last year, but every bit as accurate and even more
planted – particularly in the faster turns. The agility
is still there though (the and I’ve ridden few bikes in
my life that give the confidence of this new Honda
entering a turn – be it tight or open. Some of the
cornering confidence comes from the exceptionally
nice feeling, new Showa wire spring fork – which are
1mm bigger in diameter from last year to 49mm.
The plushness and general control this fork delivers
is a highlight. The shock was great too, perhaps the
spring rate was a little soft in an ideal world for my
weight, but I can tell you the performance is better
than most on the market. Overall, it’s pretty plush,
confidence inspiring and with decent balance.
The brakes on the Honda are now at the pointy
end of the field too. Nissin has done an excellent job
with the stopping feel, which is super easy
to modulate, but the power is there too.
A little more lever pressure is probably required
up front to stop super-hard compared to a KTM,
but the power is definitely there, it just has a
more progressive action. So I think the feel is
probably superior on a slick surface for example.
The rear brake is just great on all surfaces.
So, it’s been a while coming, but Honda has done
a great job and it was worth the wait. While all new,
the Honda CRF450R has retained the excellent
user-friendly, non-tiring and high traction-to-the-
ground aspects of the old engine, but now it hauls
arse at the top-end too. The handling, steering and
suspension, plus the ergonomics are all markedly
improved, the engine is great – this is an impressive
package. Of course, electric start with a lightweight
battery is now an option with the CRF450RX
too, which truly does complete the line-up.
KIWI RIDER 55