Honda recalls CRF450R in the US

Japanese motorcycle manufacturing giant, Honda, is recalling their motocross bike, the CRF450R in the US. The recall affects 5,700 units.

The recall is due to a potentially defective transmission countershaft fifth gear.The gear is used for engaging third gear and may break under certain riding conditions causing the transmission to seize. This could cause the rear wheel to lock posing a high risk to the rider.

Honda is in the process of contacting affected owners who will be asked to bring in their bike for a check-up and get the issue fixed for free. Although no recall is good news for any manufacturer, it shows that they are diligent in fixing problems if it occurs.

The CRF450R uses an aluminium twin tube frame that houses a 449cc single-cylinder liquid cooled engine that is mated to a five-speed gearbox. The bike weighs110kg and sits on 49mm Showa forks upfront and a Showa monoshock for the rear.

The motocross bike is not available in India and is unlikely to reach Indian shores anytime soon.