By Mallory Wainwright | March 2, 2023 

Dirt bikes have been evolving over the years with advancements in technology and design, and every year manufacturers release new models with improved features and better performance. In this blog post, we will discuss the differences between the 2022 and 2023 dirt bikes.

Engine and Performance

The engine is the most important part of any dirt bike, and manufacturers are constantly trying to improve the performance of their bikes. The 2022 models of dirt bikes have powerful engines that deliver excellent performance, but the 2023 models have taken things up a notch. Manufacturers have made significant improvements to the engines, resulting in increased horsepower, torque, and fuel efficiency. 

The 2023 Husqvarna 450 FC engineering techniques to assist with repositioning the rotational mass to offer improved anti-squat behaviour for improved handling. Retaining the advanced electronics and high-quality components throughout.

For example, Honda has made significant upgrades to its CRF450R model for 2023. The engine has been completely redesigned, featuring a new cylinder head, camshaft, and exhaust system. These changes have resulted in an increase in horsepower and torque, as well as improved fuel efficiency. They have also changed the battery  location;  outside the airbox, behind the cylinder and the air-filter element faces downward. Increasingly, mapping changes are more important each year. The CRF450R still has three maps, three levels of traction control and three levels of launch control, all of which can be selected via handlebar-mounted switches.

KTM has also made significant upgrades to its engines for the 2023 models. The KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition features a redesigned engine with improved power delivery and better throttle response. The engine is also more compact, which has resulted in a lighter overall weight for the bike.

Suspension

The suspension system on a dirt bike is crucial for providing a smooth and comfortable ride. The 2022 models of dirt bikes have good suspension systems, but the 2023 models have taken things to the next level. Manufacturers have made significant improvements to the suspension systems, resulting in better handling, increased stability, and better shock absorption.

For example, Yamaha has made significant upgrades to its suspension system for the 2023 YZ250F and YZ450F models. The bikes now feature a new KYB® spring fork and a KYB® rear shock that provides improved handling and stability. The suspension system also features new damping settings that provide better shock absorption, resulting in a smoother ride.

Kawasaki has also made significant upgrades to its suspension system for the 2023 models. The KX450 features a new Showa suspension system that has been specifically designed for the bike. The suspension system provides improved handling and stability, as well as better shock absorption.

Technology

Technology plays an important role in the development of dirt bikes, and manufacturers are constantly looking for ways to integrate the latest technology into their bikes. The 2022 models of dirt bikes feature some impressive technology, including electronic fuel injection, anti-lock brakes, and traction control. 

The 2023 Husqvarna 450 FC has the Quickshift function allowing it to be activated or deactivated by the map select switch. The function will only work when you are upshifting, making the ignition in a fraction of a second. Quickshifiting allows for upshifiting while the throttle is fully open without the use of the clutch. To prevent unintended shifts and false neutrals, the function is only active from second gear up. Lastly, they have created the launch control. With the engine at idle, launch control is engaged by pressing the traction control and Quickshift buttons simultaneously. Both symbol will start flashing to indication the launch control is active. This function limits the amount of power to the rear wheel, improving traction, and preventing loss of control under hard acceleration. Once a gear change is made, the launch control will deactivate automatically. The Quickshift function is deactivated while launch control mode is engaged. 

For example, Yamaha has integrated advanced GPS technology into its 2023 YZ250F and YZ450F models. The bikes come equipped with a GPS receiver that can provide real-time data on the rider's location, speed, and altitude. The GPS system can also track the rider's progress and provide helpful information on fuel consumption and maintenance.

The KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition features a new, more advanced traction control system. The system uses sensors to monitor the bike's speed and position and adjust the traction control accordingly. This results in better control and stability on the bike.

Honda CRF450R for 2023 features a new, more advanced electronic fuel injection system that provides better throttle response and improved fuel efficiency. 

Weight and Handling

Kawasaki has made significant upgrades to the weight distribution and handling of its KX450 for 2023. The bike features a new, more compact chassis. The bike also features a new, more lightweight swingarm that reduces the overall weight of the bike.

KTM has also made significant upgrades to the weight distribution and handling of its all new 2023 models. The KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition also features a new, more compact engine and chassis that has been specifically designed to provide better handling and stability. This bike also comes with a lightweight exhaust system that reduces the overall weight of the bike.

Price

Price is always an important consideration for anyone who is looking to purchase a dirt bike. The 2023 models of dirt bikes generally come with a higher price tag than the 2022 models, but the additional features and improvements may be worth the investment.

The 2023 Honda CRF450R has a starting price of around £7,856.99, while the 2022 model has a starting price of around £7,692.99. The 2023 KTM 450 SX-F Factory Edition has a starting price of around £9,984.99, while the 2022 model has a starting price of around £9,165.99. The 2023 Kawasaki KX450 has stayed at the same price of £7,856.99 as it was in 2022.

In conclusion, the 2023 models of dirt bikes have significant improvements over the 2022 models. Manufacturers have made upgrades to the engine, suspension, design, technology, weight distribution, and handling, resulting in better performance and overall riding experience. However, the 2023 models generally come with a higher price tag than the 2022 models. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and budget when deciding which model to purchase. 

Which make or model would you like to see a more in-depth review on? Let us know in the comments!