More four-stroke fun from Honda
2011-05-09 07:20
JUST ADD MUD: New graphics signal the arrival of Honda 2012 model year CRF four-stroke off-road racing bikes.
Launched back in 2002 as a replacement to the legendary XR-line, Honda’s CRF-series four-stoke off-road bikes have established themselves as dirt-jumpers par excellence.
For the 2012 season (following the American tradition of predating model year updates a numeral ahead), three of Honda’s CRF models - CRF450R, CRF250R and CRF150RB - will feature upgrades, gaining modifications and suspension modifications primarily aimed at improving traction and handling.
The two bigger-engined bikes also have their standard footpegs replaced by wider items.
PRIMED FOR DIRTY WEEKEND FUN
Tallying the changes from the top the CRF450R features more rigid fork outer sleeves and a new lightweight Honda progressive steering damper; Honda’s engineers say improved stability (and more accurate steering) result due to this change.
The mid-range CRF250R’s suite of upgrades are more comprehensive. Its engine features an all-new cylinder head (turning a new camshaft) for improved mid-range power, enabling CRF250R riders access to enhanced throttle response at low to medium engine speeds thanks to a new 46mm throttle body.
Like its bigger CRF450R sibling, the 250-class bike gains improved suspension (a new Pro-Link rear linkage for enhanced traction) and also features wider footpegs to ensure optimal rider confidence when setting up for jumps or railing a berm. Dunlop’s MX51 off-road tyres ensure total confidence in a variety of weather conditions.
Honda’s smaller CRF150RB’s model year 2012 updates focus on enhancing the durability of its four-stroke engine, with a better spread of torque across the rev range. The small four-stroke off-roader is now even better suited to abuse across broken terrain too, with Honda engineers having added a 37mm inverted Showa fork unit up front and revised Pro-Link rear suspension (similar to the CRF250R) at the rear.
Local availability of the new line of CRF bikes will follow-on from international roll-out and we’ll be sure to keep you updated as to exactly when you can place orders for Honda’s latest four-stroke off-road toys.
