DIRT NEWS
EVOLUTION FOR 2022 HONDA CRF450R AND RX
A fter the massive changes that came with the 2021 CRF450 range , Honda could have taken it easy for 2022 with a simple “ bold new graphics ” approach , but instead Big Red is delivering further small refinements to its bigbore MXer and Cross-Country machines . While the chassis and engine remains the same physical units that debuted in this year ’ s models , the new 2022 models of the CRF450R and CRF450X both receive updates in terms of ECU settings designed to smooth out power delivery , as well as an overhaul of damping for the Showa supplied suspension , with both bikes going for a more stiffer setup than the 2021 models . Honda says the re-valve was undertaken to improve the balance between front and rear , and overall control .
CRF450R The CRF450R utilises a Showa 49mm USD coil spring AF2 fork , which is based on the ‘ factory ’ unit supplied to MX race teams in the Japanese championship . Through the 21MY update , the fork received 5mm more stroke , to 310mm , and increased rigidity for its axle clamps . For 22MY the low-speed shim-stack has been re-valved to generate firmer settings for both compression and rebound damping . Oil volume reduces 8cc to 380cc and there are now 13 adjustment positions ( rather than 15 ) for rebound , with 15 for compression , as before . A complete re-valve of the Showa MKE AF2 rear shock ’ s low-mid- and high-speed shim stack delivers a firmer overall setting for compression damping . There are now 11 adjustment
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