Based on the geometry of the frame it should be an outstanding trail bike. Several of the reviews have touted it as a great trail machine!! The powerplant on the other hand will be extremely revy. This motor makes its power at very high RPM, which isn't the hot ticket for tight trail rides. I don't know about where the rest of you ride, but the trails I ride are 50" wide, semi-technical, and you never get out of 3rd gear. On this, you need a machine with low end grunt (400EX), not a bike that revs.

If they ever come out with a 650EX, it should rule the desert just like the XR650. I don't see a 650 as the hot ticket for trail riding either. The 400EX is already a superb trail machine.

As for reliability, I stop and talk to every CRF450 rider that I meet out on the trail. And, that is a great number!! It is the hot ticket right now. Nobody says they have ever had to do a top end yet!! Keep in mind that these are not being ridden as MX machines.

 

heck ya there will be no limitation to this bike. and for reliability, IT'S A HONDA

 

I think the Reconranger, thread above this one, makes a great point. The 450 is intended to run in the sand or on an open course where higher RPMs are achievable. The trails I ride on are short, winding, and in the trees. Not a place that a Banshee, 450R, or any other fast sport bike will have much advantage, if any, over my 400EX. However, put me in the open sand with them and I'll never see them until they want me to. I guess we all need to own at least 1 of each to be prepared for everything.

Wish List: A Banshee, 450R, XR650, CR500, maybe a Harley Fat Boy, a Gold Wing, hmm.......................A new Vette, a Viper........

Just one other thought. I guess we all need to learn to be happy with what we get/have........someone will always have have something faster. Learn to have fun!

Best wishes for fun and safety.