The 2005 Honda CRF450X has arrived, and not a moment too soon. Honda took their big-bore motocrosser and added just enough stuff to it to make it a full-fledged off-roader. The bike comes complete with an electric start, odometer, spark arrester, head/tail lights, removable sidestand, wide ratio transmission, skidplate and skid plates.
Getting rid of the l9 inch rear wheel made for many more options and the 18-incher protects against flats better. Adding to the off-roading qualities is a new chain with a T-ring, instead of an O-ring. This chain is narrower and stronger than an O-ring chain.
The 450X features a Unicam engine and is designed to produce power over a wider range that the MX version. Adding to the broader power curve, the carburetor features a throttle position sensor (TPS) that contributes to throttle response.
Designed for off-road, the suspension also received adjustments to increase performance and durability. The suspension is much more supple at both ends to handle the demands of enduro and off-road competition. Both wheels have large-diameter axles and bearings to handle the increased loads. The MSRP is $6,999 and the claimed weight is 255 pounds. The CRF450X will be available February of 2005.