Honda’s CRF450R hasn’t been at a loss for power in recent years. Quite the opposite, in fact, as it cranked out the most peak horsepower and torque in the class in 2019 and 2021, along with the most peak horsepower of all 450 motocross bikes in 2020. Last year, it was top three in both categories.
For 2023, Big Red reduced its flagship motocrosser’s throttle body diameter from 46mm to 44mm in order to create a smoother power delivery at low speeds. Engineers also made the intake port shape narrower and the intake funnel longer, both to improve engine response and torque. Camshaft profile was altered to further increase torque.
Related: 2022 Honda CRF450R Long Haul Review
With a Dunlop D404 street tire mounted on its rear wheel, Honda’s 450cc motocross bike spun the drum on our in-house Dynojet 250i rear-wheel dynamometer. Although it fell to fifth in peak horsepower with 52.5 hp at 9,100 rpm, the CRF450R shot back up to first in maximum torque with 35.1 lb.-ft. at 6,600 rpm. Regardless of where it stacks up in terms of peak figures on the Dirt Rider dyno, you won’t hear test riders complaining the current-generation CRF450R lacks high-rpm power. It’s still a fire-breather when the revs are up.
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