We thoroughly test the 2024 Honda CRF450RL Dual Sport through the lens of experienced adventure riders. This review takes a standard bike and a Vortex modified bike to the ultimate testing ground, the Victorian High Country and tests their performance head to head. We also compare the adventure credentials of this bike, to the mighty Honda CRF300 Rally a proven adventure mount.

Finally, racing legend Chris Watson will present his Honda CRF400RL adventure bike build and will provide detailed costings.

I caution, this test is about looking at this bike through the eyes of two experienced adventurers. For those new to adventure or considering their first bike this review will give you some ideas, even if you’re not interested in the Honda. For the old hands there’s some head to head engine performance comparisons with some surprising results.

We’ve got two versions, the bike ridden straight off the showroom floor and a slightly modified version with Vortex Ignition that has been built by motorcycle legend Daryl Beattie. Chris Watson also a motorcycle legend showcases his build.

This will be a warts and all review with detailed comparisons between engine performance, fuel economy, and suspension. And finally will compare the bike to it’s key competitors in the adventure world. It may surprise you, despite a smaller engine size the mighty Honda CRF300 Rally gives the 450 a run for it’s money as an adventure mount.

small adventure motorcycle

CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction
02:50 First Impressions
05:16 Engine Performance
10:40 Suspension & Handling
19:00 Brakes/Ergos
23:00 Good Bad Ugly
25:00 CRF300 Rally comparison
28:30 Chris Watson build