Prior to replacing my aging oem crank a few years ago, I did a bit of research on the subject of Hotrods vs. oem vs. rebuilt oem. Initially, I just wanted to rebuild my oem unit. Even though Honda only sells complete crankshafts, which implies that they can't be rebuilt, they actually can be rebuilt, but it is much more difficult to do it right compared to a non-tinned crank. Based on my research, the general consensus, via other online forums, is this: If the tin cover is damaged in any way during the rebuilding process, it will only go a few hours before grenading. The same seems to be true for the Hotrods cranks as well. Not wanting to chance an incorrectly rebuilt crank, I decided on the Hotrods option. Many years later, the crank is still going strong and has been trouble-free.
Once again via other online forums, the general consensus is this: Honda used tinned cranks to reduce crankcase volume & turbulence, so the incoming air-charge flows smoother. Is it true? It sounds good to me though.