Honda CRF450X specifications, dimensions and price

Honda CRF450X

How the CRF450X differs from the CRF450R

The CRF450X takes the motocross bike's engine and turns it toward the trail. Visordown says Honda's engineers lopped off peak power and added noticeable low-down torque and driveability, and some riders found the suspension firm for trail riding while praising the grip in mud. Total Motorcycle lists a twin-spar aluminum chassis made wider than a standard motocross frame to fit the six-speed transmission, a twin-piston front caliper with a 260mm disc, a lithium-ion battery with more capacity than the CRF450R's to power the lights, and the bike's 50-state off-road legal status.

Who the CRF450X is for

The CRF450X is a fast off-road bike for a strong rider. Visordown notes that anyone who knows off-road bikes knows Honda's CRF450 motocrosser is horrifically fast and frightening to ride. The X softens that with more usable torque, but it still carries a 275 lb curb weight and a tall 37.9 in seat.

It has a headlight and side stand for trail use but is not a street-legal dual-sport. Riders who want a plated Honda should look at the CRF300L Rally.

Fuel tank, trail features and how it feels to ride

The CRF450X carries more fuel and trail equipment than the motocross bike. Total Motorcycle lists a 2.0 gal resin fuel tank with a cut-off valve in the cap that minimizes spillage if the bike is tipped over, a six-speed gearbox, an 18-inch rear wheel and California Green Sticker compliance. So it is ready for everything from desert races to tight singletrack.

An easily accessible electronic-component box on the left of the frame simplifies maintenance.

Visordown was surprised: the tester expected a terrifying bike and found the CRF450X not as scary as assumed, with a more civilized, user-friendly air that will donk along in a higher gear. The suspension felt firm to some riders on the trail, the grip in mud was unbelievable and power is never more than a throttle tweak away. Visordown's older test quoted a dry weight of 113 kg.

CRF450X against the WR450F, WR250F and KTM 500 EXC-F

Yamaha's WR450F is the direct rival, at $10,499 and 256 lb against the Honda's $9,999 and 275 lb, and Yamaha's WR250F is a smaller 250cc alternative at $9,199. KTM's 500 EXC-F is the plated dual-sport option at $13,499. The Honda is the cheapest of the group and the heaviest of the two Yamahas.