[Bikebuster56]

Hi guys -
I'm new to crf's but not to bikes, riding or wrenching. I'm considering buying a 450x to use as a dualsport. Figure an X model is lighter than the L and a little less expensive. I can ad the minimum to pass the required dot requirements myself for very little. Looking at later model used carbureted bikes, and also the new version with efi & 6 speeds. The mods I'll be looking at doing will be a comfortable seat, larger tank, and rekluse clutch, besides basic standard items like skid plate, hand guards, etc etc.
Looking for your knowledge and experience and older models vs new models.
Thanks to all.

[JimDirt]

Welcome to the site !!

I have a 06 and love it , although I did not Dual Sport it , I ride it a lot off road , and the only issue with the older gen bikes is the Titanium Intake valves from dirt getting past the air filter , switch to Stainless , and never look back , mine has gone since 2006 without the need for a valve adjustment ... , only other mods were changing gearing for trail riding (13/52) and going with Tubliss (no flats) , and doing the "Pink Wire Mod" (changes the mapping and timing slightly for more punch) , done the larger AP cover , and revalved (myself) the suspension and added a Kouba link ( I have short legs and bad hips *I am 61 and have a lot of injuries ** , so it makes it easier getting on/off) ..... it is great for Single Track , and open desert , and I have even run a few laps on the MX track with it , and of road style GP tracks and it does just fine ....

The new gen X (newest) I have not ridden yet , so I can't give a comparison , as I do not know anyone who has one , most of my friends ride MX bikes and usually EFI MX bikes , which is what I mainly ride myself (2020 450R) as I mainly ride MX , some of them also ride older or newer 2 strokes (last gen CR250's ,YZ250's , KX 250's , etc.)

But as far as the old gen (05-17 (they did not make a X for 18 , just sold rebranded 17's) , they are the staple of a Honda off road , easily dual sported bike , and is the #1 choice for Baja .... I won't be getting rid of my X anytime soon ..

Hope that helps some ...