I mean if you have a Honda CRF450R, it’s almost illegal NOT to run a Yoshimura. No, but seriously, Yoshimura does make one of the best looking Honda mufflers in existence. Yoshimura quality is also second to none and when you bolt on a Yoshimura, you know it’s not going to be a nightmare. We got a Yoshimura RS-12 full titanium system for our 2026 Honda CRF450R Garage Build but since we had no other motor work done to our build this was a perfect chance to see what the RS-12 does the the CRF450R’s engine character.
Some of the features of the new RS-12 include:
Hydroformed Muffler
This is the first of a new generation RS-12 profile exhaust system featuring weight reducing hydroformed technology. This technology allows to maximize available space for a tailored fit while minimizing material usage. Hydroforming removes many of the limitations of conventional metal forming methods allowing for a stronger and lighter muffler. This new sleeve also incorporates a deep draw one-piece resonator further improving durability.
Hydroformed Header Primary
Improved performance due to exact matching of the oval exhaust port, with a smooth internal transition from oval to round. Increased durability from a reduction in welded connections. Improved fit from the exact repeatability of hydroform process.
Header Resonator
Developed in cooperation with the Honda HRC Team, Yoshimura’s header resonator isn’t just there for looks, it allows us to maximize power across the spectrum, while enhancing rider connectivity.
Cast Manifold
Benefits include increased strength, durability, easier installation and removal.
The new RS-12 for the 2026 Honda CRF450R/RX also comes with an INS-32-K sound insert installed. This insert not only produces an ear pleasing exhaust note, it also makes the best power for the new Honda. CRF450R RS-12 is designed, developed and made in the USA with the help of Team Honda HRC race teams in the USA and Europe.
With all that being said, how did it perform against the stock muffler of the “R” model? The stock exhaust has more of a hit to it down low than the Yoshimura RS-12. When you’re rolling through second gear in corners with the stock muffler it can be a little on/off feeling and that can screw up your mid corner roll speed. The first thing I noticed when I rode out onto the track with the RS-12 system was that the “R” model Honda now had more rear wheel connectivity as well as a chassis that has a calmer feel in area 2-3 of corners. I couldn’t; believe the difference this muffler made in how the Honda corners. We all know the Honda corners very well but what I didn’t realize was missing was that smother low RPM delivery that the Yoshimura system gave the CRF450R. I thought the stock Honda CRF450R was pretty smooth but once I bolted the RS-12 on, this feeling went to a whole new level. Being able to roll into the corner and get on the throttle earlier was made easier with the RS-12. I also noticed that the mid range or third gear power out of a corner was also smoother (yet had more torque feel) and more manageable. Coming off of a YZ450F to this CRF450R with the Yoshimura system it made me realize how the Yamaha is just too damn fast and it needs more traits like the Honda w/ the Yoshimura RS-12 muffler. A linear delivery with enough low RPM/throttle response excitement to keep the bike feeling light while trying to hop braking bumps is exactly what this system does. I would say top end/over-rev was about as good as the stock muffler but the amount of traction and pulling power that I get out of this Yoshimura system makes that $1700.00 price tag sting a little less. Yes! 1700.00. I will say and stand by the quality of the Yosh system so having to repack this system at 10 hours like some other muffler manufacturers will not be needed.
I am not a huge stickler on sound but the RS-12 does have a much more pleasant sound to it than the stock “R” muffler. The RS-12 is quiet and delivers the power to the ground efficiently with that pleasant sound. The only knock I can really put on the RS-12 system is that the price tag is steep and the rear of the can is a little big looking to the eye, but once it’s on the bike, it’s not as noticeable.
If you’re looking to spread out your Honda power, gain rear wheel connectivity as well as allow your Honda to corner even better (if you can’t corner better after you install this muffler, it isn’t YOUR bike, it’s you) this Yoshimura RS-12 system really does make your CRF450R look better and perform better. Oh did I mention that you’ll lose around 1.8 pounds with the RS-12 over your stock system? Yep! You do! You can check out what Yoshimura offers over at: www.yoshimura-rd.com.
