Top 5 best 450cc motocross bikes in 2026

Table of contents
Summary
The best 450cc motocross bikes in our ranking are the KTM 450 SX-F, the Gasgas MC 450F, the Kawasaki KX450SR, the Yamaha YZ450FX and the Honda CRF450R.
- 2026 Honda CRF450R: starting at $11,988, the most affordable 450cc motocross in the selection.
- 2027 Gasgas MC 450F: $13,534, with Keihin engine management and Gasgas+ connectivity.
- 2027 Yamaha YZ450FX: $13,649, known for its reliability and designed for cross-country.
- 2027 KTM 450 SX-F: $14,484, with Quickshifter, traction control and engine maps.
- 2026 Kawasaki KX450SR: $16,199, the most expensive and one of the best equipped in the comparison.
The Honda CRF450R offers the best starting price, while the Kawasaki KX450SR provides the most complete equipment. These very powerful bikes are aimed mainly at intermediate or experienced riders.
How to choose a 450cc motocross?
To choose the best 450cc motocross for you, it is important to evaluate your budget and your expected level of use.
Some models are better suited to experienced riders, while others come with a more reasonable and accessible starting price.
If you are looking for a bike that suits a beginner, it may be worth considering one of the best 125cc motocross or 250cc.
An unmatched inventory in Quebec is waiting for you at Motos Illimitées. The immediate availability of our models lets you leave without delay with the vehicle you want.
Our pick of the best 450cc motocross
KTM 450 SX-F
Engineered with easy maintenance in mind, the KTM 450 SX-F is one of the best 450 four-stroke motocross bikes.
It is equipped with a Quickshifter that lets you shift gears quickly without having to use the clutch.
In addition to the selection of engine maps available on other SX models, the 450 SX offers traction control to further reinforce grip.

Discover one of the best 450 motocross bikes for the track:
| Specifications | 2027 KTM 450 SX-F |
|---|---|
| Starting price | $14,484 |
| Engine | 4-stroke 449.9cc engine |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Dry weight | 227 lb. |
| Wheelbase | 1,475 mm |
| Seat height | 958 mm |
| Ground clearance | 343 mm |

Gasgas MC 450F
Offering outstanding value, the Gasgas MC 450F makes riding easier with a complete suite of on-board technology.
The Keihin engine management system is one of the best in the category and it is ready to sync instantly with a map selector when one is present on the bike.
An off-road connectivity system is available to put engine settings directly in the rider's hands through the Gasgas+ app.
Here is one of the lightest 450cc motocross bikes:
| Specifications | 2027 Gasgas MC 450F |
|---|---|
| Starting price | $13,534 |
| Engine | 4-stroke 449.9cc engine |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Dry weight | 228 lb. |
| Wheelbase | 1,493 mm |
| Seat height | 956 mm |
| Ground clearance | 343 mm |
Kawasaki KX450
As one of the best motocross bikes for experienced riders, the Kawasaki KX450SR is among the best equipped in its class.
The Rideology app lets you connect your Kawasaki and adjust the engine map remotely.
It also uses numerous proven Kawasaki technologies such as Kawasaki traction control and a launch control mode.

In short, the Kawasaki KX450 is a modern model and, without a doubt, one of the most powerful 450cc motocross bikes. Here are the details:
| Specifications | 2026 Kawasaki KX450SR |
|---|---|
| Starting price | $16,199 |
| Engine | 4-stroke 449cc engine |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Dry weight | 238 lb. |
| Wheelbase | 1,485 mm |
| Seat height | 955 mm |
| Ground clearance | 340 mm |

Yamaha YZ450FX
Known for its durability, the Yamaha YZ450FX is, without a doubt, one of the most reliable 450 motocross bikes, just like the YZ250 which remains one of the best 250cc motocross bikes on the market.
Yamaha's Power Tuner app offers precise control that includes air/fuel mix adjustment and engine performance selection to match track conditions.
The KYBMD shock absorber softens impact feedback and gives you a confident riding feel.
Discover one of the easiest 450 motocross bikes to ride:
| Specifications | 2027 Yamaha YZ450FX |
|---|---|
| Starting price | $13,649 |
| Engine | 4-stroke 450cc engine |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Curb weight | 243 lb. |
| Wheelbase | 1,475 mm |
| Seat height | 825 mm |
| Ground clearance | 345 mm |
Honda CRF450R
The CRF450R is a more modest motocross and one of the best 450 bikes for intermediate riders.
An aluminum frame and Showa fork optimize agility and the riding experience.
It is also designed for easy filter cleaning and simplified maintenance, which is ideal for those who do not necessarily have the expertise required for more complex service.

Here is the CRF450R, one of the best 2026 motocross bikes:
| Specifications | 2026 HONDA CRF450R |
|---|---|
| Starting price | $11,988 |
| Engine | 4-stroke 449cc engine |
| Gearbox | 5-speed |
| Curb weight | 249 lb. |
| Wheelbase | 1,482 mm |
| Seat height | 961 mm |
| Ground clearance | 333 mm |
Summary table of the best 450cc motocross
To sum up, here are the prices of the best 450cc motocross bikes:
| 450cc motocross | Selling price* | Engine and transmission | Notable equipment |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2027 KTM 450 SX-F | $14,484 | 4-stroke, 5-speed | Quickshifter function Traction control |
| 2027 Gasgas MC 450F | $13,534 | 4-stroke, 5-speed | Off-road connectivity Keihin engine management |
| 2026 Kawasaki KX450SR | $16,199 (PSDF, fees excluded) | 4-stroke, 5-speed | Rideology app with engine mapping Kawasaki traction control |
| 2027 Yamaha YZ450FX | $13,649 | 4-stroke, 5-speed | Power Tuner app with air/fuel adjustment KYBMD shock absorber |
| 2026 Honda CRF450R | $11,988 | 4-stroke, 5-speed | Aluminum frame Showa fork |
*Manufacturer's suggested retail price. Selling prices are taken from the manufacturers' websites (July 2026).
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FAQ
What is the best 450cc motocross?
The best 450cc motocross bikes are the KTM 450 SX-F, the Gasgas MC 450F, the Kawasaki KX450SR, the Yamaha YZ450FX and the Honda CRF450R.
Is a 450cc motocross suitable for starting out?
For a beginner, it is generally recommended to choose a 125cc motocross or a 250cc four-stroke motocross.
What is the difference between a 450 two-stroke and a 450 four-stroke?
In 2026, there are no longer really any 450cc two-stroke models available.
Which 450 cc motocross is the most reliable?
The Yamaha YZ450FX is one of the most reliable 450cc models.
How much does a new 450 cc motocross cost?
For a new 450cc motocross, plan for a minimum of about $12,000.
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