GNCC XC Racing Project Honda TRX450R

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Suspension

The stock suspension on 450R far exceeded what was available in the past on stock machines, but it still can’t compete with the custom built shocks by Elka suspension for XC racing. The shocks were built to my weight specifications, riding style, and adjusted for the Swingarm and A-arm measurement changes. The front triple rate piggy back reservoir shocks are compression only adjustable which is more than adequate adjustability for the majority of riders, but are also available with dual compression adjustment and rebound adjustability

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An Elka dual rate fully adjustable rear shock with front mounting reservoir for added cooling was also added along with an Elka Rear Linkage which provides a low ride height for handling and increases the wheel travel for a smoother ride.

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Traction

The hard pounding XC racing can quickly bend and destroy factory wheels, so ITP T-9 Pro Series Baja Wheels were added front and rear with their inner and outer reinforcing rings for increased strength. For added traction and controllability, ITP’s new Holeshot HD tires were added in the front and rear which provide incredible traction even in the muddiest conditions.

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For flat tire prevention, each wheel was mounted with Tireballs, which are a revolutionary new product for the ATV market that eliminates the worry of receiving a flat tire during a race. The specifically formed Tireballs are layered in each tire to eliminate the need to add air to the tires because each ball is already filled with the necessary amount of air to inflate the tire to its proper riding pressure.

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Also, Baldwin Billet Aluminum front hubs were added for increased durability and available extended race studs for quick wheels changes if required.

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For increased stopping power, DP Brake’s high grade stainless steel brake rotors and race proven sintered brake pads were installed front and rear along with Streamline Performance steel braided brakes lines. Golden Spectro Dot 4 High Performance Braking Fluid was added to withstand the tremendous heat generated during a racing event. Finally, a DID X-ring ATV chain was installed to handle the increased engine horsepower.

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Appearance

To further set our Project 450R apart from a stock 450R we had the majority of the factory parts either powdercoated or polished by Pappy’s Performance Coatings. White Laker Custom fenders with its heavy duty simulated carbon fiber front hood were installed to enhance the appearance of the machine

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For the finishing touch, Burgard Cycle machined a mirror polished aluminum clutch cover engraved with “EXRIDERS 450R.”

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Test Ride

When assembly was complete, it was finally time to see how the Project 450R stacked up against stock 450R. Again, with the help of GNCC Pro Racer, Andy Lagzdins(Duncan Racing/Dirt First) and GNCC Stock Class Racer, Harlen Foley, we put the machines to a head to head timed test.

Andy was the 1st rider to mount the 450R and bring it to life with one kick. It was amazing the difference in the ability to start the Project machine over the Stock 450R, which took several kicks to start most of the time.

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Andy wasted no time in opening it up, and the HD tires quickly uprooted the grass in the yard.

We quickly decided that the yard may not be the best place to get use to riding the Project 450R