Honda launches new 450

By Réhann Coetzee

 

Honda used its CRF450R motocross bike as the base of its new street-legal CRF450L. It is a lightweight setup powered by an engine that delivers strong power from low in the rev range.

The CRF450L looks like a race-bred machine, but it has additions and modifications to make it both street legal and, as Honda says, “supremely useable in a trail environment”.

Honda says the journey from full-race to road-legal trail was a detailed one for the CRF450L. Road legality required the engine to gain Euro4 compliance, while from a longevity and usability viewpoint, the power output and character needed careful attention.

It’s still a CRF450R; just one that’s quieter, both mechanically from the chassis and engine, as well as its new exhaust. Both fuelling and ignition maps are now managed by a lambda sensor. Compression ratio has been lowered and crank mass increased for improved drivability. The gearbox is a 6-speed – for longer legs on the road – and a cush drive has been added to the 18-inch rear wheel.

The plastics are lifted directly from the CRF450R and all lighting is LED, with the front headlight in particular throwing out a penetrating beam. Increased volume for the titanium fuel tank adds range. Items have also been fitted that make the CRF450L ready to purchase as a licensed, road-going machine – such as a speedometer and hooter.

 

Technically speaking: Honda CRF450L

Engine: 449cc, single-cylinder, single-overhead cam, 4 valves

Power: not available

Gears: 6 speed, chain

Fuel tank: 7,6 litres

Seat height: 940mm

Tyres: 80/100/21 front, 120/80/18 rear

Brakes: single disks front and rear

Wet weight: 131kg

Price: R73 250