What Are the Torque Specs for a 2018 Honda CRF450RX?

Shop parts for a 2018 Honda CRF450RX Dirt Bike.

The 2018 Honda CRF450RX carried forward the cross-country enduro platform introduced in 2017 with refined suspension calibration and updated fueling maps. The 449cc unicam engine, 18-inch rear wheel, enduro fuel tank, and competition off-road chassis remained consistent with the 2017 model, making the 2018 CRF450RX torque specifications closely aligned with the original year while incorporating the suspension hardware updates introduced on the 2018 CRF450R platform.

Drivetrain Torque Specs

The 18-inch rear wheel on the 2018 CRF450RX uses a rear axle nut and sprocket carrier setup that is shared with the enduro-spec platform. Chain tension management on the 2018 RX is slightly more demanding than on the motocross version because the enduro gearing and 18-inch wheel combination puts different chain loading patterns on the adjuster system. Inspect chain adjuster lock nuts after every full enduro race day.

Drivetrain ComponentTorque Spec
Front axle nut59–69 Nm (44–51 ft-lb)
Rear axle nut88–108 Nm (65–80 ft-lb)
Rear sprocket nuts35–45 Nm (26–33 ft-lb)
Chain adjuster lock nuts22–26 Nm (16–19 ft-lb)

Engine Fasteners

The 2018 CRF450RX engine received the same updated fuel mapping as the 2018 CRF450R. On the RX specifically, the larger fuel tank and enduro fuel system add mass and complexity to the area above the engine. When servicing the top end, the fuel tank and subframe must be moved to access the valve cover—always retorque cam cover bolts fully after reassembly rather than trusting that “snug” is sufficient.

Engine ComponentTorque Spec
Spark plug18–22 Nm (13–16 ft-lb)
Oil drain plug29–35 Nm (21–26 ft-lb)
Cylinder head bolts (8mm)40–48 Nm (30–35 ft-lb)
Cylinder head bolts (6mm)12–15 Nm (9–11 ft-lb)
Cam sprocket bolt35–45 Nm (26–33 ft-lb)
Flywheel bolt85–100 Nm (63–74 ft-lb)
Clutch hub nut85–100 Nm (63–74 ft-lb)

Suspension and Brake Torque

Suspension & Chassis ComponentTorque Spec
Upper fork clamp bolts20–25 Nm (15–18 ft-lb)
Lower fork clamp bolts20–25 Nm (15–18 ft-lb)
Handlebar clamp bolts20–25 Nm (15–18 ft-lb)
Swingarm pivot nut88–108 Nm (65–80 ft-lb)
Rear shock upper mount40–50 Nm (30–37 ft-lb)
Rear shock linkage bolts40–50 Nm (30–37 ft-lb)
Brake ComponentTorque Spec
Front caliper mounting bolts28–34 Nm (21–25 ft-lb)
Rear caliper mounting bolts22–26 Nm (16–19 ft-lb)
Front brake disc bolts20–24 Nm (15–17 ft-lb)
Rear brake disc bolts20–24 Nm (15–17 ft-lb)

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Disclaimer: This guide is provided for general informational purposes only and is not intended to replace your motorcycle's official owner's manual. Always refer to your manufacturer's documentation for model-specific instructions, torque specifications, safety procedures, and maintenance requirements. If you are unsure or inexperienced, consider seeking assistance from a qualified mechanic or technician.