I’ve got the Vortex ECU, Yoshi full exhaust, Dunlop D606 tires, bark busters, tail tidy, seat concepts seat, Baja designs headlight, rear rack, IMS 3 gallon tank, rear Kouba link, doubletake mirrors, Upshift graphics and the list goes on. I love this bike. A Husky or KTM is $2500 more msrp, and you are still going to mod those bikes. Dual sport 250’s, 300’s and 450’s are all 10k or more these days. That said, my wife bought it for me as a surprise, and even got it home in my truck all on her own. That to me is priceless, so I would be a fool to not keep this bike and invest into making it perfect.
I’m really thinking of this bike vs the 300L coming from an XR600. My real question is, where did you find the wife, and did they make more of her? Also, divorces are expensive.
Right on! Your story sounds almost exactly as mine!😂 this is my load up and overland bike. When I want to go single tracking of just trail riding I take the 22 GasGas ec300! Feels like a toy compared to the CRF, but dosent have the build quality of the Honda.
@@BornAGoon I'm still waiting for a DS/ADV mash up that leans heavily towards the DS side. I am intrigued by the TransAlp, but I think few it as a street bike. I just wish Honda would take the CRF450L and give it a little (not much) CB500X treatment.....long maintenance intervals, comfy seat, good dash, some wind protection.
I own a 2019 450L and mave modified that thing from top to bottom. This guy hits it on the head, being a diamond in the rough. Stock form I was so disappointed, but after all the mods this bike is amazing. Wish I didn't have to do the mods, but Honda laid an egg with the stock version, but theres plenty of potential if willing to do the proper mods.
I own a 21 as well. In stock form the CRF450RL @ 9995.00 is pretty bad (to me as well) but not horrible when compared to bikes in the same category to be honest. If you brought home a KTM @12,299 or a Husky @ 12,399, street legal version, you are going to spend 700-1000 at a minimum uncorking those bikes as well. Been there done that. The CRF450L is no different. If you are the average "Joe Bagadoughnuts" who is happy to leave things alone, on a budget as mentioned, and not really going to push the bike to limits, difficult terrain etc, it's fine. They are all fine. But, if you want to tap into some of the racing pedigree and performance characteristics this bike (and others) have deep inside as you mention, well prepare to be amazed. I have the VORTEX ECU, Yoshi system, smog delete kit and I can tell you it is a COMPLETELY different bike @ 16-20 pounds lighter to boot than in stock form with these mods. I would say that my point here is for all bikes to run right as designed today, they need to be tweaked or modded to meet skill levels and how / where it is going to be ridden. The one thing you did not comment on, the primary reason I got the CRF, is reliability. You cannot beat a Honda for that. Period. I wanted a bike I can ride from here to the west coast, say on the T.A.T., or on the BDRs and not have to worry about breakdowns or parts availability if needed. Honda dealers are everywhere........ I am glad Honda came out with this "platform". I wanted to give this a try and truly glad I did. I wanted to commend you on your two reviews of the Honda. I watched a ton of reviews on this bike before getting one and did want to say that I truly enjoyed yours. Like your style. Great job....Lets see some more..It snowing here, :-( glad somebody can get out and ride......
Thanks for watching I didnt elaborate but I did menton the fit and finish is why I went with the Honda over the Husky but it was reliability as well Also the bike vibration damping properties like the injected swingarm and plastic engine coverings Im thinking you make the Honda run faster for less money than unvibrating a KTM lol Who knows
Spot on, alllll these videos on the 450l people say the same thing that dumping a couple grand into it to get it right sucks so buy a ktm, then anyone that has owned ktms in real life and not from a keyboard will tell you that they need tuning as well.
How do you have less than 1000 subscribers???? Your videos are always fun and informative. Please keep up the good work. Hopefully you’ve built the channel, and they will come…
the reason is you shout a little bit, talk too much, less real info, e.g. not explaning properly the problem with ECU... sorry, but you sound like cheap american TV add... maybe try more your videos, less intense talking and less critics...
I wanted a 450L so bad when they first came out but kept thinking of how much I would have to do just to get it to run right. Ended up with a new 2019 Beta 500 RRS for $8900 out the door. Total beast without a single engine mod. Looks great and impresses me every time I ride it.
@@BornAGoon Yes it is but I have mine with the full knobby tires. It came with 2 sprockets and I have mine set up with the smaller one for off-road use. Seems fine around the neighborhood but I wouldn’t take it on the highway with this gearing set up. The Beta has a Trail Tech so I can see the max speed that I have taken mine is 72. Street tires and the larger sprocket would smooth it out for street use.
I appreciate that you don't split unnecessary hairs like most people that talk about bikes on the internet. It's a good bike, needs a few things, has its ups and downs like they all do. Funny how you talked about comparing it to the tiger. I rode dual sport for many years and stopped for a while and had no bikes, when I got back into it I started with an adventure bike and had fun with it, rode it like a dirt bike as much as it would let me. Then when I bought an actual dual sport dirt bike again and rode it like butter through deep sand and sketchy hills and stuff I was like what the hell have I been doing. I forgot what it was like to not have to prepare for every change of terrain and just brap it
Thanks for the kind words. I know what you mean. I would reach the limit on the Tiger right away but on this one I always think " I could have hit that obstacle way faster "
Dammit, you are in my favorite winter riding spot. I rode my buds '21 RL, to me it didnt stall any more than my old gen crf450x with carb and airbox mods done. I think its just the nature of that 450. I also think a lot of people buy this bike, who never rode a 450 before...they ALL are a pain to ride in technical terrain even after u do all the air/fuel mods. Another thing is if u are riding that terrain, turn the idle up to 1800-2000k rpms. I do this with all my 4strokes when riding single track. I prefer a low idle, but oem KTM recommend the idle set at 1700-2100rpm on their 350s and 500s. Another thing u can try is to remove the air box lid, my buds bike was off and maybe why it didnt stall easy when i rode it. Theres youtube vids here on the dyno saying its almost like Honda sneaky meant for it to be off {noise restrictions} cuz the air:fuel ratio went perfect with it removed. Anyway, I like your vids and hope Im not being a pain with my opinions LOL. Its awesome seeing u ride the areas I did on the bike I was gonna get had I not moved out of CA. Im in northern WI and MI now, I got my woods bike and probably getting a 300 Rally for a dual sport since i already have a dedicated enduro bike.
Goon, I agree with you. We should not have to spend fortunes of money to make a bike run like it should out of the factory. I for one am done doing that. I bought a drz400s and the only thing I did was change the tires out. It ran fantastic right from the factory!
Having owned both, I would recommend just sucking up the price difference (about 22%) on the front end and get the KTM EXC 500 F or even the KTM 690 Enduro R. Jump on and enjoy. I was never happier to sell a motorcycle as I was to sell my CRF450L. Even after warranty spoiling ECU and exhaust, the CRF needs a seat. Plus the oil is a PITA to change with the plastic sidecar cover that must be removed, and even the chain is a PITA to lube with that damn rubber thing on the rear sprocket. And we still haven't fixed the biggest problem which IMO is the excessively light flywheel.
@@BornAGoon 690 enduros are scarce for 2022, due to suspension bit shortage I am told. I was trying to buy one this week but the only one I could find the dealer had marked way above MSRP. The 690 SMs are available (and INCREDIBLE bikes) but obviously not DP bikes.
I have to admit. I agree. As an owner of klr650 and tiger 800 I can confirm he’s completely right. I’m a bigger guy and looking for a new bike. Only thing I’m concerned about is the maintenance schedule. If anyone can confirm these things please let me know. I don’t mind putting in a few mods to smooth things out.
Thank you! I have a 2021 and you nailed it…I’ve done all the mods; Vortex, Yosh pipe, tamer, skid plate, etc., and the potential of the bike is there, but it concerns me that it still doesn’t feel sorted. Every time I ride the CRF, I wonder if I should’ve gone with the 701, had to do less to it to have a better, more predictable experience. I’ve seen several CRF450RLs for sale with the mods done, virtually new with a few hundred miles, at the price of a stock bike. It seems the market is telling us something about the CRF450RL riding experience.
To date, I haven't seen a well sorted 450RL. I don't mind spending $13k on a bike but I do expect it to run right especially after upgrading the CPU and pipe. I grew up racing Honda's and even sold them for 7 years so my love for Honda runs deep but, I need to ride a 690 and or a 701 and see what all the hype is about. Good luck fellas. 👍
an experienced rider will love this bike. yes you have to add a shit ton but that is all because of states like California and emission creeps. The other bikes are heavy as crap and ment for touring. I was a pro motocross racer and when this bike is fitted for you and I mean fitted re: sag, suspension and balanced. it is a beast. For techy single tracks the KTM 350 is it !!!!
Just bought a 2022 RL same bike and you are so right!! Already put $4k into it!! To make it what the fact ery should have already done !! Ordered my ECU 2 And a half months ago . And still waiting !! But should be a real good bike when done !! Tons of real low end power did not think. It would have !! After coming off my 92 Honda CR500 two stroke!!
I feel the same way with my '22 450RL, well said ! So for me, I can wait for the ECU and Yosh full exhst, and have a blast attempting to smooth out and control this frisky stock bike
I just rode my ‘21 450RL for a couple hours today on dirt roads and trails and love mine. Only got 1700 miles on it but never changed the ecu or pipe. I’m sure it’s better but just changing the gearing and tires among little mods and it’s badass. I did just have to get a te300i for making trails in the woods because that’s where the 450RL’s weakness lies but other than that love it and have avoided spending a couple more thousand. But cheers to the new bike! Enjoy!
@@BornAGoon Vortex and full Yoshimura exhaust- dig it! So far only tried Map 1 on 5 5 5 , this is a different and better bike! Used traction control several times the last 3 rides and it helps get the power down without spinning or front wheel lifting. These Honda 450RL's are just quality bikes. Not as user friendly as my friend's KTM 500 EXCF, but spicy and a blast.
you are so much on point. I bought the 450L in 2019 over the KTM500 especially because of that 450R engine feel that I loved so much from my Trx450 with the HRC kit (agressive cam, jetting and exhaust) from the factory. I've owned a Husky Te501 prior to my honda and it was dangerous in comparison speaking about power delivery haha That engine is so good when well polished, no regrets neither, but it is a damn expensive bike after taking into account all the mods we have to do to bring it where it belongs
I suggest you turn the idle up slightly and report back to see if it helps. I believe it is supposed to be set at 1800+/- 100 rpm. I would set it at like 1900 for break in and see if that helps. I read somewhere alot of the bikes had the idle set too low.
all the reasons you love the CRF are reasons you would love it's competitors, but with them, you wouldn't have to spend the money on the mods to fix the engine. so yeah of course it's a great bike. but after considering the cost to buy, the cost to mod, and comparing THAT expense against a competitor without the mods, which would you prefer to have? that's the choice new buyers are making. i have a crf450L. i complain about the bike up and down - until i ride it. then i love it. it's great and perfect for what i want. thank god i got mine used with a vortex already installed. otherwise, i'd be a sad camper. i came from a crf250L rally which i didn't like due to excess weight and anemic power so i feel you on the whole "big bikes shouldn't be on trails" train of thought. if honda puts out a street legal 350 with a lightweight frame and good suspension to compete with the ktm 350 EXC-f, i'll probably trade in because i'd love to shed about 40-50 lbs at the sacrifice of a bit of power. this crf450L is a damn monster and is more power than i'll ever really need.
I feel the same I probably would have gone with a 701 if I could have found one but then I hate to wrench on bikes these days so deep inside I thought the Honda will last longer Once you get it sorted it should be good for good
I bought the 21 CRF 450RL, and to be honest if I had it to do over again I’d buy the KTM 500 instead. I bought the Honda exclusively because of Honda’s reputation for reliability, and I think that’s still a valid benefit, but the CRF just needs too much aftermarket help to become what $10,000 should buy you off the showroom floor. I was stunned at how easy the CRF would stall, even just riding around the neighborhood. Like you said, almost unridable, and certainly less fun when you are constantly trying to keep from getting pitched off the thing when it stalls out… because when it stalls, it stops! Like you hit a brick wall! A $700 Vortex or one of the few other, even more expensive, options is a must right out of the box. My Vortex completely transformed the CRF, and another $700 for a Yoshi pipe with the CRF 450X header pipe to improve the putt putt factory sound, improved the bike all around… aside from fuel economy. A $350 3.2 gallon fuel tank gives acceptable range for most day rides, and a Seat Concepts seat makes it possible to sit on the thing for more than 30 min. I opted for the additional 2 way switch that plugs right into the Vortex and allows for a second mapping option. The only other shortcoming of the Honda is the factory recommended 600 mile oil chang intervals. Adds another consideration for multipal day overland rides. The KTM needs some of the same upgrades, but not a $700 ECU right out of the box to make it ridable, and let’s not forget the KTM is about 50 lbs lighter too, which is significant! Once the Honda is done right it’s a great light adventure bike!
I also have a 22 RL, I have not had much stalling but it gets better with more miles, It built real tight engine wise 3rd ring on the piston, I bet in the future these will be coveted like the XR's
Great review, I chose the 300l rally over this because of service intervals, I realise the power difference is quite significant but my skill levels off road would not do this bike justice. I like your thoughts on bike mods, mine was similar till I put some extra weight on the crf300 - suspension bottomed out easily. Subscribed.
Reminds me of my old 650R. Had to uncork (easy) and fix the down right dangerous pogo stick stock suspension. Had Precision Concepts give me the Johnny Campbell makeover and wow, bye bye crashing hello ripping through the Mojave for 10 years of trouble free good times.
I have the identical bike. I had the stalling issues in the beginning I turned the idle up and never had an issue again. The husky are big bucks you get what you pay for. This bike has its pros and cons don’t get me wrong. The seat sucks and so do the tires. But overall I think it’s a great bike with plenty of power. Like they they say there a seat for anyones ass and to each his own. Be safe love you channel.
I have a 22 crf450rl and went with a power commander and throttle tamer and I found it to be much better on jerkiness both in acceleration and throttle off at speed. I dont think you need the Vortex or changing the exhaust. I also ride 1 gear higher which seems to really make a difference. I'm not understanding the level of mods everyone thinks you need for this bike it just doesn't. You can get it all accomplished for under $500. Love this bike more and more with every additional ride
I wouldn't even get the throttle tamer right away. Just add the power commander and reroute the throttle cable through the bars. I added $20 bar risers and rerouted the cable in addition to the throttle tamer but if I had to do it again I probably would have stopped at the cable reroute. Costs nothing to do that and it helps. The other thing is to ride it a gear up. Consciously doing that helped alot off road. Stick with it and give it some miles it breaks in and settled out.
update. I love this bike now !! check out my youtube video of all of my mods. I am still waiting for my Vortex, but taking out the spark arrester and a throttle tamer, it is sick. I had it dialed in for me, with sag and suspension, and now it is epic. Just did 4 days of riding in the San Juans and it kicked ass. great engine braking, with zero stalls. LOVE HER
The 450's stall much easier than the Euro 500's from my experience. I owned an 06 ktm 525 prior to my 2019 450x and it was a tractor. I got out of almost every gnarly situation at slow speeds without stalling. The Honda just requires more clutch work. There's no permanent cure unless you buy a Rekluse X or CX Auto, but those are so expensive! BTW, I have the vortex and it does make the bike run better and get rid of flameouts but it won't cure stalling.
@@BornAGoon Yeah, I just have the FMF Q4 Slip-on. Baffle and spark arrest were left IN. There’s a guy who sells an adapter for the L header so you don’t spend big bucks on a full system. I’ve also been testing with the air boot lid on/off. Originally, I had the fuel trims all set to 5 with the air filter cover OFF. It made the bike more snappy and powerful. Now I set the fuel to 3 (low,med,high) and have the air cover ON. Wow, it is so smooth and easy to ride anywhere. Plus it’s even quieter now! I would go one step at a time. Highly suggest getting the vortex or any ECU and trying it with the stock pipe first. Then if you want even more power, go for an exhaust upgrade.
I have Rally 300, yep Honda is delivering sub standard bikes off the showroom floor. My Rally, yep poor fueling plus bubble gum suspension plus choked up motor. The bike has great potential (reason I bought it), but as delivered is very disappointing. I am $2500 into suspension, ECU, cams, exh.....Now it is a good bike.
Cant believe the 450RL controversy is still a thing. Everyone who owns one has done all the research and reviews before walking into the showroom and signing papers. You all know exactly what your getting, you all know the mods are a must, no different than any other bike. Yes I did all the basic mods and a few other wants. 2k miles later and still have zero regrets. I love this bike. With a 500exc parked next to it in the garage and plenty of seat time on that as well I realize I'm glad I chose the Honda over the KTM. It's a real dualsport with high performance that oozes Honda quality fit and finish and ergos that shine over any other DS out there. The KTM is a dirtbike that has a few cheap add-ons to make it street legal, you can look at stats all day but in the field the Honda isn't giving up anything other than a few more pounds. Most people want more HP but really don't know how to use it....I already have other offroad bikes with more power
I've had it a year now (22 450rl) and so far??? Not a mod a one, I love this bike. My dad has the 250l and it is a DOG lol, more like an off road scooter. Maybe I'll get an exu one day but for now perfect.
I have a 21 RL and agree with your comments. The bike pretty much sucked out of the box. Stalled constantly, ran hot and just felt pent up! Really had me second guessing my decision. But, after the Vortex, Yoshi, a decent seat I could stand to sit on, some dirt tires, deleting the duck tail, some hand guards, a skid plate, and a few other cosmetic changes, it is a Diamond for sure… as long as you keep it on the bigger trails! She’s just too heavy for the tight single track riding. For that I bought a new GasGas EC300 last week!
I know we're talking two very different worlds here but i have a 450r and a 250RX. No dual sport will ever feel adequate offroad IMO. I used to have the 250RL and i hated it. The dual sports try to do too many things and fail at all of them. I dont mind trucking to the track.
CRF450L/RL rocks🤙 Baja Proven. Sure its choked up stock (thanks California) but that's the only way they could get it approved for sale in all 50 states. Exhaust and ecu is a game changer and makes a "good" bike a "great"one.
I'm on the hook for a 2022 CRF450L but was originally going for a 2022 FE501. now I don't know what to do and put down a deposit today for the CRF. are the flamoeouts really a problem? And is honda going to be overall more reliable?
@@BornAGoon same man. I like to ride in the dirt and it’s just too heavy. Otherwise no issues with it and it’s a great forest road bike. I would ride it across country tomorrow no doubt but corral canyon trails no way. You made it look easy dude. Palomar truck is fun with it.
I just added the Vortex ECU and full Yoshi pipe - I could only ride it in 27 degree weather for about 15 minutes - Still seems Jerky???? What map did you choose for the ECU ?
I havent added the ECU yet I have to wait another month to get it shipped to me I will do a video on the settings when I get it Hopefully you get yours sorted
Your glove wanted some attention 😆😆😆. So you road raced? Would you ever consider doing some track day videos or sport bike related videos. Thank you. I finally subbed. Btw, I’m a fan of SWM. Waiting for the 500RE to get homologated.
I was at my Honda Dealership just the other day and could have walked away with a CRF 450 Enduro (street legal) 2021 by RedMoto for just 9 Grand....kind of glad I didn´t though...
I was really lucky. I found a 2019 WITH ALL THE MODS DONE FOR $10,000 and it only had 650 miles on it. I just got it 2 weeks ago and the damn thing hauls ass. I'm putting the throttle tamer on this weekend. I also need to lower the pegs if I can and put some risers on the bars. What a fun bike to ride. If anyone has any recommendations for lowing the pegs please let me know.
lol tough one There is less work to do on the Husky 501 but the 450 RL is way less buzzy on the freeway and the attention to detail is way better Both are great bikes but I chose the Honda for those reasons because I ride 40 miles to trails
@@BornAGoon not the RL, the 450L is what I'm talking about. I've heard about flameouts and people being upset that it's underwhelming from the factory.
@@njinvision5463 The 450L and RL are underwhelming in stock form I have not had flameout issues but I have had jerky throttle issues You will need to invest in the Vortex ECU to make the bike run properly The 501 is a better motor out of the box but it is seriously buzzy on the road
I’m seriously considering the 450L after having a Husky TE 510 for a decade and 12000 miles. A friend only put 3000 miles on his ( same year) Husky and is willing to sell it to me for 1/3 of what a new bike would cost. I don’t want to re-live all of the previous Husky (reliability) issues so am wary going Euro again. Honda is better in reliability if that is something important to you
It should perform just like my 2019 crf450x it is the exact same engine and emissions butt i want that bike just because it's street legal that's the only reason i want to change from my x
@@BornAGoon it's an R not street legal. I cant seem to find any that are reasonable, what few I do find. Just dont want to spend $15k right now, but would spend half that on a used one.....maybe ill just get a DRZ400 for now...my KLR 650 is way too heavy for the trails I want to ride on...
I have a 2021 450 RL can I get the bike started put a new battery in but my starter main post terminal is ringing to ground tripping the circuit breaker on my battery does anybody have that same issue
on my new fe501 i also had to buy the vortec ecu on day one. just riding it the header was glowing. sucks to drop that much coin on it, but it is what it is lol. also looks like superstition
U comming from racing,u are talking from a prospective of professional rider ,who knows how to ride a bike and enduro bike ,about a complete amateur to enduro and someone who didn’t ride even street bike for decades ,beginner,is the ECU upgrade needed for a heavy,tall rider ? 300lbs + …
I’ve got the Vortex ECU, Yoshi full exhaust, Dunlop D606 tires, bark busters, tail tidy, seat concepts seat, Baja designs headlight, rear rack, IMS 3 gallon tank, rear Kouba link, doubletake mirrors, Upshift graphics and the list goes on. I love this bike. A Husky or KTM is $2500 more msrp, and you are still going to mod those bikes. Dual sport 250’s, 300’s and 450’s are all 10k or more these days. That said, my wife bought it for me as a surprise, and even got it home in my truck all on her own. That to me is priceless, so I would be a fool to not keep this bike and invest into making it perfect.
Bikes are not cheap anymore thats for sure I am glad you like the 450 I like it too but coming from a big ADV I forgot how small these are
I’m really thinking of this bike vs the 300L coming from an XR600. My real question is, where did you find the wife, and did they make more of her? Also, divorces are expensive.
Right on! Your story sounds almost exactly as mine!😂 this is my load up and overland bike. When I want to go single tracking of just trail riding I take the 22 GasGas ec300! Feels like a toy compared to the CRF, but dosent have the build quality of the Honda.
You would be more of a fool not to put money into your awesome bike. Never let her go, blessings!!
@@BornAGoon I'm still waiting for a DS/ADV mash up that leans heavily towards the DS side. I am intrigued by the TransAlp, but I think few it as a street bike. I just wish Honda would take the CRF450L and give it a little (not much) CB500X treatment.....long maintenance intervals, comfy seat, good dash, some wind protection.
I own a 2019 450L and mave modified that thing from top to bottom. This guy hits it on the head, being a diamond in the rough. Stock form I was so disappointed, but after all the mods this bike is amazing. Wish I didn't have to do the mods, but Honda laid an egg with the stock version, but theres plenty of potential if willing to do the proper mods.
Thanks for watching Glad you like the bike Im excited about the mods
so after 10k it needs what? another 2-3k?
fact !!!!
@@TheSocketshock I see lots of people 5k into theirs
I own a 21 as well. In stock form the CRF450RL @ 9995.00 is pretty bad (to me as well) but not horrible when compared to bikes in the same category to be honest. If you brought home a KTM @12,299 or a Husky @ 12,399, street legal version, you are going to spend 700-1000 at a minimum uncorking those bikes as well. Been there done that.
The CRF450L is no different. If you are the average "Joe Bagadoughnuts" who is happy to leave things alone, on a budget as mentioned, and not really going to push the bike to limits, difficult terrain etc, it's fine. They are all fine. But, if you want to tap into some of the racing pedigree and performance characteristics this bike (and others) have deep inside as you mention, well prepare to be amazed.
I have the VORTEX ECU, Yoshi system, smog delete kit and I can tell you it is a COMPLETELY different bike @ 16-20 pounds lighter to boot than in stock form with these mods.
I would say that my point here is for all bikes to run right as designed today, they need to be tweaked or modded to meet skill levels and how / where it is going to be ridden.
The one thing you did not comment on, the primary reason I got the CRF, is reliability. You cannot beat a Honda for that. Period. I wanted a bike I can ride from here to the west coast, say on the T.A.T., or on the BDRs and not have to worry about breakdowns or parts availability if needed. Honda dealers are everywhere........
I am glad Honda came out with this "platform". I wanted to give this a try and truly glad I did.
I wanted to commend you on your two reviews of the Honda. I watched a ton of reviews on this bike before getting one and did want to say that I truly enjoyed yours. Like your style. Great job....Lets see some more..It snowing here, :-( glad somebody can get out and ride......
Thanks for watching I didnt elaborate but I did menton the fit and finish is why I went with the Honda over the Husky but it was reliability as well Also the bike vibration damping properties like the injected swingarm and plastic engine coverings Im thinking you make the Honda run faster for less money than unvibrating a KTM lol Who knows
Spot on, alllll these videos on the 450l people say the same thing that dumping a couple grand into it to get it right sucks so buy a ktm, then anyone that has owned ktms in real life and not from a keyboard will tell you that they need tuning as well.
How do you have less than 1000 subscribers???? Your videos are always fun and informative. Please keep up the good work. Hopefully you’ve built the channel, and they will come…
Hopefully soon I think I need 8 more lol I appreciate your support
I asked myself the same question. This is quality content. Not to mention being articulate.
He just got another one:)
the reason is you shout a little bit, talk too much, less real info, e.g. not explaning properly the problem with ECU... sorry, but you sound like cheap american TV add... maybe try more your videos, less intense talking and less critics...
I wanted a 450L so bad when they first came out but kept thinking of how much I would have to do just to get it to run right. Ended up with a new 2019 Beta 500 RRS for $8900 out the door. Total beast without a single engine mod. Looks great and impresses me every time I ride it.
How is the beta on the road? Is it buzzy?
@@BornAGoon Yes it is but I have mine with the full knobby tires. It came with 2 sprockets and I have mine set up with the smaller one for off-road use. Seems fine around the neighborhood but I wouldn’t take it on the highway with this gearing set up. The Beta has a Trail Tech so I can see the max speed that I have taken mine is 72. Street tires and the larger sprocket would smooth it out for street use.
I appreciate that you don't split unnecessary hairs like most people that talk about bikes on the internet. It's a good bike, needs a few things, has its ups and downs like they all do.
Funny how you talked about comparing it to the tiger. I rode dual sport for many years and stopped for a while and had no bikes, when I got back into it I started with an adventure bike and had fun with it, rode it like a dirt bike as much as it would let me. Then when I bought an actual dual sport dirt bike again and rode it like butter through deep sand and sketchy hills and stuff I was like what the hell have I been doing. I forgot what it was like to not have to prepare for every change of terrain and just brap it
Thanks for the kind words. I know what you mean. I would reach the limit on the Tiger right away but on this one I always think " I could have hit that obstacle way faster "
Dammit, you are in my favorite winter riding spot. I rode my buds '21 RL, to me it didnt stall any more than my old gen crf450x with carb and airbox mods done. I think its just the nature of that 450. I also think a lot of people buy this bike, who never rode a 450 before...they ALL are a pain to ride in technical terrain even after u do all the air/fuel mods. Another thing is if u are riding that terrain, turn the idle up to 1800-2000k rpms. I do this with all my 4strokes when riding single track. I prefer a low idle, but oem KTM recommend the idle set at 1700-2100rpm on their 350s and 500s. Another thing u can try is to remove the air box lid, my buds bike was off and maybe why it didnt stall easy when i rode it. Theres youtube vids here on the dyno saying its almost like Honda sneaky meant for it to be off {noise restrictions} cuz the air:fuel ratio went perfect with it removed. Anyway, I like your vids and hope Im not being a pain with my opinions LOL. Its awesome seeing u ride the areas I did on the bike I was gonna get had I not moved out of CA. Im in northern WI and MI now, I got my woods bike and probably getting a 300 Rally for a dual sport since i already have a dedicated enduro bike.
I think I will try that idle adjustment and the airbox lid to see I appreciate the advice and thanks for watching
@@BornAGoon did the airbox lid removal improve anything?
Goon, I agree with you. We should not have to spend fortunes of money to make a bike run like it should out of the factory. I for one am done doing that. I bought a drz400s and the only thing I did was change the tires out. It ran fantastic right from the factory!
Very true thanks for watching
Having owned both, I would recommend just sucking up the price difference (about 22%) on the front end and get the KTM EXC 500 F or even the KTM 690 Enduro R. Jump on and enjoy. I was never happier to sell a motorcycle as I was to sell my CRF450L. Even after warranty spoiling ECU and exhaust, the CRF needs a seat. Plus the oil is a PITA to change with the plastic sidecar cover that must be removed, and even the chain is a PITA to lube with that damn rubber thing on the rear sprocket. And we still haven't fixed the biggest problem which IMO is the excessively light flywheel.
I wanted the 690 or 701 just couldnt find one How are they on the highway I am looking into this flywheel thanks for bringing it up
@@BornAGoon 690 enduros are scarce for 2022, due to suspension bit shortage I am told. I was trying to buy one this week but the only one I could find the dealer had marked way above MSRP. The 690 SMs are available (and INCREDIBLE bikes) but obviously not DP bikes.
I have to admit. I agree. As an owner of klr650 and tiger 800 I can confirm he’s completely right. I’m a bigger guy and looking for a new bike. Only thing I’m concerned about is the maintenance schedule. If anyone can confirm these things please let me know. I don’t mind putting in a few mods to smooth things out.
Thank you! I have a 2021 and you nailed it…I’ve done all the mods; Vortex, Yosh pipe, tamer, skid plate, etc., and the potential of the bike is there, but it concerns me that it still doesn’t feel sorted. Every time I ride the CRF, I wonder if I should’ve gone with the 701, had to do less to it to have a better, more predictable experience. I’ve seen several CRF450RLs for sale with the mods done, virtually new with a few hundred miles, at the price of a stock bike. It seems the market is telling us something about the CRF450RL riding experience.
I kinda feel the 701 may have been better It has more HP and needs far less work This 450L is a wierd bike lol Thanks for watching
To date, I haven't seen a well sorted 450RL. I don't mind spending $13k on a bike but I do expect it to run right especially after upgrading the CPU and pipe. I grew up racing Honda's and even sold them for 7 years so my love for Honda runs deep but, I need to ride a 690 and or a 701 and see what all the hype is about. Good luck fellas. 👍
an experienced rider will love this bike. yes you have to add a shit ton but that is all because of states like California and emission creeps. The other bikes are heavy as crap and ment for touring. I was a pro motocross racer and when this bike is fitted for you and I mean fitted re: sag, suspension and balanced. it is a beast. For techy single tracks the KTM 350 is it !!!!
Just bought a 2022 RL same bike and you are so right!! Already put $4k into it!! To make it what the fact ery should have already done !! Ordered my ECU 2 And a half months ago . And still waiting !! But should be a real good bike when done !! Tons of real low end power did not think. It would have !! After coming off my 92 Honda CR500 two stroke!!
Wow 4k is a lot but I will probably end up there lol
I feel the same way with my '22 450RL, well said ! So for me, I can wait for the ECU and Yosh full exhst, and have a blast attempting to smooth out and control this frisky stock bike
Thanks for watching Let me know how it turns out or share any inside tips about the bike
I just rode my ‘21 450RL for a couple hours today on dirt roads and trails and love mine. Only got 1700 miles on it but never changed the ecu or pipe. I’m sure it’s better but just changing the gearing and tires among little mods and it’s badass. I did just have to get a te300i for making trails in the woods because that’s where the 450RL’s weakness lies but other than that love it and have avoided spending a couple more thousand. But cheers to the new bike! Enjoy!
@@BornAGoon Vortex and full Yoshimura exhaust- dig it!
So far only tried Map 1 on 5 5 5 , this is a different and better bike!
Used traction control several times the last 3 rides and it helps get the power down without spinning or front wheel lifting.
These Honda 450RL's are just quality bikes. Not as user friendly as my friend's KTM 500 EXCF, but spicy and a blast.
you are so much on point. I bought the 450L in 2019 over the KTM500 especially because of that 450R engine feel that I loved so much from my Trx450 with the HRC kit (agressive cam, jetting and exhaust) from the factory. I've owned a Husky Te501 prior to my honda and it was dangerous in comparison speaking about power delivery haha That engine is so good when well polished, no regrets neither, but it is a damn expensive bike after taking into account all the mods we have to do to bring it where it belongs
Thanks for watching She is a diva but worth it right
I suggest you turn the idle up slightly and report back to see if it helps. I believe it is supposed to be set at 1800+/- 100 rpm. I would set it at like 1900 for break in and see if that helps. I read somewhere alot of the bikes had the idle set too low.
Yea someone mentioned that earlier along with removing the airbox lid I am going to try it
@@BornAGoon I would try just the idle first without removing the airbox lid but good luck let me know
all the reasons you love the CRF are reasons you would love it's competitors, but with them, you wouldn't have to spend the money on the mods to fix the engine. so yeah of course it's a great bike. but after considering the cost to buy, the cost to mod, and comparing THAT expense against a competitor without the mods, which would you prefer to have? that's the choice new buyers are making.
i have a crf450L. i complain about the bike up and down - until i ride it. then i love it. it's great and perfect for what i want. thank god i got mine used with a vortex already installed. otherwise, i'd be a sad camper. i came from a crf250L rally which i didn't like due to excess weight and anemic power so i feel you on the whole "big bikes shouldn't be on trails" train of thought.
if honda puts out a street legal 350 with a lightweight frame and good suspension to compete with the ktm 350 EXC-f, i'll probably trade in because i'd love to shed about 40-50 lbs at the sacrifice of a bit of power. this crf450L is a damn monster and is more power than i'll ever really need.
I feel the same I probably would have gone with a 701 if I could have found one but then I hate to wrench on bikes these days so deep inside I thought the Honda will last longer Once you get it sorted it should be good for good
I bought the 21 CRF 450RL, and to be honest if I had it to do over again I’d buy the KTM 500 instead. I bought the Honda exclusively because of Honda’s reputation for reliability, and I think that’s still a valid benefit, but the CRF just needs too much aftermarket help to become what $10,000 should buy you off the showroom floor. I was stunned at how easy the CRF would stall, even just riding around the neighborhood. Like you said, almost unridable, and certainly less fun when you are constantly trying to keep from getting pitched off the thing when it stalls out… because when it stalls, it stops! Like you hit a brick wall!
A $700 Vortex or one of the few other, even more expensive, options is a must right out of the box. My Vortex completely transformed the CRF, and another $700 for a Yoshi pipe with the CRF 450X header pipe to improve the putt putt factory sound, improved the bike all around… aside from fuel economy. A $350 3.2 gallon fuel tank gives acceptable range for most day rides, and a Seat Concepts seat makes it possible to sit on the thing for more than 30 min. I opted for the additional 2 way switch that plugs right into the Vortex and allows for a second mapping option. The only other shortcoming of the Honda is the factory recommended 600 mile oil chang intervals. Adds another consideration for multipal day overland rides. The KTM needs some of the same upgrades, but not a $700 ECU right out of the box to make it ridable, and let’s not forget the KTM is about 50 lbs lighter too, which is significant! Once the Honda is done right it’s a great light adventure bike!
Thanks for watching and taking the time to comment
I also have a 22 RL,
I have not had much stalling but it gets better with more miles, It built real tight engine wise 3rd ring on the piston, I bet in the future these will be coveted like the XR's
Good to hear Thanks for watching and keep me updated on your progress with the bike
Great review, I chose the 300l rally over this because of service intervals, I realise the power difference is quite significant but my skill levels off road would not do this bike justice. I like your thoughts on bike mods, mine was similar till I put some extra weight on the crf300 - suspension bottomed out easily. Subscribed.
Thanks for watching The 450RL has been awesome so far and trouble free Would love to take a spin on that 300
Reminds me of my old 650R. Had to uncork (easy) and fix the down right dangerous pogo stick stock suspension. Had Precision Concepts give me the Johnny Campbell makeover and wow, bye bye crashing hello ripping through the Mojave for 10 years of trouble free good times.
Hondas last forever Thanks for watching The Mojave is a great place to ride
I have the identical bike. I had the stalling issues in the beginning I turned the idle up and never had an issue again. The husky are big bucks you get what you pay for. This bike has its pros and cons don’t get me wrong. The seat sucks and so do the tires. But overall I think it’s a great bike with plenty of power. Like they they say there a seat for anyones ass and to each his own. Be safe love you channel.
THanks for watching Dominick
I have a 22 crf450rl and went with a power commander and throttle tamer and I found it to be much better on jerkiness both in acceleration and throttle off at speed. I dont think you need the Vortex or changing the exhaust. I also ride 1 gear higher which seems to really make a difference. I'm not understanding the level of mods everyone thinks you need for this bike it just doesn't. You can get it all accomplished for under $500. Love this bike more and more with every additional ride
Thanks for the tips I think I am going to try that I believe there is a way to fix this without spending 800 bucks
I wouldn't even get the throttle tamer right away. Just add the power commander and reroute the throttle cable through the bars. I added $20 bar risers and rerouted the cable in addition to the throttle tamer but if I had to do it again I probably would have stopped at the cable reroute. Costs nothing to do that and it helps. The other thing is to ride it a gear up. Consciously doing that helped alot off road. Stick with it and give it some miles it breaks in and settled out.
update. I love this bike now !! check out my youtube video of all of my mods. I am still waiting for my Vortex, but taking out the spark arrester and a throttle tamer, it is sick. I had it dialed in for me, with sag and suspension, and now it is epic. Just did 4 days of riding in the San Juans and it kicked ass. great engine braking, with zero stalls. LOVE HER
Way to go Earl
The 450's stall much easier than the Euro 500's from my experience. I owned an 06 ktm 525 prior to my 2019 450x and it was a tractor. I got out of almost every gnarly situation at slow speeds without stalling. The Honda just requires more clutch work. There's no permanent cure unless you buy a Rekluse X or CX Auto, but those are so expensive! BTW, I have the vortex and it does make the bike run better and get rid of flameouts but it won't cure stalling.
Do you have the pipe to go with the vortex
@@BornAGoon Yeah, I just have the FMF Q4 Slip-on. Baffle and spark arrest were left IN. There’s a guy who sells an adapter for the L header so you don’t spend big bucks on a full system. I’ve also been testing with the air boot lid on/off. Originally, I had the fuel trims all set to 5 with the air filter cover OFF. It made the bike more snappy and powerful. Now I set the fuel to 3 (low,med,high) and have the air cover ON. Wow, it is so smooth and easy to ride anywhere. Plus it’s even quieter now! I would go one step at a time. Highly suggest getting the vortex or any ECU and trying it with the stock pipe first. Then if you want even more power, go for an exhaust upgrade.
I felt the same, but 3000$ later I really like it. The problem is that Honda made it legal for California. Exhaust change = 11 hrp.
I have Rally 300, yep Honda is delivering sub standard bikes off the showroom floor. My Rally, yep poor fueling plus bubble gum suspension plus choked up motor. The bike has great potential (reason I bought it), but as delivered is very disappointing. I am $2500 into suspension, ECU, cams, exh.....Now it is a good bike.
Cant believe the 450RL controversy is still a thing. Everyone who owns one has done all the research and reviews before walking into the showroom and signing papers. You all know exactly what your getting, you all know the mods are a must, no different than any other bike. Yes I did all the basic mods and a few other wants. 2k miles later and still have zero regrets. I love this bike. With a 500exc parked next to it in the garage and plenty of seat time on that as well I realize I'm glad I chose the Honda over the KTM. It's a real dualsport with high performance that oozes Honda quality fit and finish and ergos that shine over any other DS out there. The KTM is a dirtbike that has a few cheap add-ons to make it street legal, you can look at stats all day but in the field the Honda isn't giving up anything other than a few more pounds. Most people want more HP but really don't know how to use it....I already have other offroad bikes with more power
you would be surprised how many just buy the bike with no research
I've had it a year now (22 450rl) and so far??? Not a mod a one, I love this bike. My dad has the 250l and it is a DOG lol, more like an off road scooter. Maybe I'll get an exu one day but for now perfect.
I have a 21 RL and agree with your comments. The bike pretty much sucked out of the box. Stalled constantly, ran hot and just felt pent up! Really had me second guessing my decision. But, after the Vortex, Yoshi, a decent seat I could stand to sit on, some dirt tires, deleting the duck tail, some hand guards, a skid plate, and a few other cosmetic changes, it is a Diamond for sure… as long as you keep it on the bigger trails! She’s just too heavy for the tight single track riding. For that I bought a new GasGas EC300 last week!
I find it to be light on the trails but I am coming from a 300 pound adv bike so its tiny lol
The RL is aweful close to 300 lb in stock form, but I know what you mean. I had a KLR 650 that I got real tired of picking up on the trail.
I know we're talking two very different worlds here but i have a 450r and a 250RX. No dual sport will ever feel adequate offroad IMO. I used to have the 250RL and i hated it. The dual sports try to do too many things and fail at all of them. I dont mind trucking to the track.
I bought the 2019 crf450x and i absolutely love it
Nice work
GREAT rundown. Earned a subscriber!
Thank you and thanks for the sub
CRF450L/RL rocks🤙 Baja Proven. Sure its choked up stock (thanks California) but that's the only way they could get it approved for sale in all 50 states. Exhaust and ecu is a game changer and makes a "good" bike a "great"one.
It is a good bike once sorted
I'm on the hook for a 2022 CRF450L but was originally going for a 2022 FE501. now I don't know what to do and put down a deposit today for the CRF.
are the flamoeouts really a problem? And is honda going to be overall more reliable?
Brilliant perspectives on this machine.
Thank you
Man I’m on a Tiger 800 as well. I’ve got remorse for sure. I’m going with the KTM 500 next time.
How do you like the Tiger I love mine but I got tired of trying to pick it up lol
@@BornAGoon same man. I like to ride in the dirt and it’s just too heavy. Otherwise no issues with it and it’s a great forest road bike. I would ride it across country tomorrow no doubt but corral canyon trails no way. You made it look easy dude. Palomar truck is fun with it.
My 2008 Husky TE450 has the exact same flameout issues. I think it’s a fuel injection thing, if I am much better on my clutch work it doesn’t happen.
Thanks for watching How do you like the 450 overall
@@BornAGoon I have had it ten years, it keeps going but it’s not my favorite bike. Really want a CRF. Nice video, btw.
Should trade it in for a KTM 500 OR Husky 501
I just added the Vortex ECU and full Yoshi pipe - I could only ride it in 27 degree weather for about 15 minutes - Still seems Jerky???? What map did you choose for the ECU ?
I havent added the ECU yet I have to wait another month to get it shipped to me I will do a video on the settings when I get it Hopefully you get yours sorted
Your glove wanted some attention 😆😆😆. So you road raced? Would you ever consider doing some track day videos or sport bike related videos. Thank you. I finally subbed. Btw, I’m a fan of SWM. Waiting for the 500RE to get homologated.
I would love to do track days and get back on a proper sportbike Hope to do that soon
@@BornAGoon I lean more towards road bikes. I hope to see you do some road bike videos. Thank you.
I was at my Honda Dealership just the other day and could have walked away with a CRF 450 Enduro (street legal) 2021 by RedMoto for just 9 Grand....kind of glad I didn´t though...
That sounds like a good deal
So if i can get a 450R at a good price do they make a ECU that makes it a good trail bike?
Well, when you get a ktm or husky 300 and put all the guards and tires and radiator fan and all that, your basically at the same price
Very true
The bike didn’t like being called a lump of coal at 1:03. It threw your glove down and challenged you to a dual…(sport).
Lol that was clever Little baby red didn't like it
Good review. Think I’ll stick with the CRF300L. I’m not skilled enough for the CRF450RL anyways 😂
lol you have the skill Its in there
I was really lucky. I found a 2019 WITH ALL THE MODS DONE FOR $10,000 and it only had 650 miles on it. I just got it 2 weeks ago and the damn thing hauls ass.
I'm putting the throttle tamer on this weekend. I also need to lower the pegs if I can and put some risers on the bars. What a fun bike to ride. If anyone has any recommendations for lowing the pegs please let me know.
Thanks for watching let me know what you think of the tamer
Hey mate, just got why license and thinking about getting this. I will be 75% on road, 25% off road. what mods do you recommend? thank you
I did a mod list here ua-cam.com/video/Z-aPWWJK0_Y/v-deo.html I think this is a good start
Should I go with the 2022 CRF450L or 2022 FE501?
CANNOT DECIDE
lol tough one There is less work to do on the Husky 501 but the 450 RL is way less buzzy on the freeway and the attention to detail is way better Both are great bikes but I chose the Honda for those reasons because I ride 40 miles to trails
@@BornAGoon not the RL, the 450L is what I'm talking about. I've heard about flameouts and people being upset that it's underwhelming from the factory.
@@njinvision5463 The 450L and RL are underwhelming in stock form I have not had flameout issues but I have had jerky throttle issues You will need to invest in the Vortex ECU to make the bike run properly The 501 is a better motor out of the box but it is seriously buzzy on the road
I’m seriously considering the 450L after having a Husky TE 510 for a decade and 12000 miles. A friend only put 3000 miles on his ( same year) Husky and is willing to sell it to me for 1/3 of what a new bike would cost. I don’t want to re-live all of the previous Husky (reliability) issues so am wary going Euro again. Honda is better in reliability if that is something important to you
I have the 2019 crf450l. Can I change the ecu and that’s it? Do I have to change the pipe with the ecu?
You do not need to change the pipe
i need to get it lowered. it's about 3 inches too tall.
We’re in Vegas too. We should talk 450l sometime
Yes we should
@@BornAGoon TACO MOTO will help uncork your ride. They are way smart.
It should perform just like my 2019 crf450x it is the exact same engine and emissions butt i want that bike just because it's street legal that's the only reason i want to change from my x
Thats why I bought it over the X and the others I wanted street legal
why not buy the 650L instead?
The 450RL has so much more upside potential. The 650 is nice but very outdated
I will stick with my Cr250 two stroke.
What's the stand over height like ? It is a very tall Bike ? I'm looking hard for a used one. Saw an 2018 that the guy wanted $8k for it....smh...
It's like 38 inches high For 8k I would buy that bike
@@BornAGoon it's an R not street legal. I cant seem to find any that are reasonable, what few I do find. Just dont want to spend $15k right now, but would spend half that on a used one.....maybe ill just get a DRZ400 for now...my KLR 650 is way too heavy for the trails I want to ride on...
You can build a twin carbed XR600 from the 80s, shit on everyone at the dunes.
probably
I have a 2021 450 RL can I get the bike started put a new battery in but my starter main post terminal is ringing to ground tripping the circuit breaker on my battery does anybody have that same issue
I have not heard of that Have you found a solution to this?
on my new fe501 i also had to buy the vortec ecu on day one. just riding it the header was glowing. sucks to drop that much coin on it, but it is what it is lol. also looks like superstition
I wouldnt think you need to do that on a 501 I rode one of those and it seemed good but it wasn't a long ride
XR650R
long live the king
Seems like Honda would fix them.
You would think
After you re build the head. Buy a yamaha WR 450😢
Stop calling it little baby red when you have to tip toe it haha
God bless
Just buy a WR450. Waay more power, Street legal, Cheaper. Honestly How can Honda release a bike that is virtually unridable.
The wr 450 isn't street legal here or I would have thought about it
Way too expensive for what it is. More than 2x more than 250l. I’d but a Tenere or Africa twin before that
I wonder sometimes if I should have done the same
U comming from racing,u are talking from a prospective of professional rider ,who knows how to ride a bike and enduro bike ,about a complete amateur to enduro and someone who didn’t ride even street bike for decades ,beginner,is the ECU upgrade needed for a heavy,tall rider ? 300lbs + …
just get a T7 for that money
Yea but a T7 cant go where this one can unless you are Pol Tarres
I heard the 300 is better....
Could be maybe out of the box but the upside to the 450RL is way higher and way more expensive lol