2005 Honda CRF450X and CRF250X - First Look

The newest addition to Honda's fleet of off-road bikes has arrived, the 2005 Honda CRF450X. The hard-hitting big-bore motocrosser has hopped the fence to the off-road world. The completely new model comes complete with an electric start, odometer, spark arrester, head/tail lights, sidestand, wide ratio transmission, skidplate and engine guards. The rear wheel is 18-inches to protect against flats, and the T-ring sealed chain is narrower and stronger than an O-ring chain. The sidestand is integrated into the left footpeg bracket and can be easily removed for competition.

The powerful Unicam engine is designed to produce power over a wider range, and the carburetor features a throttle position sensor (TPS) that helps maintain linear throttle response throughout the rpm range. The suspension also received adjustments to increase performance and durability. The front and rear wheel both feature large-diameter axles and bearings to optimize rigidity for serious off-road riding.

2005 Honda CRF250X

The changes to Honda's CRF250X are minimal. All it received were new graphics and a lightweight rear hub. But what more did it really need? After all, last year's Honda CRF250X was our 2004 Bike of the Year!

For more on Honda's new 2005 CRF450X, look for the full story in an upcoming issue of Dirt Rider Magazine.