Honda's four-stroke competition motocrosser to displace 450cc

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- February 1, 2001

Torrance, CA -- The Honda Racing Corporation has disclosed additional details about the prototype four-stroke competition motocross motorcycle that will soon be racing in the U.S.

Called the CRF450R, the racing bike features a single cylinder four-stroke 449cc engine with a bore and stroke of 96.0mm x 62.1mm. The four-valve cylinder head utilizes a single overhead camshaft that acts directly on the two intake valves and, via a forked rocker arm, the two exhaust valves. The benefit of this design is a reduction of mass (elimination of one camshaft and rocker arm assembly) while maintaining accurate valve timing.

Like Honda's high tech CR125R and CR250R, the CRF450R uses a specially designed twin-spar aluminum frame and swingarm. Dry weight is 102kg or approximately 225lbs.

The CRF450R is scheduled to begin competition in the American Motorcyclist Association's Outdoor National Motocross series beginning May 13 at Glen Helen Raceway in San Bernardino, California. American Honda will announce the rider at a future date.

Information concerning the highly anticipated production version of the CRF450R has not been disclosed.

Media inquiries: Peter terHorst, 310.783.3745

EDITOR'S NOTE: No images are or additional specifications are available at this time.

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