A Trailblazing Dual-Sport Icon
The Honda CRF450L 2025, officially named the CRF450RL, is a rider’s dream, blending motocross-bred performance with street-legal versatility. Launched in May 2024 and priced at $10,099 USD (₹10.26 lakh in India, ex-showroom, estimated), it’s a lone wolf among Japanese dual-sports, prioritizing rugged off-road capability and on-road compliance. Built on the CRF450R platform, this bike targets adventure enthusiasts and urban explorers, rivaling the KTM 500 EXC-F and Yamaha WR450F. With no major updates for 2025, its proven formula continues to dominate trails and streets.
Rugged Design & Top Features
The CRF450RL sports a sleek, MX-inspired look with smooth bodywork, a tinted DOT-approved headlight, and in-mold graphics for durability. Its 449cc Unicam® engine, twin-spar aluminum frame, and IRC GP tires ensure grip on dirt or pavement. Key features include a 6.5-inch digital meter, LED lighting, and handguards. The 2.0-gallon titanium fuel tank, factory skid plate, and urethane-injected swingarm enhance durability, while a lithium-ion battery powers electricals. The bike’s 131 kg (289 lbs) dry weight and 940 mm seat height balance agility and accessibility.
- Full LED lighting with high-intensity headlamp
- 6-speed wide-ratio gearbox for trails and highways
- Dual-channel ABS with off-road mode
- 318 mm front disc brake with 2-piston caliper
- Lightweight titanium tank and skid plate
Power & Performance
The 449cc, liquid-cooled, single-cylinder engine with fuel injection delivers 41.5 bhp and 32 Nm (based on 2023 dyno tests), optimized for low-end torque and crisp response across elevations. The 6-speed gearbox offers a low gear for technical trails and a tall sixth for 120-130 kmph highway cruising. Its 12.0:1 compression ratio and finger rocker arm boost efficiency, yielding ~28 kmpl (67 mpg, 110-mile range). The 49mm Showa forks and Pro-Link rear shock provide 305 mm front and 312 mm rear travel, taming rough terrain, though some X posts note a stiff stock suspension needing tweaks.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 449cc, Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke |
| Power | 41.5 bhp (estimated) |
| Torque | 32 Nm (estimated) |
| Mileage | ~28 kmpl (claimed) |
| Price | $10,099 USD (₹10.26 lakh, est.) |
Why It’s a Dream Bike
The CRF450RL’s street-legal status in all 50 states, catalytic converter, and ability to tackle national parks make it a true dual-sport gem. Its 200 mm ground clearance and 18-inch rear wheel conquer tough trails, while the 6-speed gearbox and 131 kg weight ensure highway comfort. X reviews rate it 4.5/5 for reliability, though maintenance (oil changes every 600 miles, valve checks every 1,800) is frequent. Compared to the KTM 500 EXC-F’s 63 bhp and $12,949 price, the CRF450RL offers better value and Honda’s durability. Users love its “unicorn” status in California for legal plating.
Ready to Ride?
Available now at Honda’s 1,000+ U.S. dealers, the CRF450RL comes in Red with a 12-month warranty. Bookings in India may open mid-2025 via honda2wheelersindia.com, pending import confirmation. Financing starts at ~$200/month USD. With a $600 destination charge and optional power-up kit (free from Honda), it’s ready for trails or streets. Check powersports.honda.com for updates. The 2025 CRF450L is every rider’s dream where will it take you?