IF DIRTBIKES get your motor running, but you want the versatility of a highway rider, the new CRF450L might be for you.
According to Honda, the street-legal dirtbike will be released to dealerships over the next few weeks.
On release Honda said CRF450L was a step up from other dual-sport bikes, brinign together the handling, power and features of its best off-road machines.
“This is something much more, a true enduro-to-road machine,” Honda said.
“ It features a powerful 449cc Unicam engine, twin-spar aluminium CRF chassis, six-speed transmission and premium suspension.”
Honda said the fuel injected engine combines the best of single and double overhead cam designs.
“The configuration contributes to a compact engine that saves weight over a comparable dual-overhead-camshaft motor and permits a narrow included valve angle,” it said.
“This flattens the combustion chamber to facilitate ignition flame propagation, allowing a high compression ratio.
“Since less space is taken up in the cylinder head, the camshaft sits lower in the head for a more compact engine and a lower centre of gravity.”
Honda said the CRF450L is fully street legal and performance parts are available for serious off-road competitors.
“The CRF450L has a six-speed gearbox that gives riders a low gear perfect for tight, slow situations and a top gear that’s tall enough for highway riding,” it said.
”The electric start ensures trouble-free starting in all conditions and drives the clutch side of the crankshaft to provide superior lubrication to starter gears while producing a narrow engine with a short, strong crank.”