2023 HONDA DIRT MODELS ANNOUNCED
Jumping into the 2023 release melee is Honda , with the Big Red Wing also celebrating 50 Years of the CRF family in 2023 . CRF450R / RX Headlining the range for the 2023 model year are the big guns , with the CRF450R and 450RX joined by a 50th Anniversary variant of the 450R . Honda has taken feedback from its HRC racers to help steer development of the new CRF450R . As a result , Honda claims that the ‘ 23 bikes are easier to ride faster , for longer . Physical developments include new , narrower intake ports , longer air funnel , smaller 44mm diameter throttle body and revised , factory rider-spec cam timing that help the CRF450R engine deliver over 10 % more low-rpm torque . Honda claims that this is complemented by an increased , and smoother , low-down power delivery , helping the CRF450R drive harder through the corners ; we ’ ll have to wait until tester Jock has some time aboard to know for sure . The rear muffler is also more durable through the use of tougher aluminium , but with no weight gain .
Controlling the power increase , revised frame rigidity allows for an increase in the rear spring rate and damping for improved rider feedback , control and drive over rutted ground . Front tyre grip is improved and , overall , the CRF450R is more stable and turns more quickly with better suspension reaction and bump absorption . The CRF450RX gets the same updates as its motocross sibling , but is cross-county prepped with an 8-litre plastic fuel tank , 18- inch rear wheel , specific
ECU settings for ignition / injection , forged aluminium sidestand and knuckle guards .
Elsinore-inspired colours No new year model drop would be complete without a fresh look in the form of new graphics . For Honda ’ s 2023 models the graphics feature a redesign of the iconic HRC logo , representing the expansion of HRC ’ s activities into automobile racing , while the CRF450R 50th Anniversary marks half a century since the CR250M Elsinore took to the track . Paying tribute to the mighty CRs of the 1980s , it comes complete with signature features including the blue seat , white number boards , gold wheels and handlebar , metallic grey top / bottom yokes and unique radiator shroud graphics .
CRF250R / RX While the CRF250R and CRF250RX remain mechanically unchanged for 2023 , both bikes also gain the new graphics kit with the HRC logo proudly displayed on the shrouds . Blue Wing Honda has confirmed New Zealand will be getting a limited number of the CRF450R 50th Anniversary , with pricing and dates not confirmed at the time of writing .
KIWI RIDER 99