Motox bikes - wonderful

Kids motox it aint - So what is it?

Motox Bikes: Variety and Challenge.

Motocross bikes around the world have a variety of frame and engine sizes. The 450 is a popular size for racing because it demands incredible handling skills and expertise.

Many consider the 450 the top form of MX racing competition around the world. Manufacturers focus much of their research and development on 450 Motox bikes because of that belief.

Technology has led to the introduction of fuel injection to the 450s, increasing performance and results in both supercross and motocross.

Common 450cc dirt bikes in the AMA Motocross Championship include the Kawasaki KX450F, Suzuki RM-Z450, Honda CRF450R, Yamaha YZ450F and KTM 450 SX-F. The FIM Motocross World Championship in Europe lists the 450 MX division as MX1.

Other 450cc machines that enter include Husqvarna (you probably recognize the name from their excellent chainsaws and Viking sewing machines), Aprilia (the only one using a twin-cylinder engine in Motox bikes) and TM racing motorcycles.

Combining determination and mechanical perfection.

Is the rider responsible for the bike's success or is the bike responsible for the rider's success?

It is really a combination of both and if one or the other is superlative in comparison to others, it usually produces a winning combination.

The Motorcycle USA 450 Motocross Shootout Winning motox bikes include the Honda CRF450R in 2003, 2005 and 2011, the Kawasaki KX450F in 2006 and 2009, and the Yamaha YZ450F in 2007 and KTM 450 SX-F in 2010.

A race-inspired company, Honda dirt bikes were a natural progression. Honda released the ‘Elsinore' in 1970 as its first serious dirt bike. Next came the SL125, quickly upgraded to a 250cc engine.

A Honda CRF450X won the Baja 1000, an off-road race of cars, trucks, dune buggies, ATVs and motorcyclists in Mexico's Baja California, in 2006. Many feel the CRF450 is the most popular mid- capacity four-stroke motocrosser today.

Chances are good that when looking for used motox bikes you will find a Honda CRF450 for sale. The 2009 CRF450 got some upgrades, such as fuel injection. Better fuel economy and power enabled a smaller fuel tank and capacity, decreasing weight.

Changes to the decompressor and crankcase shaved off some weight. New designs and new plastics slimmed the bike. 2009 saw fork size increased to 48mm and a change to the steering damper for smoother handling.

While they were making improvements, Honda addressed the 2009 CFR250, adding a new cylinder head to improve power. The engine is lighter than the 2008 model. Internal changes to the transmission enable smoother shifting under load. Redesigned brake rotors on the 450 and 250 save weight.

Kawasaki, another respected name in 2-wheeled cycles, has made a number of changes on the 2012 KX450F, mainly designed to make it leaner and easier to handle.

The more people involved in this sport and involved in competition, the more response we will see from the manufacturers to get the best handling, economical and safe motox bikes out to the motocross public.

It is definitely a challenge to make a one size fits all bike. Year by year, changes are being made to accommodate riders and establish performance. This is a great time to enjoy the sport!

Just remember to get some well-fitting motoX boots and a helmet, and don’t spend too long in those talk forums, you need your time spent on the track.