Is A 2007 Honda CRF450R As Good As We Remember?

My good friend Zeb Armstrong was nice enough to let me ride his BRAND NEW 2007 Honda CRF450R and compare it to our 2025 CRF450R test machine. Is the 2007 CRF450R is as good as we remember? Does it even compare to the 2025 model? Sit back and listen as we go over what an 18 year R&D difference feels like.

[@brentgriffiths17]

Marketplace prices are about to skyrocket on these things now lol great video!

[@Pacmire]

This is the last bike I owned, bought it brand new and changed the springs, re-valved the suspension, installed pro-circuit exhaust.. what an incredible bike - felt like an extension of the body and power was sick with carburettor. After I sold it in 2009 I rode the injected 2009 version and hated it. Fast forward 17 years and now I just bought a 2024 YZ250.. another carbureted, kickstarted bike.. love the simplicity!

[@andreasstefanou5898]

2023 Yz250 here. I am in love with that bike.

[@promxrippa]

Still kickin my 06 rm250, thing never lets me down

[@4Him346]

I just acquired my old 2006 Crf250r I bought new in 06 I sold it to my folks neighbor, I sold it with 21.6 hours I just bought it back with 21.8 hours on it and it’s as good as I remember and I’m in love all over again ❤

[@jessetrauma556]

I'm really glad you did this. I've been saying for years that the 08 crf450 was the last good motocross bike Honda built, people thought I was crazy.

[@thenotoriousemblem2986]

The ergonomics and low end pull of the 05-08 were unparalleled to anything of that era, they had it gold.

[@TheMxboy199]

2016 Crf 250 would like a word

[@bottomupbuilds]

I had a 2007 as well, my favorite feature of the bike was how well your knee would slot into the radiator shroud when you're turning and have a leg out.

[@shanesm311]

Just rode an 08 last year, it handled so good on the track. Bike could be a contender today I'd say.

[@garrett3234]

My dad and I full restored an 05 we got blown up for 400 bucks all oem down to plastics and it is a ripper and so fun! Long live the carb 4 strokes

[@joshmoore526]

Literally yesterday, I was thinking about how awesome my brand new 2007 crf450r was. Then today, BAM here you are, just telling us how amazing it is. You beat me to it. I’ve been looking for one to do a frame up on it. Love thisssss❤❤

[@cwtv716]

Great Video. I absolutely loved and laughed out loud, even though I’m by myself, when you made the comment “if you can’t kickstart a bike, you shouldn’t be riding” 😂 Love that ❤

[@pags1981]

Honda put a load of R&D into that generation, I remember seeing Ben Townley on one at Pukekohe tearing around the track using low RPM. Great bikes.

[@zm6771]

I usually dislike videos of someone talking to the camera, but I can listen to Keefer talk about bikes for hours. His input is always useful and insightful.

[@Keeferinctesting]

The face on the other hand... HAHA.

[@lmtada]

Are you his wife.

[@zm6771]

@@lmtada does a man crush count? 😂 But really... I was surprised that I watched this whole video because, as I said, I rarely like "talking to the camera" vids.

[@BlizzyBravado127]

I picked up a 07 crf250r about 2 months ago, I literally slapped a new clutch in, brake pads, n suspension, gassed her up and obviously aside from regular maintenance, it's been not only rock solid but an absolute blast to ride, I have put like 600 miles on the bike, 20 or so hrs and the things has impressed me at every turn... so much so that im gonna rebuild her this winter so she's completely mint and dialed in by next spring..

[@Boots67]

Those 05-08 era CRF250’s are a bit finicky in the valves. I constantly had to adjust them. When they were within spec it would rip. Granted I was riding 3 times a week and racing the weekends

[@brenton900]

Riding a slow bike fast will always put a smile on your face. Trying to ride a fast bike slow is never fun.

[@eriksforestryvision8751]

Like an old 450 is slow lol

[@NickW90]

@@eriksforestryvision8751i used to own an 07 yz450f and compared to the current yz450f that thing was a turd

[@CodySimoncelli-of7xx]

Buddy, this isn’t a 125.

[@Boots67]

2006 CRF450R: 55hp 2024 CRF450R: 51hp Make your comment make sense

[@primaltones]

I want one now

[@Its-Moto-Time]

i just finished doing the top end on my 08 crf450r. It now starts in only a kick or two & pulls hard. Great bike for sure.

[@thomashussey5159]

Best reviewer in the business by far. Keefers knowledge is unparalleled.

[@Boots67]

My 2006 had a 13:1 CP piston, stage 1 hot cam, ported, kibblewhite valves, weisco clutch basket, Enzo suspension, yosh exhaust. Raced it in the intermediate class all the way through 2014. Would rip holeshots against all the new bikes quite often.

[@JUSTINHAWKSMITH]

Dude I’ve been so pumped for this thank you for posting it so fast. I can’t wait to see even more content from this. So cool man keep up the amazing content

[@Keeferinctesting]

Racer X video will have A LOT more. This is just an d'oeuvres.

[@a.rankin.68]

Yo I have been waiting for it too. I built a 2005 CRF250R last year with Carillo long rod and cp long rod piston, I jetted it, ported it. Bike was awesome. Love the chassis.

[@JUSTINHAWKSMITH]

@@a.rankin.68 I wanna see a 07 body style yz450f compared to the new yz450f too hahaha that would be sick

[@a.rankin.68]

@@JUSTINHAWKSMITH the 07-09 yz450 actually wasn’t bad. Shrouds would get stuck in boot when dragging bar tho.

[@Jb-mp1in]

I love Keefer he breaks things down better than anyone else in the business I hope he starts putting out more content

[@Keeferinctesting]

@@Jb-mp1in Thanks! There some other great media sources out there as well but we appreciate you watching what we put out.

[@paulgriffin7273]

Only 5 HP down. Wow. I bet you could easily get that back if you wanted too. Ship it to Thailand, get copies made for $5k! Let’s go!

[@ahsnap9103]

​@@paulgriffin7273already available, test is on yt

[@ckkelley9486]

​@Keeferinctesting I'm pretty sure the little lever above the clutch lever is the hot start. I think this bike had an auto compression release. I could be wrong though. Love all your content!

[@rik-1-j6n]

@@Keeferinctesting Keefer what current 2025 450 model is closest to the 07 frame comfort and handling in your opinion?

[@mikemilani3991]

Jim Haeseker IS one of the best guys to work with! I have been fortunate and have had the pleasure of having Jim work on my 22' CRF 450 and my sons 22' YZ250F. I have referred 3 of my good friends to Jim and they all have had the best experience working with Jim and extremely satisfied with his work. If you ever need any engine work and have the opportunity to work with Jim you owe it to yourself to do so. Thank you for the great video!

[@graemebarrett7406]

I was reading the article with keefers voice in my head. Then I just imagined Daarrrkkk...

[@chadsugden411]

MY 2008 KX250F to this day was my fav bike i ever owned, it was just so comforable i could charge on it for 15 mins after not riding for a month. and i know these frames were very similar between the kx and crf

[@CR250rSMITH]

you found a gem, that's a rare find a bike that old with that number of hours. Crazy thing is an average weekend warrior would feel more comfortable on that 07 then a 11,000 2025 lol

[@DHazlett846]

We'd love to see you ride this thing man! That's one of the most nostalgic bikes in my 28 years of life..

[@Keeferinctesting]

Racer X video out later today! More in depth and riding shots.

[@skooli2]

I bought my '07 as new overstock in 2008. My kid starting riding 50's in 2012, and he started getting all the new bikes. So I've been riding and racing it ever since. It's been through a few cosmetic changes, but has remained mostly stock. I do remember feeling like it was something special as I was moving up from an '05 2 stroke.

[@jyost777]

That's the attraction to 350's... A little less power makes it easier to ride fast with less fatigue. Sounds like a great performing Vet Class bike to this day.

[@warrenyoung7503]

I had one new. It was way better than the other bikes of its time.

[@lauriehodgson4471]

I brought a new 07 crf450r & had the best season ever in South Australian mx championships (35 & over vets) Definitely a noble stead! 😅

[@rogerthatgarage]

I had a 07 crf450 back then. It was my first 4 stroke. One of my favorite bikes to this day. Also spent some time on a 08 crf450x. Such great motors

[@SurfRinseRepeat]

This was an awesome idea keep them coming Keefer!

[@paulmcmullen914]

This is excellent! Thanks! I was out of riding for a number of years and when I came back I was a little surprised that the bikes didn’t seem that much better than when I left. The year to year “advancement” of bikes sure seems overrated.

[@davidciesielski8251]

Hi, I have an 08, It has 2mm more trail than the 07. Just last year I treated to a port job, new valves, and stage 2 Hot cam and 13 to 1 piston .... (I weigh 255 with gear and live at 5000 feet) It also has a big front rotor and Precision Concepts suspension. It is the nicest dirt bike I have ever ridden.

[@necromancer1976]

I’ve been thinking about putting 07 triple clamps on my 08…

[@joshmx28]

Isn’t that a hot start lever not compression release?

[@smokeyaallday]

Yep... decomp is done at the cam

[@Nicky_Pin_It]

Yes, it opens a passage in the carb to lean it out and allows the bike to not flood when starting hot. This is a common confusion point because alot of the 80's/90's 4 strokes had "backup" comp releases mounted in the same spot

[@insanetaco98]

Yup the quads had it too. Hot start plunger in the carb

[@briandavid3159]

Nice! thank you! Just completed a complete rebuild on 06 x model

[@zsrmx1]

Thank you for your service, for the man that previously owned the bike. Hope all is well.

[@someoneyouknow96]

I have a 04 crf450. Never done anything to it other than change the oil and filter. Im on stock bottom end, stock top end and the bike is in great shape. I also have a 22 kx450. Ive been taking both bikes to the dunes. The last 2 times ive only rode the honda. They ride fairly similar. They jump similar but when Im "freeriding" the honda is softer. Its much more plush. I love it. Ive been told its the midvalve spring. Im not sure but its great. Obviously, the kawi is much more aggressive and more powerful but i wouldnt say its way more powerful. The honda is just more mild and linear.

[@rah_84]

Pretty incredible that Honda made a bike that good in the very early stages of 4 strokes

[@billyarsenault1970]

They still using that same engine today I think- with just a few refinements along the way. I’m getting ready to ride a 2024 RL to work up here in NH and amI hoping I can sell it for 5k in 15 years 😅. But for a beat up 54 year old who partied like Ozzy it’s getting late in the game for me and the old RL will be seeing me to the grave.

[@AZFarmFun-hp1cu]

It’s all perspective. I feel like the 1979 XR80 I had, or the 1984 XR200 I had as a kid were the “early stages”..

[@gwm88]

Makes me feel good. I bought an 07 brand new and still have it. Basically bone stock with the exception of cosmetic stuff. Love it.

[@Vtec1mike]

This is so awesome Keeler. Thank you for doing this. I have a 2006 CR 250 and that thing feels like butter to me the chassis.

[@panic-revv85]

I had an 06 yz450f a few years ago, i used that bike for desert racing. I miss it, such a solid bike and much more stable than my new ktm.

[@straighttimestirrups]

Makes sense! I had one for MX and couldn’t get it to turn for shit, lol!

[@ahsnap9103]

​@@straighttimestirrupscause the front wheel is in the air lol😂 needs a flywheel weight to make it track better imo I had an 08 YZ450 with a DRD ti exhaust and it ripped.

[@panic-revv85]

@straighttimestirrups oh, it didn't corner lol! Especially with a 3.2g tank. It would eat miles of sand whoops though.

[@samgrove1888]

I have 2 06s and an 05 love them such and always looking for more

[@Kaabe939]

That lever is not a compression release! Also, I have an 06 in the same condition as the one you ride here. My brother has a 24 rwe with vortex ecu (twisted dev mapping), high compression piston, power flow kit. My 06 hits pulls all the way through the rpm range harder than his rwe. I will say the suspension on the rwe out of the box was better than the 06. But that's where the better for the 2024 stops. The 06 does everything else, much much better in stock form over a modded 2024 we for me. Of course this is my opinion! Love the video!!!

[@Kaabe939]

The 24 rwe over rev is better than the 06 also. Forgot to add that to my prognosis😊

[@silver.d1]

I have an 08 Yz450f (enduro guy, I think I did moto twice lol) and man I love this bike, it's so easy to ride, one kick and it's running. I do Cross Country mostly and some hard enduro, the bike performs so nice, the KyB suspension is amazing and the engine is really linear and easy to ride. I believe that those 07/08 bikes are perfect for the average guy out there. Great video Keef, cheers from Argentina!

[@Superdisco199]

Yeah the 07 was sweet offroad or on a track. Ali frame design has gone backywards

[@petew1810]

Still got my 07 CRF450. Awesome machine, raced until 2 years ago. Love it over the 2023 I race now.

[@KyleWolfe]

I had a 2005 and absolutely loved it. One of my favorite bikes ever. No I want one!

[@steelYZ65]

You gotta get trey canard to ride it!

[@DeeOhDoubleB]

Interesting that a 20ish year old bike is still relevant and holds up against something brand new. If you tried that comparison in 2007 with a 1989 CR250 it would go a bit differently.

[@michaelcarberry594]

Must be a great bike. My '03 CRF450R taught me about going fast on a dirt bike. What awesome things Honda can sometimes build.

[@juanleggin7347]

Last bike I rode competitively. High comp piston and suspension. Loved that bike.

[@mattheath3773]

Have a 2007 crf450r in the shed in bits. This makes me wanna get my finger out and put it back together

[@DTM45]

I had an 06’, holeshot beast. Good machine.

[@Keeferinctesting]

GREAT, machine!

[@wessish]

i took over my dads 07 as my first 450, its my track bike still. love it.

[@chrisvozza6530]

Wow yes a gem indeed . Sweet find C.K.

[@marksvideochannel3592]

Yep, and thats what kick starts the vintage 4-stroke craze!!! :)

[@patrickrodriguez320]

I have a 2008 crf450r black edition and I'll never part with it. I bought it in May of 2022 in mint condition after not riding for 3-4 years. And this thing was just magic. I don't remember any other bike feelings this comfortable and perfect geometry and handling. I believe it's still the holy Grail of 4 strokes and I probably wouldn't have gone head first back into riding like an obsession if I had gotten a crappy model of mid-2010s bike. The 07-08 just can't be explained until you ride it. It feels almost tailored

[@baby-sharkgto4902]

I had the 06 and 08, both new. Awesome bikes.

[@kunsunrethy]

Like how we being older bikes to compare to the new ones. When you're looking for a review of an older bike, it's like a needle in a haystack. Rocking my 08 250R, love that comfortable feel, and I'm a beginner. The bike feels easy on the turns and very stable.

[@AOL0321]

Very cool review! The more things change, the more they stay the same! Coming back full cycle!

[@foxxrider250r]

Had an 07 250r . Loved the hell out of that bike. Sounded so good

[@drweedon]

I still ride my 06 CRF450. Honestly it still is fun to ride as it's a beast. If I had the money to revalve the suspension and a Lectron carb the the bike will keep pace with any bike out there! See you at Pala on Saturday!

[@dealspeed6756]

I had an 05 crf450 in 06. Loved that bike.

[@Shogun35FTW]

Thank god still got my 08 from brand new. And it’s the only 450 I’ve ever ridden lol Gotta love my decompression lever to. So glad it’s connected to my carb. Haha Jesus keefer

[@joski9030]

I had the ‘07 it was a joy to ride jumped really well , handled great pulled like a train

[@paulmryglod4802]

Still have my 05. Love it.

[@Resik307]

more of these keefer would love to see you ride villopoto kawi back in the day.

[@DRT81K]

Hey Keefer, I'd love to see a comparison between this 2007 CRF and the 2024 Suzuki 450. Both kick start bikes too.

[@MClyne24]

So cool man! Not only were they good to ride but they look awesome too IMO! If only ya had this at lorettas! 😂

[@nikolasgibson3438]

I got a 98 YZ400F and it is better in ruts and hardback than my 21 YZ450FX. Same thing you said, front end feel and lean angle traction. But stock brakes and suspension sucked back then.

[@Keeferinctesting]

Now that would be a good test!

[@tcmx712]

Well that generation of yz450f's are known as the worst cornering bikes made

[@sumpter737]

My best Yamaha 450 was my 09 got the suspension dialed in won some championships on it. Sold it got a 2011 instantly regret it 😂

[@z50king29]

Amazing. Thanks for your take. I rode an 08 and it was incredible

[@Cyclepedia]

10:35 Hot start lets in fresh air for easier starting when the engine is hot, not a decompression 🙂

[@Keeferinctesting]

Yep, my mouth went comp release but meant to say hot start. Forgot to edit it. My fault.

[@Cyclepedia]

@@Keeferinctesting Figured you knew lol, appreciate what you do for the sport!

[@craigwill4324]

It would be awesome if you did a lap time comparison with a new honda

[@georgecustanzza56]

I bought one new back then. Was one of the best bikes I ever owned!

[@scottaddicott8723]

I still have a 2004 CRF450R. I still enjoy the way it feels and handles. Probably will always have it. I think someone named Jeremy McGrath has one or two in his garage yet to!

[@boyanbunz2269]

i absolutely love my 2007 crf450r i got a insane deal on it too, i traded a kayo 250f for it. the guy before us who had it took insane care of it.

[@fartpooify]

Had an 07, such a stable smooth bike.

[@jordancusano3192]

Last year I found a *MINT* 2008, one-owner CRF450R and picked it up for $2500. Maybe 20 hours on it, barely had boot rub. Couldn't believe my eyes. I rode it 5-6 track days and had a blast. Really good bike but the '08 suspension could use some work. I don't know exactly why I decided to sell it, but I did. Made a huge profit on it, but I never forgot the feel that bike provided.... Watching this video is making me regret my decision a little.

[@laurenmau6895]

luv ya work keefer. had one myself, great bike

[@glenndaunch4095]

I HAVE this 2007, I STILL RIDE THIS BIKE , SHE IS AMAZING !!!!

[@MrGbustamante]

I suck at riding, not long ago I bought the 2007. It was ok. Went to a 2013 and it suited me so much better. Actually I had the 2008 and I remember it hit really hard when it got in the midrange, way more so than the 2013 which was re-mappable to be super smooth and linear.

[@AlexStauber-wr6qq]

The 06-08 Honda was a great bike. Hard to beat

[@ochoabtor9597]

Laptimes, need laptines... 😂

[@nobullracing2670]

A seriously impressive generation of motorcycles. Still have an 07 and 08 450x for bombing through the desert. 🥲

[@JoshJarrell-t9t]

Had an 08’ , so same bike. Best bike I ever had! Most people agree that it took Honda until 2017 to get the 450 somewhat close to the 08’. And from experience, the closest new bike to the 08’ Honda is the 21’ + KX. My sons KX 250 f with pro circuit motor feels about the same with less torque of course

[@jeffrainbolt81]

This is great stuff still have my 07 in the garage. 24 motos on it and now it's a trail bike. Keefer, please post some footage of you ripping it around Glen Helen.

[@dylanp9211]

Love those years of honda. I had a 2006 crf250r and absolutely loved it had a 2002 crf450r as well great bike. Currently just have my dyna Harley and am absolutely itching to get back on the dirt. In the market now. I wouldnt mind to have a 2005-2008 crf450r or even crf250r. But will go Yamaha or suzuki as well. So im looking for any 450f from 2006-2016 basically.

[@harv04wt]

Great content. Always wondered what my memory of that era 450 would be like compared to what we ride now. Had a 2007 KX450, on a 2024 Yz450 now. Those 07 Hondas were great. Think that lever is the hotstart, not the compression release though. My 01 YZ250F had the compression release then all the manufacturers went to auto compression release and moved the hotstart to the lever.

[@Keeferinctesting]

You were right! I checked on this after I was done today. My fault..

[@harv04wt]

​@Keeferinctesting 20 years ago, it's a blur at this point. Just glad all of us get to nerd out on great content like this. Much appreciated.

[@matthiasschulze393]

long live the FCR carb years, the RC and JS battles as well

[@jasonjoel800]

I have a 06 crf450r, mostly stock, recently rebuilt motor and suspension. I'll say it's a good bike, reliable, and easy to ride... But my 21 KTM 350 xcf factory is next level fun

[@rsmtuneremaps3505]

Please, same comparison for Suzuki RMZ 450 years 09-12 … want to see your opinion on these bikes comparing to 2025 ERA of the bikes. Btw great content 👍🏼 keep going with these older bikes testing

[@SpeedDemonExpress]

These older Hondas need the shock piston bushing replaced with a sdi teflon coated bushing, like the forks use. Your knees will thank you. I know for sure that from at least 2005 to 2013 need it. It's a must have.

[@damonhuffman20]

Awesome throwback 👏🏻 I think the new bikes are too narrow and the seats are flat and horrible. 😬 cool review

[@bigironjakesd619]

Bro so glad you made this video. Its the truth..

[@Keeferinctesting]

Fun test to do! Need to do more of these. Check the Racer X one out this weekend as there is more details

[@Markjacobs4477]

The 2013 kx450 is still the fastest stock 450 I have ever ridden by FAR

[@HersheysGarage]

I bought my 2006 new and never sold it. My first and last new Honda mx bike. I would read the reviews every year and every bike from 2009 on sounded like Honda was lost chasing their tails. Up until this point I owned Honda's my whole life. I went on to buy other brands after this bike and ever felt a reason to come back to Honda.

[@mvcvm6398]

My 08 felt great to ride too

[@narfer]

Sitting here in the garage. Looking at my 2007 CRF450!

[@halvorsonmx]

That bike could still win a national.

[@tflannel2393]

Dig Keefer, easy to relate to on how he explains things. Have agreed with his reviews on bikes he's rode, after getting a chance to ride that model. There goes the price of 07 & 08 crf450s 😂

[@danparsons8831]

I still have the 08 and my son now an 09 crf250r carby bikes and yes we love them for some aussie bush thrashing but they can wear you out trying to start them sometimes! Got a 2020 rmz250 last week and this thing seems very frisky which will be interesting but crf has always been my benchmark as its the most fun

[@jetyz125]

Not a compression release. It's the hot start lever.

[@mx_51_]

Honda needs to give us the 2008 crf450 again, even if they kept the current engine with fi and a button I’m sure it would be better than everything they have tried since 2008