First Look: 2014 Honda CRF 250 and 450 9

It's that time of year, when new bike fever kicks in. Honda gets the holeshot this year, with the first look at their 2014 CRF models. Here's what they fired off to us.

2014 Honda CRF250R

Like the new-generation CRF450R that debuted last year, this 2014 CRF250R launches 250-class motocross design up to the next level. Featuring an all-new engine and rolling chassis, this newest CRF250R has been designed specifically for Generation Scrub, with all the technological advancements that Honda engineering can bring to bear. The all-new frame is designed to lower the bike’s center of gravity and it also incorporates a dual-muffler exhaust system to further sharpen handling by centralizing the bike’s mass. And that makes a decidedly flickable machine even more nimble than ever before.

A thoroughly revised engine adds a big load of midrange punch, thanks to a new cylinder head, new piston, higher compression ratio, plus a new dual-timing fuel injection system, and a new transmission that adds toughness and durability to the overall package. Put it all together, and the 2014 CRF250R adds up to be the hottest 250 MX bike on the track, one that will continue Honda’s championship-winning records in the class. Color: Red; Price: TBD; Availability: September

New For 2014

- The all-new aluminum frame is designed to lower the bike’s center of gravity to make a decidedly flickable machine even more nimble than ever before.
- All-new, lighter subframe and airbox
- All-new short and compact dual-muffler exhaust system further sharpens handling by centralizing the bike’s mass.
- A thoroughly revised 249cc Unicam® engine adds a big load of midrange punch, thanks to a new cylinder head, new piston and higher compression ratio.
- A new Dual-Timing PGM-FI fuel injection system also helps boost power while also delivering better throttle response and control at partial throttle openings.
- A new transmission adds toughness and durability to the overall package.
- Improved footpeg mount features a patented debris-shielding design.
- All-new radiators are mounted lower in the chassis to help lower the bike’s CG.
- Bold new styling features an aggressive look.
- Fuel capacity is increased from 1.5 gallons to 1.66 gallons.

Honda Genuine Accessories
- PGM-FI Tuning Kit, Skid Plate, Oil Filler Cap, Workstand

2014 Honda CRF250R Specifications

Engine Type: 249cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke
Bore and Stroke: 76.8mm x 53.8mm
Compression ratio: 13.5:1
Valve Train: Unicam, four-valve; 30.5mm intake, titanium; 25mm exhaust, steel
Induction: Dual-Timing PGM-FI, 46mm throttle body
Ignition: Full transistor with electronic advance
Transmission: Close-ratio five-speed
Final Drive: #520 chain; 13T/49T

Suspension 
Front: 48mm inverted Showa cartridge fork with 16-position rebound and 16-position compression damping adjustability; 12.2 inches travel
Rear: Pro-Link Showa single shock with adjustable spring preload, 17-position rebound damping adjustability, and compression damping adjustment separated into low-speed (13 positions) and high-speed (3.5 turns); 12.3 inches travel

Brakes 
Front: Single 240mm disc with twin-piston caliper
Rear: Single 240mm disc

Tires 
Front: Dunlop MX51FA 80/100-21
Rear: Dunlop MX51 100/90-19

Wheelbase: 58.6 inches
Rake (Caster Angle): 27°23’
Trail: 118mm (4.6 inches)
Seat Height: 37.4 inches
Ground Clearance: 12.7 inches
Fuel Capacity: 1.66 gallons
Color: Red
Curb Weight*: 231 pounds
*Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel—ready to ride.

More info? powersports.honda.com/2014/crf250r

2014 Honda CRF450R

Introduced in 2013, the new-generation CRF450R has already proven itself a winner at the highest levels of racing. And that’s no surprise. This awe-inspiring racing machine features a rolling chassis fully focused on meeting the needs of today’s scrub generation of riders via an aluminum frame along with an innovative suspension package, plus a strategically engineered compact dual-muffler exhaust system that tucks in closely to the center of mass. Designed from the ground up as a total package that would be eminently flickable, responsive and lightweight, every element in the CRF450R chassis has been focused on attaining a low center of gravity along with class-leading mass centralization.

For 2014, new intake and exhaust ports, new Dual-Timing fuel injection and redesigned muffler internals boost torque output and increase throttle response. Also, in the suspension department, revised internals in the KYB PSF® (Pneumatic Spring Fork) yield improved damping response for improved bump performance. As before, the advantages to the KYB PSF include significantly lighter weight since it uses air in place of traditional steel springs, and the design also allows incorporation of a larger 32mm cartridge damper piston for superb fork action. Color: Red; Price: TBD; Availability: August

New for 2014

- New intake and exhaust ports, a new Dual-Timing PGM-FI fuel injection setup and redesigned muffler internals boost torque output and increase throttle response.
- New clutch springs give a lighter pull at the lever without sacrificing durability.
- Revised internals in the KYB PSF® (Pneumatic Spring Fork) yield improved damping response.

Honda Genuine Accessories
- PGM-FI Tuning Kit, Skid Plate, Oil Filler Cap, Workstand

2014 Honda CRF450R Specifications

Engine Type: 449cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke
Bore and Stroke: 96.0mm x 62.1mm
Compression ratio: 12.5:1
Valve Train: Unicam, four-valve; 36mm intake, titanium; 31mm exhaust, steel
Induction: Dual-Timing PGM-FI, 46mm throttle body
Ignition: Full transistor with electronic advance
Transmission: Close-ratio five-speed
Final Drive: #520 chain; 13T/48T

Suspension 
Front: 48mm inverted KYB PSF (Pneumatic Spring Fork) with air-adjustable spring rate, and rebound and compression-damping adjustability; 12.2 inches travel.
Rear: Pro-Link® KYB single shock with adjustable spring preload, rebound damping adjustability, and compression damping adjustment separated into low-speed and high-speed; 12.4 inches travel

Brakes 
Front: Single 240mm disc with twin-piston caliper
Rear: Single 240mm disc

Tires 
Front: Dunlop MX51FA 80/100-21
Rear: Dunlop MX51 120/80-19

Wheelbase: 58.7 inches
Rake (Caster Angle): 27°04’
Trail: 116mm (4.57 inches)
Seat Height: 37.5 inches
Ground Clearance: 13.0 inches
Fuel Capacity: 1.66 gallons
Color: Red
Curb Weight*: 242.7 pounds

*Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel—ready to ride.

More info? powersports.honda.com/2014/crf450r