In only a few weeks the adrenaline-filled chaos of Dakar will return to the breathtaking yet unforgiving landscapes of Saudi Arabia, with competitors from around the globe bracing themselves for the ultimate test of endurance, skill, and sheer willpower.

Facing an edition that will stretch almost 8,000 km with 12 punishing stages, Honda is poised to defend Ricky Brabec’s second-historic win in 2024 and shoot for a 1-2-3 podium streak. To do so, Big Red has announced an unchanged team, emphasizing continuity as a winning formula.

Riders Ready For Action

Ricky Brabec, the reigning 2024 Dakar champion, is working tirelessly to recover from an injury sustained at the Rallye du Maroc. His goal? To defend his title in peak condition at the world’s toughest race.

Tosha Schareina wrapped up a spectacular debut season with Monster Energy Honda HRC, securing a win in Portugal and podiums at Argentina’s Ruta 40 and the Rallye du Maroc.

Adrien Van Beveren, fresh off an impressive third-place finish at the Dakar, is heading into the new season with clarity and renewed motivation.

Skyler Howes, after a 2024 season marred by injuries, enters Dakar 2025 in top shape, eager to showcase his exceptional potential.

Pablo Quintanilla, with unparalleled experience, approaches this season with the same passion and dedication that have defined his rally-raid career.

CRF 450 Rally: A Machine in Constant Evolution

A cornerstone of the team’s success, the CRF 450 Rally was unveiled at the close of the previous season. Over 2024, it has seen continuous upgrades, reflecting Honda’s unwavering commitment to innovation and excellence. With these improvements, Honda says the CRF 450 Rally is ready to deliver top-tier performance across the most technical tracks.

According to provided specs, this latest CRF’s 449.3cc liquid-cooled DOHC single is pumping out “over 45 kW” (60.35 hp) utilizing a bore and stroke of 97.0 X 60.8 mm and the transfer of power is managed via six-speeds. 

Showa suspension, an inverted fork and mono shock rear, allow for 12.2 in (310 mm) and 12 in (305 mm) of travel respectively. The Rally’s frame is an aluminum twin tube-type design assisted by a carbon fiber subframe, while stopping power is provided by a 300 mm front and 240 mm rear disc. Total fuel capacity of the front and rear tanks is 35L (9.25 gallons). 

Confirmed 2025 Calendar

The W2RC 2025 calendar, announced last month, takes the championship across some of the world’s most legendary rally-raid terrains. The five stages include:

• Dakar
• Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge
• South African Safari Rally
• BP Ultimate Rally Raid Portugal
• Rally du Maroc