Honda Australia has revealed initial information on the 2013-spec CRF 450R motocrosser, which thanks to help from former AMA Supercross champion, Jeremy McGrath, is expected to take competition to new heights.

Since its initial creation in 2002, the CRF 450R has constantly evolved with the key aim of helping its riders to achieve racing victory. Jeremy McGrath, seven times AMA Supercross champion and legend in the sport, had heavy involvement in the development and design of the 2013 CRF 450R, which incorporates a refined engine, a brand new frame and other major enhancements.

The 2013 CRF 450R will feature a brand new, sixth generation aluminium frame combined with dual mufflers to achieve outstanding mass centralization. A newly designed swingarm makes major enhancements to vertical rigidity while maintaining horizontal rigidity, resulting in excellent agility and improved traction when cornering at high speeds. In addition to this, the front forks use compressed air instead of coil springs, resulting in reduced weight as well as reduced friction and in turn, improved handling.

The CR's 449cc, liquid-cooled 4-stroke SOHC engine has had major modifications for 2013, including newly designed intake and the exhaust ports, which combined with transmission updates, offers increased torque
at low-to-mid rpm, while maintaining high-rpm output.

A change in the piston head shape has increased the compression ratio and ensured more torque and power across the range, while the optimization of the valve timing and cylinder head port shape has increased charging efficiency of the air-fuel mixture. Additionally, the inertial mass of the ACG flywheel is around 11% larger in order to enhance torque feel at low speeds.

Styling is largely unchanged for 2013, utilising the same red and white colour scheme, but rearranging the colour balance to express the fresh character of the next-generation CRF 450R.

The 2013 CRF 450R is due for Australian release in late 2012, and will be joined by an updated CRF 250R and all-new CRF 110F. More information regarding price and availability will be available on www.hondamotorcycles.com.au in the coming months.