Ups
- Top-spec components differentiate it from the base model
- Most powerful engine of all 450 motocross bikes
- Combination of its engine performance and synchronized suspension/chassis contribute to its great handling.
Downs
- A higher-spec machine comes with a high price tag.
- Limited availability
Verdict
The CRF450RWE offers the highest horsepower figures among the 450 motocross class. Its up-spec components and suspension/handling differentiate it from its stock form, but its high price and limited run mean it will be difficult to acquire.
Overview
The Honda CRF450RWE is the higher-spec sibling of Honda’s CRF450R and is the most expensive motocross bike on the market. With that said, the RWE is designed for motocross enthusiasts looking for a limited-edition machine with trick parts and updates that differentiate it from the standard motocross bike.
Updates for 2021
Updates seen on the stock CRF450R, which were also executed on the WE, include a lightened twin-spar aluminum frame, narrower swingarm, altered Showa suspension components, engine updates to the decompression system, intake, exhaust system (which includes a switch from two mufflers to one), a hydraulically actuated clutch, and new bodywork and seat. The CRF450RWE also has a hand-ported cylinder head, updated ECU settings, a Yoshimura RS-12 exhaust system, Twin Air air filter, and Hinson Racing clutch basket and cover for MY21.
Pricing and Variants
This year’s CRF450RWE has an MSRP of $12,380 which makes it the most expensive motocross bike on the market.
Competition
Competition would include the other special-edition models of 450cc motocrossers including the Husqvarna FC 450 Rockstar Edition and KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition. Although it does not feature mechanical upgrades over the standard model, Yamaha YZ450F Monster Energy Yamaha Racing Edition fits the bill for those who want a racebike look right off the showroom floor. Even the Kawasaki KX 450, GasGas MC 450F, and Suzuki RM-Z450 could be considered competitors.
Powertrain: Engine, Transmission, and Performance
What motor cranks out the most horsepower seen in the 450 motocross class? It’s the CRF450RWE’s 449cc SOHC four-stroke. This engine measured an impressive 56.7 hp at 9,600 rpm and 34.8 pound-feet at 7,100 rpm on our in-house dyno. We wrote in our review that, thanks in part to its updates, it is smoother, makes more overall power, is noticeably quieter, and is easier for riders to manage compared to the CRF450R. Its power delivery is smoother off the bottom and builds steadily throughout the rpm range.
Handling
The latest-generation frame is claimed to reduce lateral rigidity for improved cornering performance and stability. During testing, we found the 49mm Showa coil-spring fork and Showa shock work in unison with the chassis. The big news regarding the 18mm shock is that it is 2mm larger in diameter than the stock CRF450R and offers more control and holdup because it displaces more oil in the shock body.
Brakes
Identical to the standard CRF450R in this department, braking is handled by Nissin calipers with 260mm and 240mm discs, front and rear. The front disc size is the same as KTM’s 450 SX-F Factory Edition and Husqvarna’s FC 450 Rockstar Edition, while the rear is the same diameter as Yamaha’s YZ450F Monster Energy Yamaha Racing Edition. The CRF450RWE’s brakes aren’t the strongest in the class, but they stop the bike in short order.
Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG
Real-world mpg is not provided. Its 1.7-gallon fuel tank splits the capacity differences of its 450 motocross bike competitors.
Ergonomics: Comfort and Utility
Renthal Kevlar grips make the bike feel more personalized while the restructured bodywork offers a slimmer profile than the previous generation. The Throttle Jockey gripper seat and bodywork graphics are exclusive to the CRF450RWE. The ‘WE has a Cycle World-measured seat height of 37.4 inches and measured wet weight of 243 pounds.
Electronics
The ‘WE features an electric starter, three map options that can be toggled via the Engine Mode Select Button (EMSB), and three levels of Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC).
Warranty and Maintenance Coverage
The CRF450RWE does not have a warranty.
Quality
You want quality? The CRF450RWE delivers with a slew of high-end parts, most notably the Yoshimura full titanium exhaust system, D.I.D rims, gold RK chain, Team Honda HRC Throttle Jockey graphics, and more.
2021 Honda CRF450RWE Claimed Specifications
| MSRP: | $12,380 |
| Engine: | 449cc, SOHC, liquid-cooled single-cylinder; 4-valve |
| Bore x Stroke: | 96.0 x 62.1mm |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 5-speed/chain |
| Fuel Delivery: | Electronic fuel injection w/ 46mm throttle body |
| Clutch: | Wet, multiplate; hydraulic actuation |
| Engine Management/Ignition: | DC-CDI |
| Frame: | Twin-spar aluminum |
| Front Suspension: | 49mm Showa coil-spring fork, compression damping and rebound damping adjustable; 12.2 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | Showa shock, spring preload, high-/low-speed compression damping, and rebound damping adjustable; 12.4 in. travel |
| Front Brake: | Nissin 2-piston caliper, 260mm disc |
| Rear Brake: | Nissin 1-piston caliper, 240mm disc |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | D.I.D DirtStar LT-X; 21 in. / 19 in. |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | Dunlop Geomax MX33; 80/100-21 / 120/80-19 |
| Rake/Trail: | 27.1°/4.5 in. |
| Wheelbase: | 58.3 in. |
| Ground Clearance: | 13.2 in. |
| Seat Height: | 38.0 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 1.7 gal. |
| Wet Weight: | 244 lb. |
| Contact: | powersports.honda.com |
Cycle World Tested Specifications
| Seat Height: | 37.4 in. |
| Wet Weight: | 243 lb. |
| Rear-Wheel Horsepower: | 56.7 hp @ 9,600 rpm |
| Rear-Wheel Torque: | 34.8 lb.-ft. @ 7,100 rpm |
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com