Three of six 450 motocross bikes arrived with complete overhauls for 2023, which brought additional excitement to what is already one of the most highly anticipated comparison tests of the year.
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Dirt Rider’s 2023 450 Motocross Shootout was one of the most exciting in recent memory with half of the field receiving complete overhauls.
Yamaha’s YZ450F piqued the most anticipation being that it was all-new and arrived later than the rest. KTM’s 450 SX-F and Husqvarna’s FC 450 were somewhat familiar as they’re based on the special-edition models from 2022. However, we hadn’t compared the new Austrian platform against the rest of the bikes in the 450 motocross segment—until now.
Honda’s CRF450R was granted mid-generation updates to its engine, suspension, and chassis. Aside from different tires and radiator shroud graphics, Kawasaki’s KX450 arrived identical to last year and the GasGas MC 450F enjoyed only cosmetic changes as well.
Before we began comparing them at the track, all six motorcycles were weighed with a full tank of fuel on the Dirt Rider automotive scales and run on our in-house dyno with Dunlop D404 street tires mounted on the rear wheels. Then we measured seat heights, applied Decal Works preprinted number plate backgrounds, and installed fresh Dunlop Geomax MX33 tires.
Static and action photography took place at Fox Raceway. Test days were conducted there, Cahuilla Creek MX, Perris Raceway, and Glen Helen Raceway. To assist with bike setup, each manufacturer was present at Glen Helen to make adjustments their respective machines might need to suit each rider. Our test team consisted of five riders ranging in ages from 24 to 52, in ability from novice to AMA pro, and in weight from 125 to 190 pounds.
Full story here: https://www.dirtrider.com/450-motocross-bike-comparison/
Video By: Bert Beltran
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