Honda CRF450R 2020 vs. Honda CRF250R 2021

The Honda CRF450R model year 2020 and the Honda CRF250R model year 2021 are both motocross bikes designed for off-road racing. While they share some similarities in terms of their technical specifications, they also have distinct differences that set them apart.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the Honda CRF450R 2020 is equipped with a larger bore of 96 mm and stroke of 62.1 mm, resulting in a displacement of 449.7 ccm. It has a compression ratio of 13.5 and features fuel injection and an electric starter. On the other hand, the Honda CRF250R 2021 has a smaller bore of 79 mm and stroke of 50.9 mm, resulting in a displacement of 249.4 ccm. It has a slightly higher compression ratio of 13.9 and also features fuel injection and an electric starter. Both bikes have a single cylinder and operate on a 4-stroke engine.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature an upside-down telescopic fork in the front and a swing arm with a monoshock in the rear. The front suspension on both bikes is provided by Showa, a renowned brand in the industry. However, the Honda CRF450R 2020 has a Pro-Link shock mount in the rear suspension, while the Honda CRF250R 2021 has a deflection shock mount.

Honda CRF450R 2020

When it comes to the chassis, both bikes have an aluminum frame, but they differ in their frame type. The Honda CRF450R 2020 has a twin-tube frame, while the Honda CRF250R 2021 has a double cradle frame. The rake angle is also different, with the CRF450R having a steeper rake of 62.6 degrees compared to the CRF250R's 27.5 degrees. However, both bikes have the same trail measurement of 116 mm.

In terms of braking, both bikes have a front brake with a diameter of 260 mm, providing ample stopping power.

Moving on to the dimensions and weights, both bikes have a similar wheelbase, with the CRF450R measuring at 1482 mm and the CRF250R at 1486 mm. The seat height of the CRF450R is slightly higher at 960 mm compared to the CRF250R's 957 mm. Additionally, the CRF450R has a slightly higher kerb weight of 112.3 kg compared to the CRF250R's 108 kg.

Honda CRF250R 2021

In terms of strengths, the Honda CRF450R 2020 is praised for its excellent handling characteristics, equipped with numerous electronic features, and a chassis that is perfectly tuned for hobby pilots. It also boasts a hydraulic clutch, which is a desirable feature for many riders. On the other hand, the Honda CRF250R 2021 is known for its strong engine, balanced ergonomics, playful handling, and wide range of uses, making it suitable for beginners.

However, both bikes have their weaknesses. The Honda CRF450R 2020 has a chassis that may be a little too soft for really fast riders in the basic setting. Additionally, there have been complaints about the routing of the hydraulic hose coupling. On the other hand, the Honda CRF250R 2021 has been criticized for some detail work on the exhaust being unclean.

In conclusion, the Honda CRF450R 2020 and the Honda CRF250R 2021 are both high-performance motocross bikes with their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The CRF450R offers excellent handling and electronic features, while the CRF250R has a strong engine and versatile usability. Riders should consider their own preferences and skill level when choosing between these two models.