I figure it's been long enough now since I was here laying out very bold predictions about future models, of which most were very close to spot on in what actually occurred.

Now it's time for Honda to take the next step in the 450r's development...

Everyone has a newer 450, many have 50" wide versions, as well as EFI and more exotic frame materials....

Honda is listening right now, they know that while they are behind everyone's stock machines, they are still a favorite amongst racers and very effective once modded for racing.

In the desert racing world, it seemed like every time Honda was directly involved with a team, they won...hell they won Baja with a Rincon they modded, so they know how to build a proper quad.

So what's next for the 450...here's TPR's perspective, some may agree, some disagree, others probably don't care....

Frame: It won't be mild steel. Easy to say that the first company to make an alloy motocross frame would go aluminum, but Honda is conservative and also sees that KTM made a real light quad using chrome-moly, which is easier for the average welder to repair....That said, you will see a frame that may be a hybrid frame, something similar to the Yamaha but different. "bolt together" frame that goes beyond the Can-Am and Yamaha.

Engine: Obviously a modified CRF motor, EFI. and improved e-start is mandatory.
Look for a possible HRC from the factory option available as opposed to dealer installed.

Suspension: Should get both trail and track width....They may actually spend a bit more time and dollars to give a better quality stock shock than what is available now, and one that is able to be converted to a fully capable race shock.

Steering: Look for the stabilizer to make it's way from the CRF, it's a good idea and at least for the wide version, should be standard, as well as some form of anti vibe or mount for anti vibe on a stock stem.

Intangibles...I would look for Honda to make good use of the EFI system's fuel pump and locate the fuel tank in a different place as well as place the airbox up under the "tank" for better air flow and access like street bikes while lowering the center of gravity. If they engineer it properly and lower the CG while bringing the roll center up, they can really make it do some great things in the handling department. It will have it's roots in what Cannondale tried but done in a much better way.

Weight: This is tricky, but I don't think they will win the weight war, it will be within 10 pounds of the lightest at best, but that should be plenty close to not matter.

Just remember, you heard it here first.

TPR

 

The Phantom Rider strikes again...May your Predictions Reign True...

 

if that came true it would be an awsome bike....if half of that came true it would still be an awsome bike!

 

great predictions tpr,that would be a sick quad. might be a little pricey brand new, but i hope your right....

 

WOW!!!! let it be true. i better start saving my nickels and dimes...sounds like a healthy but worthwhile price tag too. thanks tpr for the info. one question? what year of model will start displaying this prediction??? because this is going to be a gotta have machine!!!!!!!!

 

idk what tpr would say but ik honda takes there time with new models. mabe a 2011 model???? avalibal mid 2010 earliest????

 

My buddy who works with Honda told me in 2007 what the 2009 CRF would be. He was dead on. He said the TRX450 will have an aluminum frame, EFI with 2 selectable maps with a selector on the bars, KYB shocks over Showa. The motor is moved forward a little bit resulting in lower center of gravity. Stabilizer for the bars. Seeing how the other MFGs are making XC and MX versions I wouldn't be surprised. I will be VERY disappointed if Honda only releases a 50" wide machine. A 50" wide machine is absolutely pointless to me and a lot of other riders. There are more people that ride/race trails than do track. Why would a company only serve one side of the sport. Like the LTR.

 

Take a good look at the new fuel injected 09 CRF450R engine! They took every bit of extra metal off that thing, and it is more the size and weight of a 250 than any other 450 out there.

Do more with less, that is what the 450's are all about!!!

http://powersports.honda.com/2009/crf450r/360.aspx

 

Well the vibe I am getting is that while we all know Honda to be the conservative manufacturer, since they released the 450r, every other manufacturer has shot their wad, and now it's Honda's turn.
While the new CRF motor is indeed smaller, it was designed to have a more sturdy bottom end to deal with the 450r load. Indeed more compact and lighter will work in it's favor.

KYB or (Kayaba) shocks have proven to be probably the best available for a stock quad. Can-Am has them and now the YFZ 450r has them. Plus they have made factory race shocks as well and those work as well as anything aftermarket.

Now as for the selectable EFI, they could adopt the system similar to what FMF employed for use with their shift on the fly CDI systems, could be very cool to have.

As for 2 versions, that should be mandatory as all it really takes is different a-arms, front shocks and axle, if done right. All those parts can be made for pennies more than the narrow versions so there really should only be a slight premium for those items.

TPR

 

<div class="FTQUOTE"><begin quote>Originally posted by: TPR



Look for a possible HRC from the factory option available as opposed to dealer installed.



</end quote></div>


This might however render it unable to meet emissions/green sticker requirements (????). Isn't that why we have to put them on aftermarket now?