Top 5 best 450cc motocross bikes in 2026

Published on: Aug 15, 2026
Top 5 best 450cc motocross bikes in 2026 alt

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.

Orange KTM 450 SX-F jumping over a bump on a motocross track.

Discover one of the best 450 motocross bikes for the track:

Specifications2027 KTM 450 SX-F
Starting price$14,484
Engine4-stroke 449.9cc engine
Gearbox5-speed
Dry weight227 lb.
Wheelbase1,475 mm
Seat height958 mm
Ground clearance343 mm
Red Gasgas MC 450F mid-jump on a motocross track.

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:

Specifications2027 Gasgas MC 450F
Starting price$13,534
Engine4-stroke 449.9cc engine
Gearbox5-speed
Dry weight228 lb.
Wheelbase1,493 mm
Seat height956 mm
Ground clearance343 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.

Green Kawasaki KX450SR jumping on a wooded motocross trail.

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:

Specifications2026 Kawasaki KX450SR
Starting price$16,199
Engine4-stroke 449cc engine
Gearbox5-speed
Dry weight238 lb.
Wheelbase1,485 mm
Seat height955 mm
Ground clearance340 mm
Blue Yamaha YZ450FX jumping on a wooded motocross trail.

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:

Specifications2027 Yamaha YZ450FX
Starting price$13,649
Engine4-stroke 450cc engine
Gearbox5-speed
Curb weight243 lb.
Wheelbase1,475 mm
Seat height825 mm
Ground clearance345 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.

Red Honda CRF450R riding on a muddy trail.

Here is the CRF450R, one of the best 2026 motocross bikes:

Specifications2026 HONDA CRF450R
Starting price$11,988
Engine4-stroke 449cc engine
Gearbox5-speed
Curb weight249 lb.
Wheelbase1,482 mm
Seat height961 mm
Ground clearance333 mm

Summary table of the best 450cc motocross

To sum up, here are the prices of the best 450cc motocross bikes:

450cc motocrossSelling price*Engine and transmissionNotable equipment
2027 KTM 450 SX-F$14,4844-stroke, 5-speedQuickshifter function
Traction control
2027 Gasgas MC 450F$13,5344-stroke, 5-speedOff-road connectivity
Keihin engine management
2026 Kawasaki KX450SR$16,199 (PSDF, fees excluded)4-stroke, 5-speedRideology app with engine mapping
Kawasaki traction control
2027 Yamaha YZ450FX$13,6494-stroke, 5-speedPower Tuner app with air/fuel adjustment
KYBMD shock absorber
2026 Honda CRF450R$11,9884-stroke, 5-speedAluminum 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.

SOURCES