – that also saves 20% weight – are the footpegs, which now use a 4-web (rather than 6) internal structure to clear mud.

The fully adjustable 49mm Showa USD coil spring fork is a version of the Showa ‘factory’ fork supplied to MX race teams around the world.

The new Renthal Fatbar reduces the weight of the steering system and flexes for optimal comfort; the top yoke features two handlebar-holder locations for moving the handlebar rearward and forward by 26mm. When the holder is turned 180 degrees, the handlebar can be moved an additional 10mm from the base position, resulting in four total unique riding positions. A Bar Pad is also included.

A new twin-piston front brake caliper uses 30 and 27mm diameter pistons (the previous design used 2 x 27mm pistons). This allows for a lighter body and, along with low expansion-rate brake hose, improves brake feel and power. It works on a 260mm wave-pattern disc, matched by a rear 240mm wave-pattern disc and single-piston caliper.

Lightweight DID aluminum rims, with directly attached spoke pattern layout are now finished in black; the front is a 21 x 1.6 in, the rear a 19 x 2.15 in. Fitted as standard equipment are Dunlop’s MX3SF and MX3S soft terrain tires.

The CRF450R uses a lightweight 1.66 gal. (6.3L) titanium fuel tank. The smooth external lines of the plastics help the rider move easily, and the narrow frontal area and front mudguard directs an efficient funnel of air to the radiator – for 2019 the radiator grills have been redesigned to flow more air. The bodywork uses durable film inset graphics that cover a wide area with scratch-resistant style.

4. | CRF450RWE Details | What’s Different?

New for 2019, Honda introduces a CRF450RWE (“Works Edition”), a special model with a number of upgrades based on the bikes in the Team Honda HRC race shop. This motorcycle takes its battle with the stopwatch a giant step further, incorporating a specially designed cylinder head with factory hand-polished ports, a titanium Yoshimura slip-on muffler, and special ECU settings in the already potent CRF450R package. Sporting factory-inspired Throttle Jockey graphics and seat cover from Ken Roczen’s No. 94 race bike, the CRF450RWE has the looks to match its incredible performance.

CRF450RWE Key Features

• Unique cylinder head with factory hand-polished ports improves torque feeling from low- to midrange, especially between 5,000 and 6,000 rpm, for even quicker lap times
• Yoshimura slip-on muffler with titanium body and pipes, plus carbon fiber tail caps, exclusively designed for the CRF450RWE
• ECU settings optimize performance advantages of the Yoshimura exhaust and cylinder-head updates
• HRC launch control with special settings influenced by Ken Roczen
• Kashima fork-tube coating reduces friction and improves handling performance. Developed by Miyaki Company of Japan, Kashima coating is a special treatment for hard-anodized finishes that fills the micro-pores on the surface of hard-anodized aluminum for better lubrication and reduced stiction
• Titanium nitride coating on fork legs enhances suspension feel
• Shock shaft processed with Super Finisher and coated with titanium nitride for superior performance
• Stronger D.I.D LT-X black rims with special laser-engraved logo
• High-performance gold RK chain
• Throttle Jockey factory Team Honda HRC graphics and seat cover for premium look and enhanced grip during acceleration
• Top and bottom triple clamps in black complement high-end look

CRF450RWE Engine / Drivetrain

• 449cc single-cylinder engine with Unicam® cylinder head, downdraft intake tract, and electric start offer unparalleled “Absolute Holeshot” performance
• Updated cylinder-head design, with changes near the exhaust ports, achieves improved exhaust efficiency and contributes to increased power across the rev range
• Revised clutch lifter and pressure plate allow optimum oil supply to clutch plates and friction discs, resulting in enhanced durability
• New scavenge-pump design features two 12mm pumps, up from a single 16mm pump, for increased lubrication and reduced friction in the engine, improving peak performance and enhancing over-rev characteristics
• All-new piston oil jet uses five nozzle holes and a refined pattern to improve cooling efficiency and reduce knocking, enabling a precise ignition-timing setting for optimum power delivery
• Shift sensor adopted to establish an ignition map for each gear, enabling optimum running
• Utilizing the space gained by eliminating the kick starter, a new exhaust features a larger pipe diameter and optimized design at the branching location for increased power. Previously 31.8mm, the right and left pipes are now 35mm and 43mm, respectively. In addition, total tube length (from exhaust port to muffler end) is up 98mm on the right and 187mm on the left.
• Selectable HRC launch control provides a steady stream of torque for excellent performance on race starts
• Updated Standard, Smooth, and Aggressive riding modes enable easy tuning depending on rider skill or conditions

CRF450RWE Chassis / Suspension

• Optimized frame for improved traction and cornering feel, as well as reduced weight
• Swingarm is redesigned to be lighter and have appropriate rigidity, endowing the 2019 CRF450R with great handling and traction
• Fork uses revised settings and low-friction oil for improved performance and handling
• Revised shock linkage works with all-new swingarm to provide optimum performance over bumps
• Mimicking the race team’s setup, a new, lighter front brake caliper uses a pair of 30mm and 27mm pistons, versus identical 27mm pistons, for added braking performance
• Updated front brake hose has reduced expansion for more precise braking
• Top triple clamp has two handlebar-clamp locations for moving the handlebar back and forth by 26mm. With reversible handlebar clamp enabling an additional 10mm of adjustment from the base position, there are a total of four different handlebar positions
• New black Renthal Fatbar handlebar is positioned 15mm lower than in 2018 for a more active riding position, while also contributing to light steering feel
• Newly shaped footpegs are 20% lighter and shed mud more easily, giving the rider great feel and confidence in all riding conditions
• Lightweight, compact 1.66 gallon titanium tank keeps weight to a minimum
• Redesigned fork protectors have improved coverage
• Black rims deliver a strong presence on and off the track
• Minimal lines and gaps in the plastic panels result in a smooth surface, facilitating riding-position changes
• New front number plate design accommodates handlebar in any of the four available positions
• In-mold graphics are durable and resistant to peeling caused by washing or abrasion
• Dunlop Geomax MX3S tires offer excellent grip

5. | CRF450R Photo Gallery / Pictures

5.1 | CRF450RWE Works Edition Photo Gallery / Pictures

6. | Technical CRF450R Specifications

6.1 | Technical CRF450RWE Specifications

* Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel—ready to ride Specifications subject to change.

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