What Are the Torque Specs for a 2020 Honda CRF450RX?

Shop parts for a 2020 Honda CRF450RX Dirt Bike.

The 2020 Honda CRF450RX received the 2020 CRF450R chassis update—including the revised frame with updated flex characteristics—combined with the updated airbox and fuel injection system. For the RX, these chassis changes translated directly into improved cross-country performance in technical terrain where the revised frame flex behavior made the bike more predictable through root-covered sections and rocky terrain. Understanding the updated fastener specifications that came with the 2020 platform ensures these improvements are preserved through proper maintenance.

Engine and Drivetrain Fasteners

The 2020 CRF450RX updated airbox mounting system introduced intake tract fastener changes carried from the 2020 CRF450R. On the RX specifically, the larger fuel tank and enduro accessories mean that access to some intake fasteners requires removing more components than on the motocross CRF450R—but the torque values themselves remain consistent with the standard 2020 platform.

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 Chassis

The revised frame flex on the 2020 CRF450RX creates a different swingarm-to-frame interaction compared to the 2019 model. This makes swingarm pivot torque particularly important to verify after any rear suspension service on the 2020 RX—the pivot preload affects how the revised frame flex communicates with the swingarm during fast terrain changes.

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)

Drivetrain and Brake Torque

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)
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.