BEST MOTOCROSSER: Honda CRF450R

Balance has always been a fundamental tenet of Honda’s design philosophy. But the 2017 CRF450R takes it to a new level for the company’s moto­crossers. All-new for the first time in five years, this complete redesign gave the bike the slim feel and excellent ergonomics. Suspension (and a great new spring fork) is compliant and controlled on jump landings and rough chop for expert riders while being easy for the average person to dial in. The CRF is deceptively fast thanks to broad, tractable power, and the switchable ignition maps widen its adaptability. It works as a complete, well-rounded package with, yes, an incredible level of balance.