Honda CRF450R
The 2005 CRF450R is not only a better bike than the 2004 model, in many respects it is significantly better. We won’t bore you, yet again, with all of the technical specifications and changes. Take a look at our article on June 1, 2004 for that information. Let’s talk about riding the new CRF.
The new generation aluminum frame is significantly slimmer than the 2004 frame. The 2005 model has lost a claimed 3.5 pounds, but the smaller frame, and the way the weight is carried, makes the 2005 model feel at least 10 pounds lighter.
The most dramatic difference for 2005 involves handling. With a slightly steeper rake, and an effective reduction in fork offset of 2mm, the 2005 CRF450R corners better than any big four-stroke we have ever ridden. In fact, it isn’t even close. This bike carves corners like a much smaller machine. The front end bites better than prior models (without changing the offset of the stock triple clamps) and the slimmer, lighter-feeling chassis makes it far easier to dip the bike in corners.
Honda CRF450R
Honda CRF450R
Honda CRF450R
Honda CRF450R
Honda CRF450R
Honda CRF450R Suspension, Brakes and Tires
Suspension Front: 48mm inverted KYB Air-Oil-Separate (AOS) with rebound and compression damping adjustability; 12.2 inches travel
Rear: Pro-Link KYB single shock with spring preload, rebound damping adjustability, and compression damping adjustment separated into low-speed and high-speed; 12.5 inches travel
Brakes Front: Single 240mm disc with twin-piston caliper
Rear: Single 240mm disc
Tires Front: 80/100-21
Rear: 120/80-19
Wheelbase: 58.7 inches
Rake (Caster angle): 26° 54′
Trail: 114.5mm (4.5 inches)
Seat Height: 37.6 inches
Ground Clearance: 13.1 inches
Fuel Capacity: 1.5 gallons
