KTM has one, Husqvarna has one, GasGas has one. While it doesn’t boast the same moniker (Pierer probably holds the rights), Honda can now say it has a rally replica motorcycle too. Called the Honda CRF450RX Rally, the bike is based on the factory CRF450RX as well as the CRF450 Rally, and will debut at the Dakar Rally with Jacob Argubright.

Like the stock model, the CRF450RX Rally uses a 450cc liquid-cooled single-cylinder four-stroke engine with a single overhead camshaft and an electric starter. On the other hand, it has a six-speed transmission like the CRF450 rather than the five-speed of the CRF450RX and has fuel tanks at the front and rear.

Compared to the CRF450 used by the Monster Energy Honda Rally Team, the new model carries more fuel at 36 combined liters (22 liters among the two tanks at the front, 14 L at the back) to the other’s 35. The CRF450 also has a dual overhead camshaft in its engine instead.

The CRF450RX Rally is made from an aluminum twin tube frame like the CRF450. Both models also have a 300-millimeter front brake disc while the rear is 240 mm.

A limited number—roughly 50—of the bike will be produced by Honda.

“This year Honda are taking more responsibility, so I’ll be supported by RS Moto,” said Argubright, who is entering his third career Dakar. “There’s been more development with the bike and I’m excited about it. Last year I had no expectations, it was kind of a test, but I still really enjoyed it. I’m happy to ride the Honda again and it should be even better.”

RS Moto is an Italian-based Honda motorcycele dealer that will prepare Argubright’s bike. At the 2024 race, his Honda was pitted out of DUUST Rally Team.

Featured image credit: Honda Racing Corporation