[mad99horizon]

Looking at purchasing a 2002 450, trying to do as much research for that year/model. I have been seeing alot of talk on the valves, wondering what the deal is with replacing them. Was this a honda flaw or common among 4 strokes. I am not going to be an extreme rider, just looking to have some fun.

[Asmith]

Welcome to the site!!!

I don't have any exact answers, but I have heard that the 2002 CRF 450R had issues with the valve train and the seats. Some other models have experienced this also however I have heard that it is more likely on that year.

[mad99horizon]

Wondering is their any good websites that I could do some reseach on.

[[email protected]]

Wondering is their any good websites that I could do some reseach on

This site is pretty good.
All modern 4 strokes, ALL, all that rev at 10K or higher routinely will eventually require valve replacement /valve adjustment/new seats or head, rebuilds of the top end,etc.
The 02's were a little more delicate than later models are, they could leak dirt I believe through a part of the airbox I think for one,and had less durable valve seats.
A five year old high performance thumper of any brand is a risky proposition unless immaculately and thoroughly maintained, and I mean thoroughly.
There are good 02's, but since you are inexperienced (not an insult, if you weren't inexperienced you'd know this stuff) I sure wouldn't be buying a potential money pit like a 5 year old 4 stroke race bike.
If I did I'd have a highly experienced brand specific to what you're looking at mechanic with me, and there'd be a compression test involved.
It is internet drivel that Honda CRF's have any more problems than any other high performance thumper .
Honda CRF's are some of the finest off road bikes ever made, many think they are the best.
When they do need the certain to happen rebuild they are among the cheapest to do so as far as parts prices go, WAY less than Yamaha YZF/WR's for instance.
The only way to show that that is a fact is numbers of repeat owners, and Honda has that covered in spades.
If you go to a KTM/Kawasaki/Yamaha/Suzuki web site you're going to read about valve/heads/seats/cam chains/pistons needing replacd on their bikes.
These new age thumpers are a blast, but maintenance free they are not. If you DO get a new one and follow the manual you will be rewarded with a bike that will go well over 200 hours befor anything major is needed if then, and you'll be loving it. Cut corners and treat it like an old quad and it'll be junk in a year.
Welcome to the site, let us know more about your experience level and what kind of riding you want to do !

[braap207]

If your looking to just have fun and enjoy some trails and the bike then you will be fine, if the bike is starting fine and you can start it cold in less than 10 kicks then you don't need any valves. Extreme riding/racing wears down the shims, everyday riding will allow you to only shim them maybe once a year. My first 4-stroke was a 91 WXE350 Husqvarna, I road it 4 years on trails and never shimmed a valve or changed ANYTHING! Get it and ride it!