[kpracing]

Does anyone know if there is any difference in the frame from 02 to 03 CRF450?
Will the 03 handle better, I heard that the 02 will push the front more than 03.

 

[blueblack]

I think both the 02 and 03 share the same frame. Just that the 03 has the up-dated airbox. Regarding the issue of the 02 handling, alot of the guys run a 22mm aftermarket thriple clamp or a stormlink dog bone. These up-dates help make the 02 handles better.

 

[PowerFiend]

The 03 has a different linkage that raises the rear end, to help steering in MX. The Pro's are actually putting the 02 linkage on the newer CRF's to lower the rear without putting the suspension further into the progressive curve of the linkage. They do this instead of shortening the shock. Your stock 02 with your forks raised in the clamps and correct springs and sag, and you should be set except for dialing the comp/reb valving. :thumbup:

P.S. I believe that the front half of the frame has the same geometry, they just changed the linkage and subframe for 03.

 

[sigar]

Powerfiend is right on.

 

[kpracing]

When I raised the forks in the clamps I got a lot of head shake (real bad)
On fast parts of the track.
When lowered all the way flush with the cap I don’t have that!
I have my shock done with lots of rebound (I think 5 times more shims than stock)
And the front feels good to.
This last race I crashed 2 times losing the front, it just doesn’t seem that there is weight on the front wheel.
I I’m trying new tires (Bridgestone) I used to use the Bridgestone on my road race bike and liked them better than the Dunlop.
I have been running Michelin until now on my sm and did not have the front end push with them.
But can get a good deal on the bridgestone ( it is about saving where you can right)
Any idea??