KIWI RIDER 06 2018 VOL.1 | Page 80

HONDA 2019 DIRT RANGE H onda has announced updates for its CRF450R, CRF450RX and CRF250R models, as well as two exciting new models for its 2019 range. CRF450L *NEW* Using the CRF450R MX machine as a base, Honda has answered the wishes of many trail riders with its new CRF450L. This is an all-new new road legal trail machine with side-stand, increased fuel tank volume and LED lighting. Long service intervals will be a big draw with the first major service at 32,000km. CRF250RX *NEW* The CRF250RX mirrors the CRF450RX, but with the CRF250R as its base, with revisions including an 18-inch wheel, 8.5-litre tank and softer suspension to adapt it for its role as a cross-country machine. It inherits the motocrosser’s upgrade for 2019, with better bottom-end torque (see below for more), three-level HRC Launch Control, new front brake caliper, Renthal Fatbars and black rims. CRF450R The CRF450R receives a performance boost with 1.8kW more power and 2Nm more torque, plus a stronger power delivery throughout the rev range thanks to a revised cylinder head, intake and exhaust. It also gets three-level HRC Launch Control and durability upgrades. The chassis features revised suspension settings, redesigned front brake caliper, detailed weight-saving updates (shaving 0.9kg) and Renthal Fatbar handlebar which sits on a new four- position adjustable top yoke. CRF450RX As with the CRF450R, CRF450RX gets a boost of top-end power and torque for its engine, CRF250RX 80KIWI RIDER CRF450L and three-level HRC Launch Control. The 18-inch rear wheel, 8.5-litre fuel tank machine gets a revised rigidity balance and new suspension settings as well as the Renthal Fatbar handlebar with four-way adjustability and black rims. CRF250R If you read our test of the 2018 250R you’ll know we thought it was a little light in the bottom end but Honda says it’s taken care of this with the bottom and mid-range torque getting a desired boost thanks to a 2mm smaller throttle body, as well as revised intake and exhaust cam profiles. Like the 450, the 250 also gets the three-level HRC Launch Control, new front brake caliper, adjustable bars and black rims. CRF450RX