Today at the Assen TT road-racing circuit, Honda proudly presented to the gathered press, the new 2019 CRF line-up which includes two new models and three updated machines. Although details have been available online, this was a chance to see all the bikes in the flesh and witness first-hand how Honda is cementing their commitment to the dirt-riding enthusiast.
Taking place at the hospitality area of the team Honda Redmoto Assomotor, the press were walked through all the details of the new machinery by HRC World Motocross Adviser Roger Harvey and Honda Europe Off-Road Manager Gordon Crockard, with various Honda riders also on hand to give their opinions on the machinery they’ll be riding in the next year’s world championship.
There was also a special presentation to EMX250 champion Mathys Boisrame, who wrapped up his title at the previous round in Bulgaria a few weeks ago. Mathys’ championship winning CRF250R was then revealed, showing off the traditional gold plate that is used by series champions.
After that the bikes were left on display so that everyone could take photos, ask questions and generally get a feel for this next generation of Honda off-road machinery.
Model Details:
CRF450L **NEW MODEL**
Using the CRF450R moto-crosser as a base, Honda’s new dual-purpose motorcycle has a tough, lightweight chassis built to find all the available grip, powered by an engine that delivers strong, usable power right from the bottom. While offering maximum enjoyment for the off-road hobby rider, the CRF450L is also fully street legal and street-ready, with sidestand, increased fuel tank volume and all-LED lighting. Durable, high quality parts and long service intervals – with a first major service at 32,000km – aim for a worry-free riding and ownership experience.
CRF450R
The CRF450R receives a major performance boost: 1.8kW more power and 2Nm more torque, plus stronger power delivery throughout the rev range thanks to a revised cylinder head, intake and exhaust. It also gets 3-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 Fat Bar handlebar which sits on a new top yoke adjustable for four positions.
CRF450RX
Like the CRF450R moto-cross machine, the cross country CRF450RX receives a major boost of top-end power and torque for its engine, and 3-level HRC Launch Control. While still featuring 18-inch rear wheel and 8.5-litre fuel tank, the chassis now offers a revised rigidity balance, new suspension settings, plus Renthal Fat Bar handlebar with 4-way adjustability and new black rims.
CRF250R
One year after a full model change, the CRF250R gets a range of new performance, utility and aesthetic updates. Bottom and mid-range torque output gets a major boost thanks to 2mm smaller throttle body, and revised cam, intake and exhaust profiles. Like the 450s, the CRF250R also receives 3-level HRC Launch Control to add to the choice of 3 riding modes. A new twin-piston front brake caliper, adjustable Renthal Fatbars and black rims round out the updates.
CRF250RX **NEW MODEL**
The new CRF250RX arrives to add yet another dimension to Honda’s off-road range. Mirroring the CRF450RX, the new machine takes the CRF250R as a base, with revisions such as 18-inch wheel, 8.5-litre tank and softer suspension that adapt it for its role as the ideal closed course cross-country machine. It inherits the moto-crosser’s upgrade for 2019, with rock-solid bottom-end torque, 3-level HRC Launch Control, new front brake caliper, Renthal Fatbars and black rims.
With these five machines, Honda underlines its commitment to continuously evolve and reinforce its CRF line-up to offer an off-road-focussed machine for every type of dirt-riding enthusiast.
