So it's been a while since I laid out the future of sport atv's. So here's a nugget Honda fans will cheer for.....

The 2010 450r will have major changes. No Bold New Graphics or color choices...nope, new frame, motor and suspension are in the works and being tested.

Word is that the frame will likely not be aluminum, but perhaps Chrome-moly a-la, KTM. Completely revised suspension, and new generation 450 motor. Now what is not decided is if it will have EFI just yet or not, that is still being ironed out as many 450r racers and riders still prefer the carb setup, this is the only part I don't have a clear grasp on yet.

Now here is the catch, if the economy starts to rebound and sales of ATV's improves, this will be a 2010 model, if not it will be delayed till 2011. If that happens, then it will be one more year of BNG and colors.

TPR

 

I hope they go a little wider and give in on the EFI....

 

I tested a prototype for Honda....so I know there are things in the pipeline! The CRF450R dirt bike got a total remake this year (engine, EFI, frame, etc.), so it is only natural to have that technology filter down to the quad. It would be nice to also see a new water cooled EFI machine in the 400 class. The venerable old 400EX just can't compete with the new Z400, unless they keep the price differential so great that the EX is a super bargain.

But, like you said I think the economy will be a big issue. Retooling for a new model is a big deal, and when sales are down and you aren't going to see a return on that investment very quickly, the easiest thing to do is just delay another year or two. On the other hand, if you don't get new stuff out there, when the economy does turn back around you can get caught sitting on your thumbs!

I am a little torn about spending $$$$ on a redone 450R. With all the trail closures, the brightest spot on the future horizon is going to be dual-sport motorcycles! I have to say that I would rather pump my money into a dual-sport version of the CRF450X/250X, than anything else I can imagine right now. KTM and Husky have shown everyone that you can have a truely dirt worthy bike, that is also street legal (and isn't a huge heavy pig either!). If Honda doesn't step up to the plate, there may be a very expensive new KTM 450EXC in my garage next time around!

 

i knew 2010 had to bring something. i would understand but would hope they dont delay it. efi would be welcome to me. an xc version with reverse would be cool too. reverse not 100% necesary but 50+ inches wide sucks in the trails, so 2 versions would be nice. that '10 can am 450xc is a nice one to think about.

as far as dual sports do either of you know how the aprillia 4.5/5.5's hold up? with that twin, they sound excellent. 2 pipes under the seat. (id like to see either engine in a quad). i almost bought a 750 shiver last year. aprillias seem like they are built well - i just dont know anyone that has one. they do pretty good in reviews but they are so rare around here (if any) but there is only 1 dealer about 36miles away and they have a nice 08 clearance going on right now...

TPR what happend to all the theatrics? that was one of the most entertaining things on here!

 

i think two versions would be good of the 450r the track one with 50 with (sorry can't spell) and a trail on with reverse i would leave the efi off not worth it. if it comes out in 2010 i wish i would have waited a year and get the track machine then i wouldn't have to shell out the much money.

 

This is no new info. The same info that i have been hearing since 08. 09 would have a beefed up CRF and 10 would be the TRX.

 

Word is that the CRF250R will get the same total remake in 10 that the CRF450R got in 09. The CRF450X/250X will follow later....but how quickly will depend on when the economy will support it. The reason I mention it is that the X usually follows after the R, and the quad then follows after the X.....

An TRX250R performance quad with a CRF engine is way overdue. Not just a 250 engine in a 450 frame ok, but an extreme ultralight medium frame machine ala the pure fun Yamaha 250!

Also way overdue are some true hybrids to compete with the likes of the Wolverine.