Yamaha WR450F: specifications, reviews and photos

2024 Author: Erin Ralphs | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-02-19 11:42

When Yamaha introduced the modified 2015 WR250F, many wondered why its big brother WR450F didn't get the same major upgrades. A year later, when the 2016 models arrived, the WR450F seemed to be left out again. This was before the Australian Moto GP in mid-October 2015, where the company showed a completely redesigned model.

Yamaha WR450F review of changes

The design of the latest WR was heavily influenced by many riders, especially former MXGP competitor Josh Coppins. The new machine is heavily based on the engine, chassis, suspension, transmission and braking system of the World Championship winner YZ450F, which directly translates into lighter weight, more power and improved stability.

Since the first model of the revolutionary WR line, which appeared in 1998 under the name WR400F, there have been five major updates to the series. In 2001 becameproduced WR426F, and Yamaha WR450F - in 2003. In 2007, an aluminum frame appeared, and fuel injection in 2012, but until this season the bike changed little. This did not affect sales, but after a complete redesign of the 2016 model, a real boom is expected. A quick look at some of the major changes revealed a 6kg weight reduction, a chassis and suspension change, an engine change, and an improved gearbox and brake system.

Chassis

In 2016, Yamaha introduced YZF's aluminum reversible frame, which becomes immediately noticeable upon landing.

WR has a very balanced design from start to finish, a comfortable seat paired with a 5mm lower footrest for a centered fit. The difference between the YZ and WR frames is designed to adapt the latter to cross-country driving and increase the level of feedback to the driver. The size of the front engine mount has also been reduced by 2mm.

The Yamaha WR450F features a new four-link positioning system that is a great addition to the off-road upgrade package, as it allows the rider to customize their riding position without the expense of additional components. It is possible to adjust the position by +26, 5, +16, 5 and -10 mm from the standard, which significantly changes the size of the cockpit. According to users who practice traditional riding style, the standard position is fine both on the highway and on rough terrain.

In addition, the Yamaha WR450F is equipped with standard off-road wheels in sizes 18 and 21inch, which now come with black excel rims instead of silver as before. Metzeler 6 Day Extreme tires work well with them as they meet FIM specs and are very stiff.

Off-road modifications include placement on the frame of the side step, radiator fan, front and rear lights. Forced cooling comes in handy on hot days and in difficult terrain, when natural airflow is not enough.

Pendant

Like the chassis, the 2016 WR450F's suspension is based on the YZ450F. Both bikes use a KYB air/oil split front fork with 22mm offset, 114mm trail and 26.2° caster, but the WR uses a softer internal setup that is better suited to off-road riding.

A similar fate befell the rear of the bike, where KYB-spec YZF springs were used with a softer enduro setup. These small improvements have been made to ensure that the WRF can handle all aspects of off-road driving, from technical sections to high-speed straights.

Overall, compared to previous models, the new Yamaha WR450F has greatly improved handling and damping performance.

According to one motorist, during the first rides on the WRF, there was a soft bump in the front when braking, but after small adjustments to the clicker, they ceased to be felt. For those who prefer a very short and softstart, followed by a deep squeezing of the rear fork, the clicker adjustment made will provide this feeling and allow you to get comfortable with the bike faster.

The WR wobbles almost imperceptibly under braking and sits solidly when accelerating out of flat corners, which is important when racing on rough terrain. The bike is also very balanced in lateral movements, eliminating the need for heavy leaning when cornering at both low and high speeds.

The suspension that Yamaha developed for the 2016 WR450F successfully complements the updated chassis and delivers a predictable, balanced ride. Overall, owners are pleased with the changes and the knowledge that the fork and spring settings can be easily adjusted to suit any level of rider.

Engine

For 2016, Yamaha introduced a new engine layout based on the YZF that combines the reverse tilt of a new four-valve cylinder head with a front air intake and rear exhaust. The reverse and rear tilt cylinder improve exhaust and intake efficiency, optimize linear torque and ensure mass centralization. 44mm throttle body that is 2mm larger than last year. The spray angle has changed, the throttle opening characteristics have improved, the starter has been moved, the muffler has become much shorter and quieter. The possibility of both electronic and kick start is provided.

The alternator powers the electric starter, headlights and fuel injection system with 14V, 160W. The presence of two types of starting in the Yamaha WR450F is considered very practical by users, as some manufacturers rely solely on electronics, and owners of such motorcycles all too often find themselves with dead batteries before making a serious trip.

Power of the winner

Yamaha's WR450F features an upgraded 12.5:1 compression ratio that changes incredibly smoothly across the entire power curve. Riders who like bikes that deliver massive amounts of torque immediately will be pleasantly surprised by the WRF's instantaneous power delivery. Usually expect slow acceleration at first and then a quick bounce at the top end, but this machine rides pretty much exactly like its YZ450F prototype. You can shift from second to third gear in a second on almost any part of the grass track or difficult serpentine.

Power setting

Users note that the clutch is almost never required to be controlled when driving in high gears due to the smooth power delivery. When using the Yamaha Power Tuner settings to set a soft, endurance fuel and ignition map, it only takes two or three laps to determine that these settings are not suitable. Fans of punchy bottom torque will immediately know that this is not for them, even on difficult and technical trails. Fastreturning to the previous settings is easy.

Owners advise against testing WRF power transmission in wet, rocky areas… Those who think this is a good idea may need medical attention soon. In any case, the Yamaha WR450F manual, especially the safety part, is worth reading.

The Power Tuner lets you try out a variety of standard tunings. Whether you like the power delivery slow, smooth, lag, hard or bumpy, dislocating your shoulder or not, with the optional power adjuster, you can personalize your bike to suit your riding style.

The latest EFI technology guarantees efficient fuel consumption, and a modest 7.5-liter fuel tank allows you to drive over 100 km. Long-distance travel enthusiasts will need to purchase third-party solutions to increase its capacity.

Gearbox

Another major update for 2016 is the five-speed gearbox. The new design replicates the YZ450F system, but also incorporates new stronger materials in a lightweight enduro clutch capable of withstanding extreme conditions. In addition, compared to the YZF, second, third and fourth gears have been upgraded, while first and fifth remain unchanged.

Overall, the gearbox is smooth and effortless, which really lives up to the advertised "easy" clutch. Tobesides, users had no complaints about it and the clutch, and the gear ratio of 13:50 began to be a great success for all riders.

Brake

The 2016 Yamaha WR450F brake system is also borrowed from YZF. As a result, the bike now has a large 270mm front disc, although the front caliper is slightly smaller.

WRF braking performance is as expected, excellent, with users only needing a slight adjustment in front and rear brake lever height to feel right at home. Owners note the convenience of quick braking when riding on any type of terrain, which allowed them to brake with much more confidence and accelerate when they needed it.

Yamaha WR450F Specifications

• Liquid-cooled, single cylinder, 4 stroke, 449cc³_.
• Compression ratio 12, 5:1.
• Stroke: 60.8mm.
• Cylinder diameter 97.0 mm.
• Wet sump.
• Wet, multi-plate clutch.
• Induction: fuel injection, 44mm throttle body.
• TCI Transistor Ignition.
• Electronic and foot starter.
• 5-speed permanent clutch transmission.
• Half duplex frame.
• Front telescopic fork, 310mm travel.
• Step, mm: 114.
• Chassis tilt 26º 20.
• Swingarm rear suspension, 318mm travel.
• Hydraulic 1-discfront/rear brake diameter 270/245mm.
• Tires: 90/90-21 54M (front), 130/90-18 69S+M (rear).
• Dimensions, mm: 2165 x 825 x 1.280.
• Seat height, mm: 965.
• Clearance, mm: 325.
• Distance between wheels, mm: 1465.
• Fuel/oil tank, l: 7, 5/0, 95.
• Curb weight, kg: 123.

Graphics

For 2016, the WR450F will be available in Yamaha's signature blue, while customers in Australia and New Zealand will also be offered a yellow livery. This exclusive offer is a recognition of the role that buyers from these countries have played in modifying the motorcycle. As mentioned, the model will feature Black Excel rims, Bark Busters hand guards and a lightweight black tread underneath. The Yamaha WR450F plastic frame protector is available from third party manufacturers such as Light Speed or Hyde Racing. But according to user reviews, they do not quite fit this model. The frame protection from the Yamaha WR450F Hyde Racing motoboot itself damages the surface of the motorcycle, and Light Speed did not take into account the presence of the airbox cover.