Review of the Yamaha YZ 450 F motorcycle

Yamaha YZ450F (2003-2005)

Yamaha YZ450F (2006)

Yamaha YZ450F (2007-2009)

Yamaha YZ450F (2010-2013)

Yamaha YZ450F (2014-2017)

Yamaha YZ450F (2018-2021)

Yamaha YZ450F (2022+)

Yamaha YZ450F Monster Energy Yamaha Racing Edition (2022)

Model of motocross motorcycle Yamaha YZ450F

appeared in 2003, replacing the Yamaha YZ426F. The new model received an updated engine with increased displacement, as well as a new design. However, at that time the YZ450F still had the same steel frame and 4-speed gearbox. Numerous critics noted the excessive engine power, due to which the motorcycle could not show record results in motocross disciplines.

The situation began to change in 2005, when the Yamaha YZ450F received a new KYB front fork, and in 2006 it was completely changed. Firstly, the model received an aluminum frame. Secondly, the engine has been seriously revised and retuned, which is why the power curve has become smoother, removing the same explosive, uncontrollable character inherent in the previous generation. Thirdly, the 4-speed gearbox was replaced by a more familiar 5-speed gearbox. Fourthly, the motorcycle began to be equipped with a new KYB SSS (Speed-Sensitive System) fork. Fifth, overall optimization and an aluminum frame have reduced weight by nearly 10 pounds.

In 2010, Yamaha introduces a new generation of motocross Yamaha YZ450F. In addition to cosmetic differences, the model receives a new engine with an injection power system and a 4-valve cylinder head (instead of a 5-valve). At the same time, the engine became tilted back, and the tank was located under the seat. All these changes led to optimization of weight distribution, chassis geometry and ergonomics, which had a positive effect on the handling of the motorcycle.

For 2014, the Yamaha YZ450F is again undergoing changes. The appearance of the motorcycle changes, the exhaust system becomes shorter. The capacity of the fuel tank is increased (from 6 to 7.5 liters), and the geometry of the chassis is further optimized.

In 2022, Yamaha introduces the new generation of the YZ450F. The model receives an electric starter (+ battery) and completely abandons kick start. The appearance, ergonomics and overall dimensions change slightly. The engine increases the compression ratio from 12.5 to 12.8. The model is equipped with a new rear shock absorber. Fuel tank capacity is reduced from 7.5 to 6.2 liters.

At the end of 2022, Yamaha introduced the new generation YZ450F. The updated version received new graphics, a lightweight rear hub, sprocket and chain, optimized suspension settings and engine updates (the compression ratio increased from 12.8 → 13.0).

A hard enduro model, the Yamaha WR450F, was also built on the basis of the motocross Yamaha YZ450F. In 2016, based on the common YZ450F base, a hard enduro version was introduced - the Yamaha YZ450FX.

The main competitors of the Yamaha YZ450F in the class:

Honda CRF450R
Kawasaki KX450F
Suzuki RM-Z450

Brief history of the model

2003 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FR, 5TA1, 5TA2, 5TA3, 5TA4.

2004 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FS, 5XD1, 5XD2, 5XD3, 5XD4.

2005 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FT, 5XD5, 5XD6, 5XD7, 5XD8.

2006 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FV, 2S21, 2S22, 2S23, 2S24, 2S25.

2007 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FW, 2S27, 2S28, 2S29, 2S2A.

2008 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FX, 2S2B, 2S2C, 2S2D, 2S2E.

2009 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FY, 34P1, 34P2, 34P3, 34P4.

2010 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FZ, 33D1, 33D2, 33D3.

2011 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FA, 33D5, 33D6, 33D7.

2012 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FB, 33D9, 33DA, 33DB.

2013 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FD, 33DD, 33DE, 33DF.

2014 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FE, 1SL1, 1SL2, 1SL3.

2015 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FF, 1SL5, 1SL6, 1SL7.

2016 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FG, B111, B112, B115, B116.

2017 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FH, B118, B119, B11A.

2018 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FJ, BR91, BR92, BR93.

2019 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All markets).
Factory designation
: YZ450FK.

2020 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All Markets).

2021 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All Markets).

2022 - Model
: Yamaha YZ450F (All Markets).

Bike features

Here are the main features of the bike:

comfortable fit compared to many other cars;
driving comfort;
stylish but not too flashy design.

The motorcycle definitely lacks stars from the sky, but its significant engine capacity turns it into a kind of heavyweight among cross-country models. For this reason, it may not be as good at jumping as its lighter counterparts, but its maneuverability in some places will be much higher.

Specifications

Yamaha YZ450F Specifications:

Model	Yamaha YZ450F
Motorcycle type	cross
Year of issue	2003+
Frame	Steel half-duplex – YZ450F (2003-2005) Aluminum half-duplex – YZ450F (2006+)
engine's type	1-cylinder, 4-stroke
Working volume	449 cm³
Bore/Stroke	95.0 x 63.4 mm – YZ450F (2003-2009) 97.0 x 60.8 mm – YZ450F (2010+)
Compression ratio	12.5 – YZ450F (2003-2005, 2010-2017) 12.3 – YZ450F (2006-2009) 12.8 – YZ450F (2018-2021) 13.0 – YZ450F (2022+)
Cooling	liquid
Number of valves per cylinder	DOHC, 5 valves – YZ450F (2003-2009) DOHC, 4 valves – YZ450F (2010+)
Fuel supply system	Carburetor, 1x Keihin FCR-MX39 – YZ450F (2003-2009) Injector, 1x 44 mm – YZ450F (2010+)
Ignition type	CDI – YZ450F (2003-2009) TCI – YZ450F (2010+)
Maximum power	60.0 hp (44.1 kW) at 9000 rpm – YZ450F (2003-2009)
Maximum torque	52.9 Nm (5.4 kg-m) at 6500 rpm - YZ450F (2003-2009)
Clutch	Multi-disc in oil bath, cable drive
Transmission	4-speed – YZ450F (2003-2005) 5-speed – YZ450F (2006+)
type of drive	chain
Front tire size	80/100-21 51M
Rear tire size	110/90-19 62M, 120/80-19 63M
Front brakes	1 disc, 250 mm, 2-piston caliper – YZ450F (2003-2015) 1 disc, 270 mm, 2-piston caliper – YZ450F (2016+)
Rear brakes	1 disc, 245 mm, 1-piston caliper 1 disc, 240 mm, 1-piston caliper – YZ450F (2018+)
Front suspension	48mm inverted fork (fully adjustable), 300mm travel – YZ450F (2003-2009) 48mm inverted fork (fully adjustable), 310mm travel – YZ450F (2010+)
Rear suspension	Pendulum with monoshock absorber (fully adjustable), travel - 315 mm - YZ450F (2003-2005, 2010-2017) Pendulum with monoshock absorber (fully adjustable), travel - 310 mm - YZ450F (2006-2009) Swingarm with monoshock (fully adjustable), travel - 317 mm - YZ450F (2018+)
Motorcycle length	2171 mm – YZ450F (2003-2005) 2192 mm – YZ450F (2006-2013) 2175 mm – YZ450F (2014-2017) 2185 mm – YZ450F (2018+)
Motorcycle width	827 mm – YZ450F (2003-2005) 815 mm – YZ450F (2006-2009) 825 mm – YZ450F (2010+)
Motorcycle height	1303 mm – YZ450F (2003-2005) 1298 mm – YZ450F (2006-2009) 1311 mm – YZ450F (2010-2013) Read also: Moped Yamasaki Leader-2 Engine. 50 cu. 4 hp Weight 101 kg. (Black) 1280 mm – YZ450F (2014-2017) 1285 mm – YZ450F (2018+)
Wheelbase	1485 mm – YZ450F (2003-2005, 2018+) 1495 mm – YZ450F (2006-2009) 1492 mm – YZ450F (2010-2013) 1480 mm – YZ450F (2014-2017)
Seat height	995 mm – YZ450F (2003-2005) 986 mm – YZ450F (2006-2009) 999 mm – YZ450F (2010-2013) 975 mm – YZ450F (2014-2017) 980 mm – YZ450F (2018-2021) 965 mm – YZ450F (2022+)
Minimum ground clearance (clearance)	371 mm – YZ450F (2003-2009) 383 mm – YZ450F (2010-2013) 335 mm – YZ450F (2014-2017) 330 mm – YZ450F (2018+)
Acceleration 0-100 km/h (0-60 mph)
Maximum speed
Gas tank capacity	7.0 L – YZ450F (2003-2009) 6.0 L – YZ450F (2010-2013) 7.5 L – YZ450F (2014-2017) 6.2 L – YZ450F (2018+)
Motorcycle weight (dry)	99.8 kg – YZ450F (2006-2009)
Motorcycle weight (curb)	113.0 kg – YZ450F (2003-2005) 111.0 kg – YZ450F (2010+)

Dimensions and weight

When dry, the motorcycle weighs 106 kg - not the worst, but not the best result among its competitors, but rather typical for most similar models.

Length - 2190 mm ;
Width - 834 mm ;
Height - 1310 (total), 1000 (saddle) mm;
Base - 1490 mm ;
Ground clearance - 385 mm ;
Weight - 110 kg .

Reviews

Reviews about Yamaha YZ450F:

I took it by chance, in the winter, they gave it away inexpensively, 2005, 30 engine hours. I started by installing supermoto wheels and that’s all I really did... I drive a P1 myself, a crossbike according to documents is sports equipment, but I couldn’t resist the temptation to ride it around the city...

Here are the impressions: rushing like a diesel locomotive, huge suspension travel, stairs, curbs, pits - a field for entertainment. Speed bumps - what are they? The traction is dray, it easily shifts into reverse in any gear from the gas! Low consumption, starts in any weather. I don’t want to get off at all, I want to ride from morning to morning! Now about the bad: changing the oil/filter every 10 engine hours, lack of headlights, replacing the piston every 100 hours. In general, the device is excellent, worth all the money, but: there is not enough fifth gear (the WR has it, but the VER doesn’t drive like that!)

Yamaha YZ450F 2022 On the track

Despite the big changes the bike has received, the 2022 YZ450F doesn't feel much different on the track than the 2019 bike. With such a huge list of new parts and changes, upgrades and modifications, we expected to be testing a bike that handled completely differently, but that wasn't the case.

Engine

This is the most powerful powerplant that has been installed on the Yamaha YZ450F. But last year's engine was also extremely powerful. The main difference between these engines is the power delivery. Previously, even when playing with the Power Tuner app, low-end rev response was too steep for some drivers, which didn't always translate into good, consistent lap times.

One could say that the character of the 2022 engine has become softer, smoother at low speeds, but this engine does not lack power at any speed.

Overall, the engine feels lighter, revs faster, and top revs have increased.

However, the Yamaha YZ450F has not lost any torque – there is always enough of it. For the first time, Yamaha engineers have increased power across the entire rev range without sacrificing one range for another. Typically, if you increase power in the lower range, you lose in the upper range and vice versa. Yamaha says they've achieved this with the 2020 YZ450F thanks to a new timing system (improves high-RPM range) and a new combustion chamber shape and higher compression ratio (low-RPM range).

Yamaha YZ450F 2020

Controllability

I loved the handling of the 2022 Yamaha YZ450F. Some riders said they found the '19 bike to be bulky, not as precise as a Honda or Suzuki, not as light as a KTM or Husqvarna, but I could make it turn better than most other bikes and had complete confidence in it. behavior on the highway.

We noticed that the 2022 bike is a little lighter—for example, it leans into the inside corner more readily. To me, the previous YZ didn't feel heavy or bulky, so while the new bike is better in that regard, I didn't notice much change or improvement (mainly because I was already happy with everything). For those riders who have had difficulty cornering the Yamaha YZ450F, the large amount of changes (front axle, triple clamp, frame) should make the bike more responsive.

One of the Yamaha testers told me an interesting thing. While working on the 2022 motorcycle, the engine from the 2022 model was installed on the 2022 motorcycle. According to him, just replacing the engine led to improved handling of the motorcycle, he noticed that the motorcycle was more willing to turn, and it became easier to change the trajectory of the YZ.

Yamaha YZ450F 2020

Suspension

The suspension changes to the bike were especially noticeable after Yamaha took the 2022 YZ450F to the track for comparison. Overall the suspension does firm up, but it doesn't feel harsh or harsh. We didn't notice any loss of comfort, we just felt like we could go faster, and the faster we went, the better the suspension worked.

I adjusted the fork compression a few notches softer to get the fork to compress a little more when cornering, and increased the high-speed damping on the shock a bit to better balance the bike for me. The KYB suspension paired with the chassis allows you to tackle any part of the trail with confidence. The suspension is so predictable and logical that as the track gets rougher towards the end of the day, you can continue your workout at almost the same pace. Additionally, the suspension is very good at absorbing big impacts and helping you maintain composure when you run out of strength or talent.

Some new bikes for this model year (like the white ones) have more comfortable suspension settings, while others are tuned to achieve better lap times. In the past, we would have said the Yamaha was in the middle - a perfect balance of performance. But now the blue motorcycle is more suitable for a more experienced rider than a beginner.

Yamaha YZ450F 2020

We only had one day to test the new YZ450F, but what has always impressed us about Yamaha bikes is how predictable they are on different tracks. The 2022 model is no exception. On a smooth, well-groomed and level track, almost all motorcycles perform at their best. When the track gets rough, not all bikes handle equally well. The YZ chassis gives the rider stability on any trail.