Sherco 4.5i Enduro (2004-current)

Sherco aren’t exactly a household name in the UK. But for fans of enduro riding this Spanish firm is quietly creeping up the popularity ladder. The motor’s powerful, the brakes brilliant, the ergonomics spot on. The only question is over the makes reliability, but barring some rogue electrical problems the factory seems to have answered that query convincingly. You’ll probably buy a CRF450X or KTM 450 EXC all the same…

Engine

MCN rating
Owners' rating

The benchmark in class is Honda’s almighty enduro weapon the CRF450X. The SOHC Sherco is more user-friendly, lacking the ‘hit’ of the Honda. Later bikes ape the pre-’04 Husabergs with a switchable ignition setting to give the rider greater control over the power delivery according to the circumstances.

Ride and Handling

MCN rating
Owners' rating

The plush 46mm Paoili forks cope well with a range of conditions and only heavier riders (over 90kg) will find the need to move to stiffer spings. The Italian firm’s shock is also excellent and the adjustment actually makes a noticeable difference to your ride. The brakes are equally impressive – though they might be a bit too sharp for newer riders. It’s a great bike to ride hard.

Equipment

MCN rating
Owners' rating

Excel rims and Paoili forks and shock are about as big a brand name as you get on the Sherco.

Quality and Reliability

MCN rating
Owners' rating

Early Shercos weren’t exactly blessed with copper-bottomed reliability. But recent campaigns in the World Enduro Championship have helped the company hone their build and component quality. But given the fact that the dealer network in the UK is tiny most buyers will feel safer buying Japanese, Husqvarna or KTM.

Value

MCN rating
Owners' rating

Shercos are cheaper than the equivalent KTMs or Hondas but not enough to persuade many folk from swaying from the way of the orange Austrians. Secondhand values for all off-roaders is weak, but especially so for non-mainstream tackle like the Sherco.

Model History

None

Other Versions

4.5i SM: The 4.5 get the supermoto treatment: 17-inch Excel rims, stiffer, lower suspension, Brembo radial brake and 320mm wavy brake disc.

Specifications

Top speed	78 mph
1/4-mile acceleration	15.6 secs
Max power	48 bhp
Max torque	39 ft-lb
Weight	109 kg
Seat height	885 mm
Fuel capacity	8.5 litres
Average fuel consumption	35 mpg
Tank range	70 miles
Annual road tax
Insurance group	11 of 17

Engine size	449 cc
Engine specification	4v single, 6 gears
Frame	Tubular steel cradle
Front suspension adjustment	None
Rear suspension adjustment	Preload, compression, rebound
Front brakes	Single 270mm disc
Rear brake	240mm disc
Front tyre size	90/90 x 21
Rear tyre size	140/80 x 18