Powertrain:

The Yamaha YZ450F is powered by a liquid-cooled, four-stroke, single-cylinder engine that produces 56 horsepower. This engine is mated to a five-speed transmission that allows for smooth and precise gear changes. The YZ450F also features Yamaha’s proprietary Yamaha Chip-Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) system, which provides precise throttle response and smooth power delivery.

Handling:

The Yamaha YZ450F has a lightweight aluminum frame that provides excellent handling and maneuverability. The bike’s suspension system consists of KYB Speed-Sensitive System (SSS) inverted fork and a KYB shock absorber, both of which are fully adjustable to suit different riding styles and terrain. The YZ450F also features a 270mm front disc brake and a 245mm rear disc brake, which provide excellent stopping power.

Electronics:

The Yamaha YZ450F comes with a range of advanced electronic rider aids, including the Yamaha Power Tuner app, which allows riders to adjust the bike’s fuel injection and ignition timing settings via their smartphone. The YZ450F also features launch control, traction control, and a quick shift system that allows for seamless upshifts without the need for a clutch.

Warranty:

The Yamaha YZ450F comes with a one-year limited factory warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty can be extended for an additional cost.

Price:

$9,899 ($10,099 for the Monster Energy Yamaha Racing Edition)

Updates for 2023:

The Yamaha YZ450F has not yet been updated for the 2023 model year. However, Yamaha is known for making regular updates to its motocross bikes, so it is possible that the YZ450F could receive some changes for 2023.

Specs:

• Engine: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, single-cylinder
• Displacement: 449cc
• Bore x Stroke: 97.0mm x 60.8mm
• Compression Ratio: 13.0:1
• Transmission: Five-speed
• Suspension: KYB SSS inverted fork (adjustable), KYB shock absorber (adjustable)
• Front Brake: 270mm disc
• Rear Brake: 245mm disc
• Wheelbase: 58.5 inches
• Seat Height: 38.0 inches
• Fuel Capacity: 1.6 gallons
• Weight: 245 pounds (wet)

Pros:

• High-performance four-stroke engine
• Advanced electronic rider aids, including launch control, traction control, and quick shift system
• Lightweight and maneuverable
• Fully adjustable suspension
• Excellent handling and braking
• One-year limited factory warranty

Cons:

• Limited fuel capacity
• Tall seat height may be challenging for shorter riders
• Higher price point compared to other motocross bikes
• May require more maintenance than a two-stroke engine

The post Yamaha YZ450F Buyer’s Guide appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

The Yamaha YZ125 is a two-stroke motocross bike that has been a popular choice for riders of all skill levels for over 20 years. This dirt bike has a lightweight frame, high-performance engine, and excellent handling that makes it perfect for racing or just riding off-road. The YZ125 has been refined over the years and is now one of the best motocross bikes in its class. This buyer’s guide will provide you with all the information you need to know about the Yamaha YZ125, including its powertrain, handling, brakes, electronics, warranty, and updates for 2023.

Powertrain:

The Yamaha YZ125 is powered by a liquid-cooled, two-stroke, single-cylinder engine that produces 35 horsepower. This engine is mated to a six-speed transmission that allows for quick and smooth gear changes. The YZ125 also features Yamaha’s Power Valve System (YPVS), which improves low-end torque and mid-range power delivery. This system uses a servo motor to adjust the exhaust port height, optimizing power delivery for different riding conditions.

Handling:

The Yamaha YZ125 has a lightweight aluminum frame that provides excellent handling and maneuverability. The bike’s suspension system consists of a KYB inverted fork and a KYB shock absorber, both of which are fully adjustable to suit different riding styles and terrain. The YZ125 also features a 270mm front disc brake and a 240mm rear disc brake, which provide excellent stopping power.

Electronics:

The Yamaha YZ125 does not come with any electronic rider aids, as it is a pure motocross bike designed for racing and off-road riding. However, the bike does feature a digital CDI ignition system, which provides reliable ignition timing and ensures smooth power delivery.

Warranty:

The Yamaha YZ125 comes with a one-year limited factory warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. This warranty can be extended for an additional cost.

Price:

$8,299.00 – $8,499.00

Updates for 2023:

The Yamaha YZ125 has not yet been updated for the 2023 model year. However, Yamaha is known for making regular updates to its motocross bikes, so it is possible that the YZ125 could receive some changes for 2023.

Yamaha YZ125 Specs:

• Engine: Liquid-cooled, two-stroke, single-cylinder
• Displacement: 125cc
• Bore x Stroke: 54.0mm x 54.5mm
• Compression Ratio: 8.6:1
• Transmission: Six-speed
• Suspension: KYB inverted fork (adjustable), KYB shock absorber (adjustable)
• Front Brake: 270mm disc
• Rear Brake: 240mm disc
• Wheelbase: 56.8 inches
• Seat Height: 38.4 inches
• Fuel Capacity: 2.1 gallons
• Weight: 207 pounds (wet)

Pros:

• Lightweight and maneuverable
• High-performance engine with Yamaha’s Power Valve System
• Fully adjustable suspension
• Excellent handling and braking
• One-year limited factory warranty

Cons:

• Two-stroke engine may require more maintenance than a four-stroke engine
• No electronic rider aids
• Tall seat height may be challenging for shorter riders
• Limited fuel capacity

The post Yamaha YZ125 Buyer’s Guide appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

You know the age-old saying, “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it?” Well, that pretty much sums up the 2019 YZ450F because Yamaha’s big dog motocrosser was all new and completely revised for 2018. Last year’s model was a favorite amongst many riders of different levels and abilities – including yours truly – for various reasons, and the 2019 brings back all of the 2018’s strengths. However, Yamaha’s testers and engineers polished a couple areas and made a few tweaks this year that may sound trivial on paper but provide significant improvements in the actual riding experience.

To understand what makes the 2019 so much better than the 2018, we have to talk a little about the ’18 first. The YZ450F has never been criticized in the motor/power department. It provides some of the broadest, most usable power available – almost too much sometimes – and the same motor is carried over this year. The only differences are an improved electric starter that reduces engine drag and horsepower loss (as if it needed any more) and a blue valve cover. The motor has a great bottom end which doesn’t mind being lugged, but it’s also super snappy and spins up quickly with great over rev.

On most tracks, I get around just fine by keeping 450s mostly in second and third gear, and occasionally fourth on tracks with longer straights or bigger booters that require a little extra speed to clear, but I found the YZ450F allowed me to really ring the motor out further than I’m used to. The 2018 model features a 48-tooth rear sprocket, which I loved for the added over-rev speed, but at times, for me, felt a smidge too tall in some corners, as if I was just on the cusp of being between gears. Of course, this was nothing a little clutching couldn’t fix, but I’m lazy when it comes to riding 450s. I prefer to use their raw power to carry me through a turn.

We got to ride both the ’18 and ’19 back-to-back at Glen Helen to get a feel for the differences between the two, and the 2019’s 49-tooth sprocket truly made a noticeable difference. The same corners where I would possibly bog a little bit or have to drop a gear on the ’18, I could power right through with zero hiccups or hesitations on the ’19. This meant I could carry more corner speed and that I didn’t have to shift as soon because I was more often in the meat of the powerband. That one tooth increase, as trivial as it may sound, had a huge effect on the bike’s overall engine character, especially on the bottom end, and it lost almost nothing on top – nothing a rider of my ability would suffer from, anyhow.

As improved as the bike felt with just a simple sprocket change, the biggest revisions to the 2019 YZ450F come in the suspension and handling department. Unlike other manufacturers, Yamaha has always stuck with the tried and true spring forks – no split air forks here – and the KYB SSS fork is great in offering plush action in the choppy stuff, nice control and progressive feel throughout its travel and impressive bottoming resistance under both slap-down and g-out impacts.

As nice and plush as the suspension felt, the 2018 YZ450F was often criticized to be sprung on the softer side, which for most riders was rarely a problem a little tuning couldn’t fix, but it was much more noticeable for the faster guys. It tended to dive under heavy braking and then would seesaw rearward when getting back on the gas. This made it somewhat difficult to get a settled, level and composed feeling through the turns, especially in deeper ruts that require precise balance and throttle control to navigate. Yamaha took this into heavy consideration for 2019 and improved the suspension, making it stiffer with increased compression damping both front and rear, allowing the bike to ride higher in its stroke. Jumping from the 2018 to the 2019, you could definitely feel a difference, especially once the pace picked up. The 2019 YZ450F almost made the ’18 feel softer, like a trail bike, in comparison.

Speaking of softness, another aspect some riders noticed about the 2018 YZ450F was its soft seat, and for 2019, Yamaha has increased its density by 16%. Climbing off the ’18 and onto the ’19, it was the first thing you’d notice. Again, 16% might not seem like a huge difference on paper, but it’s something your gluteus maximus feels instantly. I never had a problem with the ’18 seat being too soft as I try to stand as much as possible unless I’m really pouring the coal through a turn, and I also ride my MX bikes off-road for hours on end at a time, so the extra plushness isn’t always a bad thing when you’re in the saddle all day.

On the track though, the stiffer seat definitely makes the bike feel more nimble in the sense that you’re sitting more on top of the bike rather than in it. Some riders said they would bottom out and feel the seat base or frame rails in a heavily compressed corner or while seat bouncing, but it never really bothered me enough to consider it a detriment. The stiffer seat also allows you to move around and slide up on the bike more freely, and you can really get up on the tank to weigh the front tire for quick turns.

Further aiding the rider in making quicker, more planted feeling turns are the redesigned front fork lugs, axle brackets and wheel collars. They’re larger for 2019 and the increased surface area contact zone between them offers added rigidity which provides better tracking and feeling on initial lean in. These are the types of refinements that as seemingly insignificant as them may sound, make the biggest differences in handling. It’s tweaks like these that factory teams are after – little things that make the bike handle better. According to Yamaha, the 2019 Yamaha YZ450F makes between 54-55 hp in stock form, and the factory race bike that Justin Barcia rides makes between 58 to 60 hp depending on the track – any more and the bike becomes un-rideable. If 5 additional ponies over stock is too much for guys like Bam Bam, then 55 hp is more than plenty for us mortals.

In fact, the day we rode the 2019 YZ450F at Glen Helen, it was pro day and the track was cut deep – deeper than what I’m typically used to – and the crew at GH is on top of keeping the track watered, which means certain areas can get slick. The YZ450F comes with three preconfigured engine maps: Linear Torque for hard pack conditions, Smooth Linear for slippery and Hard Hitting for loamy. I started off in Linear Torque (basically the middle ground) and felt pretty good, but sometimes the throttle felt just a little too peppy from completely off to on – especially on this rough track. If I didn’t come into a corner smoothly enough, a small unintentional bump of the throttle would lurch the bike forward, momentarily throwing me off my rhythm.

A quick trip back to the pits, and I could whip out my phone, open the Yamaha Power Tuner App and switch engine maps (which is free and available for both Apple and Android users). I bumped it down to the Smooth Linear map, where the initial hit off the bottom is subdued, and I was back on the track in minutes. No longer did I have any problems with a touchy twist grip over braking bumps into the chopped up corners. I felt more confident coming into them knowing I was able to get on the gas more smoothly without any herky-jerkiness. For shits and giggles I also tried the Hard Hitting map, and it’s just that. If I owned the 2019 YZ450F I don’t know if I’d ever use that map unless I was riding dunes in the desert. Like we mentioned earlier, the YZ450F has never been accused of being slow.

Using Wi-Fi to connect to the bike’s onboard CAN-bus network via a Communication Control Unit (CCU), the Yamaha Power Tuner App lets you do more than just select other maps. You can also custom tune your own by adjusting the air/fuel mixture and ignition timing maps to tweak engine performance for track conditions or even altitude – all within minutes, and it’s as simple as changing numbers in a mapping chart. The beauty of it, though, is that it’s educational for those with a little patience and desire to play around with it, and Yamaha has limited the parameters so that it’s virtually impossible to cause damage to your motor with a wildly radical map setting. Additionally, you can also record race log information, monitor a range of data such as maintenance and system diagnostics, engine run time, and more. The most useful perk for me would be knowing exactly how much time I have on the oil and when to change it, to keep up on all the maintenance intervals.

Overall, despite seemingly trivial tweaks here and there, the 2019 YZ450F is a night and day improvement over the ’18. With a one tooth bigger rear sprocket, its motor lays the power down even better than before, and the chassis’ refinements make the bike easier and more fun to ride. We all know riding a 450 can get rowdy, and these refinements help it be more forgiving, too. If you’re in the market for a new 450, the 2019 Yamaha YZ450F is definitely a bike to consider. It’s currently available in dealerships nationwide and will run you $9,299, but if you already have an ’18, you don’t need to trade up for a ’19 unless you have cash burning a hole in your pocket. Many of these improvements aside from the front fork lugs, axle brackets and wheel collars are all availabe through the aftermarket.

The post 2019 Yamaha YZ450F First Ride Review appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

We all enjoy motorcycling for a variety of reasons, and one of those reasons is to get away from it all, and that includes our precious cellphones, which unfortunately we’ve become glued to. On the flip side, cellphones are an incredible tool that have made our lives exponentially more convenient, and Yamaha has just announced its Yamaha Power Tuner Smartphone App. The free app lets you do a number of things including mapping your fueling, ignition timing, recording lap times, service intervals and a variety of other things. Watch the video below for more info.

Yamaha:

June 11, 2018 – The free Yamaha Power Tuner Smartphone app, putting the flexibility and precision tunability of the Power Tuner into your smartphone. Make fueling and ignition timing changes instantly and upload them to your Yamaha bike via the onboard WiFi system for the ultimate in track-side tuning. Yamaha Power Tuner Smartphone App now available at Google Play and the App Store.

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The post Yamaha Introduces its Free Yamaha Power Tuner Smartphone App appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

The 2019 off-road new model bike season is in full swing, and Yamaha is the latest manufacturer to announce its full lineup of motocross and cross-country motorcycles. Over the past couple of seasons, Yamaha has made big steps in expanding its model range with the introduction of the FX models in both 250 and 450cc configurations. Additionally, it’s the only Japanese manufacturer to continue producing full-size two-strokes, including the YZ125 and YZ250 motocrossers, as well as the recently introduced cross-country oriented YZ250X.

The bLUcRU hasn’t forgotten about the little guys either. The all-new YZ65 was announced just a couple months ago, and the YZ85 has received extensive upgrades for 2019, too. But this season, it’s the YZ250F that’s received the most love. Last year, the 2018 YZ450F got a major overhaul, and it was only a matter of time before those upgrades trickled down to its 250cc little brother.

For 2019, the YZ250F gets an all-new engine, with updated cam profiles, piston, cylinder geometry, throttle body, a larger diameter clutch and electric start. The chassis is redesigned too, with modifications to the frame and bodywork to improve handling and make the overall feel of the bike slimmer and more nimble to move around on. Additionally, the entire model range received upgrades and updates to its KYB suspension components, with larger fork cartridges and damping rods. And possibly 2019’s crowning jewel, most four-stroke models now feature a wireless smartphone based engine tuner – scroll down to find out more.

What’s missing, unfortunately, is a street-legal YZ450F-inspired dual-sport. After Honda’s recent announcement of its CRF450L, we’re hoping a blue version comes along soon…

Yamaha Motor Co.:

Yamaha Introduces Completely Redesigned YZ250F and Updated YZ450F for 2019

Smartphone Power Tuner App Technology Highlights Model Features

Cypress, CA – June 6, 2018 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, today introduced the entirely redesigned 2019 YZ250F, complete with electric start and the world’s first smartphone engine tuning app featured for a production 250cc motocross bike. An all-new engine, new frame, new bodywork and more are also major focal points of the extensive model redesign.

The 2019 YZ450F returns to the lineup with several updates, including updated suspension settings, changes to the electric start system and more.

2019 YZ250F

The 2019 YZ250F utilizes an all-new engine design that features electric starting, a new cylinder head, piston, cam shaft profile, cylinder geometry, larger diameter clutch and more. Working together, these changes produce more mid-range and top-end power and deliver class-leading engine performance.

The bilateral beam frame is all-new with an optimized engine mounting position to improve the machine’s rigidity balance, resulting in improved cornering ability and traction. Redesigned bodywork and ergonomics provide a lighter and more compact feel with easier rider movement, while the class leading KYB suspension with updated internal components provides the optimal balance between comfort and race-winning performance.

World’s First Production Power Tuner App

Yamaha is breaking new ground in the industry again, with the 2019 YZ250F becoming the world’s first production 250cc motocross bike with a wireless smartphone based engine tuner. Yamaha introduced the Power Tuner app, which brings the power of the GYTR Power Tuner to your iOS® or Android® device. Using Wi-Fi to connect to the bike’s onboard CAN-bus network via a Communication Control Unit (CCU), the app allows owners to adjust air/fuel mixture and ignition timing maps to tune engine performance for track conditions, record race log information, and monitor a range of data such as maintenance and system diagnosis, engine run time, and more.

The Yamaha Power Tuner App, first released with the 2018 YZ450F, makes it possible to modify engine mapping in greater detail than previously possible. It also allows users to share settings among their team or with friends (along with other information), thus evolving the system into a tool that facilitates group communication.

Dual-Mode Switchable Engine Mapping

Two-mode adjustable engine mapping allows the rider to adjust engine character with the push of a button, making it easy to tune the YZ250F for changing track or weather conditions.

All-New Electric Start

Utilizing a compact starter motor and ultra-lightweight lithium-ion battery, the 2019 YZ250F brings the convenience of push-button starting to the racetrack for quick and effortless restarts under pressure, and relaxed riding when the clock isn’t ticking. Powered by a high-capacity and ultra-lightweight lithium-ion battery, the system adds minimal weight.

New Engine

For 2019, Yamaha has refined its distinct rearward-slanted cylinder design for the YZ250F engine. The liquid-cooled, DOHC 4-valve, fuel-injected engine features a forward-positioned straight downdraft intake with symmetrical intake and exhaust ports. Fuel is delivered by a lighter 44mm throttle body, through a new 12-hole Denso® injector. A new, higher-compression flat-top forged piston features a bridge-box design for additional strength with minimal weight. The piston, rings and DLC-coated piston pin, along with the offset cylinder configuration, all reduce friction loss and contribute to quick response.

The engine’s intake ports, cam profiles, high-strength connecting rod and optimized crank and counterbalancer all work together to produce more potent mid-to-high-rpm power with user-friendly delivery and exceptional reliability. The new cylinder is also lighter and angled more upright to improve mass-centralization.

The 2019 YZ250F’s transmission and clutch were also overhauled for a more direct connection as well as enhanced durability. The gears and shift drum have been revised for lighter weight, and the dogs and shift mechanisms are designed to smooth gear changes and improve durability under the heavy demands of motocross racing. A larger-diameter clutch is also a new feature, designed to improve feel and boost reliability even further under high-heat conditions.

The radiators and exhaust system have also been modified for improved performance and weight distribution. The updated radiators are larger and angled more directly into the incoming air stream for improved cooling under the most demanding race conditions. The innovative wraparound exhaust pipe design improves mass concentration and improves power development, with revised geometry for 2019. The new layout moves the rear end of the exhaust pipe farther forward and enables a muffler position closer to the bike’s center of mass.

New Frame and Optimized Ergonomics

The compact bilateral beam frame is completely new for 2019, and it further refines the instinctive feel that makes this Yamaha the best handling machine in the class. Designed to improve contact to the ground and provide the best possible balance of stiffness for bump absorption and effortless cornering, the all-new frame features a redesigned swingarm pivot area along with redesigned upper frame bracing and rear frame spars. All-new engine mounts that centralize mass and increase rigidity on lateral, horizontal and vertical axis help to provide an ideal balance between cornering feel and straight-line rigidity.

New Compact Body and Seat Design

Surrounding the fully-redesigned chassis, the 2019 YZ250F features a new lighter, compact body from tip to tail. The radiator shrouds incorporate a new air duct with a concave shape that not only improves styling, but is also narrower for better knee grip and overall rider movement. The seat height has been reduced by 8mm towards the front and almost 20mm lower at the tail end, giving the rider better maneuverability on the bike.

Easily Tuned KYB® Coil Spring Suspension

The industry-leading, fully adjustable KYB^® coil spring-type forks with speed sensitive damping receive updated settings, larger pistons and newly designed fork lugs/axle brackets to provide exceptional balance between handling and bump absorption for race-winning performance. The KYB^® shock boasts new damping characteristics to match the new chassis as well as a new, lighter-weight spring. The reservoir has been increased 30cc to increase damping control during long motos.

Lighter Wheels

Careful computer-aided refinement of the EXCEL rim’s cross-sectional profile shaves valuable un-sprung weight without sacrificing durability, while wheel collars with increased rigidity provide an improved feeling of contact to the ground when braking and a clear feeling of traction.

Price, Color and Availability

Available in either Team Yamaha Blue or White color schemes, complete with the onboard Communication Control Unit (CCU) and the Yamaha Smartphone Power Tuner App, the all-new 2019 YZ250F will arrive at Yamaha dealers beginning in June 2018 with a MSRP of $8,199.

2019 YZ450F

The potent YZ450F went through a complete redesign in 2018 and enjoyed immediate success on-and-off the race track. It returns for 2019 with its powerful yet easy to use engine, simple electric starting, rearward-slanted cylinder design with rear exhaust and forward mounted downdraft intake system as well as Yamaha’s exclusive Power Tuner iOS^® and Android^® App and communication control unit.

Other returning features of the 2019 YZ450F include the compact bilateral beam frame, compact body, adjustable ergonomics and industry leading KYB^® Coil Spring Suspension.

New features for the 2019 YZ450F include:

• Updated suspension settings for improved feeling of traction
• Redesigned front fork lugs/ axle brackets for improved rigidity and front-end feel
• Redesigned front and rear wheel collars for improved feeling of traction
• Updated starter system to reduce drag and horsepower loss
• Increased seat foam density
• Blue valvetrain cover

Price, Color and Availability

Available in either Team Yamaha Blue or White color schemes, complete with the onboard Communication Control Unit (CCU) and the Yamaha Smartphone Power Tuner App, the 2019 YZ450F will arrive at Yamaha dealers beginning in June 2018 with a MSRP of $9,299.

Yamaha 2-Stroke Motocross Models for 2019

Lineup Includes the New YZ85

Cypress, CA – June 6, 2018 –Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, today announced their exciting 2-stroke motocross models for 2019. Highlighted by the new YZ85, the 2-stroke lineup includes the return of the iconic YZ125 and YZ250.

New 2019 YZ85

The new 2019 YZ85 youth motocross bike arrives with major redesigns purely focused on performance. Featuring an all-new engine, suspension, and more, the YZ85 is designed to provide Yamaha bLU cRU riders with race-winning performance and unrivaled reliability.

All-New Engine

A newly-designed 85cc liquid-cooled 2-stroke engine featuring a case reed-valve intake and a mechanical Yamaha Power Valve System (YPVS) lies at the heart of the 2019 YZ85. Combined with a redesigned cylinder and head, crankcase, crankshaft, connecting rod, transmission, exhaust and CDI unit, this new YZ engine provides broad, tractable power across the rev range without losing peak power at high RPM.

Updated Chassis and Optimized Ergonomics

The semi-double-cradle steel frame, removable subframe and redesigned aluminum swing-arm provide a nimble feel, confident handling and ease of maintenance. The ergonomics feature a flat, comfortable seat, four-position adjustable aluminum tapered handlebars and adjustable-reach levers to provide comfort and ease of movement for a wide range of young rider sizes.

Updated Brake System

For 2019, a new, stiffer front brake line with new routing improves braking feel, while wave-style brake discs offer improved self-cleaning and cooler-running performance. The 220mm front disc and 190mm rear disc deliver strong, precise stopping power.

Easily Tuned KYB® Coil Spring Suspension

The new YZ85 features KYB^®’s race-proven, fully adjustable 36mm coil spring fork with one-piece outer tubes and tapered shape to provide optimal rigidity balance. This provides exceptional handling, bump absorption and ease of set-up for race-winning performance. The KYB^® fully adjustable link-type shock utilizes specially designed damping characteristics to match the new chassis.

Price, Color and Availability

The all-new 2019 YZ85 will be available in Team Yamaha Blue and will arrive at Yamaha dealers starting in June 2018, with a MSRP of $4,599.

2019 YZ125 and YZ250

The legendary YZ125 and YZ250 models return for 2019 to complete Yamaha’s lineup of 2-stroke motocross bikes. Lightweight aluminum frames and patented YPVS-equipped (Yamaha Power Valve System), reed-valve inducted engines provide an incredible power-to-weight ratio while maintaining Yamaha’s excellent reliability and durability. Both the YZ125 and YZ250 each receive the same industry leading KYB spring-type fork and KYB rear shock for unmatched handling on the track.

The 2019 YZ125 and YZ250 will be available in Team Yamaha Blue and begin arriving at Yamaha dealerships in June with MSRP’s of $6,499 and $7,399 respectively.

Yamaha 2019 Cross Country Motorcycle Models

All-New YZ450FX Leads Cross Country Lineup with Race-Winning Performance and Technology

Cypress, CA – June 6, 2018 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, today introduced the company’s roster of championship-ready cross-country motorcycle models for 2019. The lineup is headed by the competition-focused YZ450FX and includes the return of the race-winning YZ250FX, and YZ250X.

2019 YZ450FX

The 2019 YZ450FX utilizes an all-new engine design that features a new cylinder head, piston, cam shaft profiles, cylinder geometry and more – all working together to deliver class leading power and even more controllability for Cross Country racing. Its bilateral beam frame is all-new with an optimized engine mounting position to improve the machine’s rigidity balance, resulting in improved cornering ability and traction.

World’s First Production Power Tuner App

The 2019 YZ450FX is the world’s first production Cross Country bike with a wireless smartphone based engine tuner. The new Yamaha Power Tuner iOS^® and Android^® App and communication control unit connects the rider with the bike like never before. The Yamaha Power Tuner App can make fuel and ignition mapping changes – uploaded wirelessly to the bike via the onboard Wi-Fi system – for the ultimate in track-side tuning. A “Log” function allows you to make notes about your riding location, conditions, bike settings and more, giving you a baseline for future rides. The app can also monitor a range of information such as RPM, throttle position, engine coolant temperature and more. There is also a maintenance function with customizable trip meters to monitor run times for a selection of components.

The Yamaha Power Tuner App, which was first released with the 2018 YZ450F, makes it possible to modify engine mapping in greater detail than previously possible. It also allows users to share settings among their team or with friends (along with other information) thus evolving the system into a tool that facilitates group communication.

Updated Electric Start

Utilizing a more compact starter motor with revised positioning and an ultra-lightweight lithium-ion battery, the 2019 YZ450FX brings the weight of the electric start system closer to the bike’s center of mass for a lighter feel and quicker handling. Powered by a high-capacity and ultra-lightweight lithium-ion battery, the system is lighter than ever.

Dual-Mode Switchable Engine Mapping

Two-mode adjustable engine mapping allows the rider to adjust engine character with the push of a button, making it easy to tune the YZ450FX for changing terrain or weather conditions.

New Engine

For 2019, Yamaha has refined its distinct rearward-slanted cylinder design for the YZ450FX engine – complete with a rear exhaust and forward-mounted downdraft intake system. The all-new cylinder head features a more upright slant to work with the bike’s updated frame for optimized front weight distribution. Inside, the engine features new cam shaft profiles, a new crankshaft, a high-compression “box bridge” piston design with a DLC-coated (Diamond-like Carbon) piston pin, and breathes through a 44mm Mikuni^® throttle body. Together, these updates give the rider an ideal balance of 450cc class power with exceptional control and response.

The wide-ratio transmission and clutch have been overhauled for a more direct connection as well as enhanced durability with a lighter clutch pull. Revised gears, along with an optimized clutch that features a redesigned outer pressure plate, combine to boost controllability and durability.

The YZ450FX radiators and exhaust have also been modified for improved performance and weight distribution. The updated radiators feature a larger core size and are angled more directly into the incoming air stream for improved cooling under the most demanding cross-country race conditions. The innovative wraparound exhaust pipe design improves mass concentration and power development, with revised geometry for 2019. The new layout moves the rear end of the exhaust pipe farther forward and enables a muffler position closer to the bike’s center of mass.

New Frame and Optimized Ergonomics

The all-new compact bilateral beam frame of the YZ450FX further refines its instinctive handling.

Redesigned upper frame bracing, rear frame spars and all new engine mounts centralize mass and increase rigidity on lateral, horizontal and vertical axis to provide an ideal balance between cornering feel and straight-line rigidity. Simply said, the new frame was designed to improve contact to the ground and provide the best possible balance of stiffness for bump, rock and root absorption, as well as effortless cornering.

Surrounding this fully redesigned chassis, the 2019 YZ450FX features a new lighter, compact body from tip to tail including a larger, mass-centralized fuel tank. The radiator shrouds incorporate a new air duct with a concave shape that not only improves styling, but is also narrower for better knee grip and overall rider movement. To further aid rider movement and comfort, the seat height has been reduced and the aluminum tapered handlebars are four-way adjustable.

Industry Leading KYB® Coil Spring Suspension with new Settings

The industry-leading, fully adjustable KYB^®, SSS coil spring-type forks with speed sensitive damping receive updated valving, larger pistons and newly designed fork lugs/axle brackets to provide an improved feeling of traction and an exceptional balance between handling and bump absorption for race-winning performance. The KYB^® shock also features reworked valving specs and damping characteristics to improve traction feel in and out of corners. Both ends are optimized for Grand National Cross Country (GNCC) and Hare Scrambles racing.

Cross Country Specific Features

In addition to the Wide-Ratio transmission and specifically tuned suspension, the 2019 YZ450FX features a larger capacity fuel tank, newly designed composite skid-plate, redesigned aluminum side-stand, an 18-inch rear wheel, sealed O-Ring chain and special ECU settings to maximize performance, rideability, and reliability in grueling Cross-Country conditions.

The 2019 YZ450FX will be available at Yamaha dealerships beginning in July with a MSRP of $9,499.

2019 YZ250FX

The YZ250FX returns for 2019 with its powerful yet easy-to-use engine, simple electric starting, rearward-slanted cylinder design with rear exhaust and forward mounted downdraft intake system for strong, easy to access power that is optimized for cross-country racing. Its bilateral beam aluminum frame provides a nimble lightweight feeling in tight technical terrain, while still providing confidence-inspiring stability in fast sections and Yamaha’s industry leading KYB® coil spring suspension provides comfort and performance in any off-road condition.

The 2019 YZ250FX will be available at Yamaha dealerships beginning in June with a $7,999 MSRP.

2019 YZ250X

Yamaha’s 2019 YZ250X brings two-stroke performance to cross country racing. Its lightweight aluminum frame and proven reed-valve inducted engine is race-ready. Based on the YZ250 motocross model, the YZ250X features a revised compression ratio, revised exhaust port, revised power valve timing, and model specific CDI unit for improved trail performance. All these features are focused on creating a wide, controllable power character ideal for cross country racing.

The 2019 YZ250X will be available at Yamaha dealerships beginning in June with a $7,499 MSRP.

The post 2019 Yamaha Off-Road YZ Motocross and Cross-Country Model Line First Look appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

CYPRESS, CA – April 10, 2018 – Yamaha Motor Corp., USA, employees celebrated the company’s Outdoor Access Initiative’s (OAI) 10-year anniversary this past weekend, through the completion of their 10^th volunteer project in the San Bernardino National Forest in support of OHV access opportunities. Working with members of the Southern California Mountains Foundation (SCMF) and U.S. Forest Service (USFS), the effort continued a 10-year tradition of Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative volunteer projects in the nation’s most frequently visited forest.

For a decade, the Yamaha OAI has led the motorized recreation industry in creating and defending access to land for outdoor recreation through efforts promoting safe, responsible use of OHVs, educating the public on proper recreational land use and wildlife conservation practices, and protecting appropriate and sustainable access to public lands. In celebration of this milestone, more than 80 volunteers, including Yamaha employees, their friends and family members gathered at the Cactus Flats OHV Staging Area, near Big Bear Lake, California, to contribute more than 250 hours of volunteer service through projects including staging area and trail restoration and maintenance.

“For 10 years, Yamaha employees, the Southern California Mountains Foundation, and U.S. Forest Service volunteers have come together to realize OAI’s mission,” said Steve Nessl, Yamaha’s ATV/SxS group marketing manager. “Yamaha is dedicated to supporting sustainable access to public lands like the San Bernardino National Forest – and each year our employees, families and friends invest their personal time in these projects, because outdoor recreation is a major part of our lives.”

“Yamaha Motor Corporation has been a valuable partner for more than a decade and has helped us accomplish numerous restoration projects in the San Bernardino National Forest,” said Stacy Gorin, executive officer of the Southern California Mountains Foundation. “This 10-year anniversary is a significant milestone for Yamaha, but also for our work together as we continue to act on our mutual, long term commitment to OHV land stewardship, and our mission of educating people to recreate responsibly.”

For more information on the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative, or to submit a grant application for similar projects, visit www.YamahaOAI.com. Follow Yamaha Outdoors at Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. #Yamaha #YamahaOAI #REALizeYourAdventure #ProvenOffRoad #SocialGood #CSR #Volunteer #Philanthropy

About the Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative
The Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative is the industry leader in guaranteeing responsible access to our nation’s land for outdoor enthusiasts. Through this program, Yamaha has directly and indirectly supported thousands of miles of motorized recreation trails, maintained and rehabilitated riding and hunting areas, improved staging areas, supplied agricultural organizations with essential OHV safety education, built bridges over fish-bearing streams and partnered with local outdoor enthusiast communities across the country to improve access to public lands. Each quarter, Yamaha accepts applications from nonprofit or tax-exempt organizations including OHV riding clubs and associations, national, state and local public land use agencies, outdoor enthusiast associations and land conservation groups with an interest in protecting, improving, expanding and/or maintaining access for safe, responsible and sustainable public use. A committee then reviews each application and awards grants to deserving projects. Examples of appropriate projects for grants include, but are not limited to:

• Trail development, restoration and maintenance
• Trail signage and map production
• Staging area construction, renovation and maintenance
• Land stewardship, safety and education

Updated guidelines, an application form and information on the Outdoor Access Initiative are available at www.YamahaOAI.com. For specific questions about the Outdoor Access Initiative, call Yamaha’s dedicated hotline at 1-877-OHV-TRAIL (877-648-8724), email OHVAccess@Yamaha-Motor.com or write to:

Yamaha Outdoor Access Initiative
Yamaha Motor Corp., USA
1270 Chastain Road
Kennesaw, GA 30144

The post Yamaha Employees Celebrate 10th Anniversary of the Company’s Outdoor Access Initiative appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

Cypress, Calif. – April 12, 2018 – The Monster Energy/Yamaha Factory Racing Team is excited to head into this Saturday’s Minneapolis SX with its complete two-rider roster as Justin Barcia makes his return to racing for Round 14 of the 2018 Monster Energy AMA Supercross Championship at U.S. Bank Stadium. Cooper Webb looks to carry his momentum from a top-five finish at last week’s tough-mudder to focus his sights ahead on a race-win in Minnesota.

It’s been a week-by-week evaluation for Barcia’s recovery process but the Monster Energy/Yamaha Factory Racing Team is happy to report that Justin’s diligent therapy and rehabilitation has paid dividends and his hand has improved dramatically over the past week. As for Webb, he continues to display determination and tenacity week after week since his shoulder injury prior to Round 11 and he enters this weekend feeling as close to 100% as ever before. 

Cooper Webb, 450SX #2 – Monster Energy/Yamaha Factory Racing Team Rider

“Seattle was a survival race! I’m glad that one is over but I really did have some fun out there and enjoyed it. I’m happy to walk out of there with a solid top-five and collect good points on a hectic night of racing. This week has been awesome here in North Carolina, my outdoor track is getting built and I’ve been switching things up a bit and plan on bringing some more intensity into Minneapolis!”

Justin Barcia, 450SX #51 – Monster Energy/Yamaha Factory Racing Team Rider 

“I’m very excited to be back racing this weekend in Minneapolis! It’s been tough watching, so this makes it even more fun to be back at the races – kind of like Anaheim I for me. I’m looking forward to seeing how my speed is since the last time I was actually racing. I’ve been training hard both on and off my dirt bike and I definitely believe I have the speed and fitness to be up front.”

Meet the Yamaha bLU cRU Supercross Riders

Friday night, from 6-7 p.m., stop by Motoprimo at 16640 Kenrick Ave. in Lakeville, Minnesota, where Cooper Webb and Justin Barcia will be on hand to meet fans, sign autographs and give away posters.

Additional Yamaha bLU cRU Supercross riders who will be at Motoprimo include:

• Monster Energy/Yamalube/Star/Yamaha Racing fill-in rider, Thomas Ramette
• CycleTrader/Rock River/Yamaha’s Brandon Hartranft and Alex Ray

For more Yamaha racing news, results, photos, and videos, visit http://www.YamahaMotorsports.com/Racing

Also, check out “YamahaMotorUSA” on your favorite social media site.

The post Justin Barcia Returns to Racing Supercross This Saturday in Minneapolis appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

The post Josh Hill to Fill In for Justin Barcia at Seattle Monster Energy Supercross appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

IRVINE, CA – March 22, 2018 – Answer Racing, Iron Cobras, and WLF Enduro have joined forces for “Dirt Don’t Hurt,” a film launching Answer Racing’s new OPS (Off-road Performance Series) riding apparel line.

In 1976, Answer Racing was founded on a mission to ride dirt bikes as much as possible, and have as much fun as possible. Today, we teamed up with riders, builders, and an idea to showcase that original mission to riders looking to get out there more, and to those just exploring the world dirt bikes have to offer. As with most great ideas, “Dirt Don’t Hurt” and its two mechanical heroes were dreamt up around a campfire surrounded by friends.

The Answer Racing crew has always loved the off-road space and, after years in the lab, we’re ready to field test our world-class off-road apparel line. Fortunately, when your friends are incredible bike builders like Iron Cobras’ Evan Scott and WLF Enduro founders Luke Takahashi and Keith Culver, a healthy dose of dirt testing is merely an email away.

Within hours, the assembled crew had a plan: 2 bike builds – one inspired by off road’s past, and one its DAKAR-tested present, a group of friends, and one mega trail test from Southern California to The One Show in Portland, Oregon.

Two 2017 Yamaha WR450F dirt bikes were acquired. One would become The 81 – a vintage inspired shred machine. The other would become The Ghost, a modern rally-inspired beast.

Evan Scott of Iron Cobra Fabrication only had six weeks to take the bikes from stock to a show form that could also handle a week of punishment. It was down to the wire, but the bikes were ready to go.

Scott Sagud of MAG Group and Keith Culver of WLF Enduro, the two guys beginning the trip with Scott, convinced him that the trip was pointless if they babied the bikes. The ensuing ride would be a torture test for gear, bike, and rider, and out the other end all three remained mostly unscathed, minus a few well-earned broken bones and dents.

The final day of riding would be at the Pacific Northwest’s Holy Grail: Tillamook State Forest. With the rest of the WLF Enduro crew joining, they had perfect conditions for many of their first times at this world-renowned riding spot, making for a day they’ll never forget.

Finally, our band of merry men ended the trip at The One Moto Show in Portland, Oregon, where The 81 and Ghost sat amongst the custom world’s best and garnered more than their fair share of attention both for their appearance and the mud tracks they brought in through the front door.

From heat, sand, mud, rain, and trips to the ER – bikes, bodies and the upcoming Answer Racing OPS kit came out the other end ready for the trails ahead and the stories yet to be made.

About Answer Racing

Answer Racing started in 1976 with the goal to provide hardcore motocross enthusiasts with products they can trust. Fast forward to today and Answer Racing has not lost sight of the original vision. We put our 40 years of experience behind bars into every product we make. Whether you are a diehard racer or a weekend warrior, we’ve got you covered.

About Answer Racing OPS (Offroad Performance Series)

OPS is an expansive range of off-road apparel and accessories geared toward rugged conditions where performance, comfort, and durability are non-negotiable. Through collective decades of off-road riding, our team has identified areas in which innovative product can elevate the rider’s experience. We noticed most off-road gear is re-purposed mx gear. So we decided to incorporate lightweight and durable Cordura Stretch fabrics, heat resistant aramids, Cooling fabrics from 37.5, high denier nylons, waterproof/breathable laminants, and functional storage solutions resulting in the most functional, comfortable, and tough assortment of purpose built product we could imagine. By focusing on the specific needs and real-life situations the rider may face on the trail, we are able to create outstanding product that is everything you need and nothing you don’t.

For more information on the new Answer OPS (Offroad Performance Series), contact Scott Sagud at scott.sagud@maggroup.com

For more information on Answer Racing Editorial and or general Marketing opportunities, contact Randy Valade at rvalade@answerracing.com

For more information on getting rad on dirt and dual sport bikes, contact Keith Culver or Luke Takahashi at founders@wlfenduro.com

For more information on the builds, contact Evan Scott at evan@ironcobras.com

The post Answer Racing: Dirt. Don’t. Hurt. appeared first on Dirt Bikes.

Begin Press Release:

CORONA, CA – February 12, 2018 – Since the beginning, Pro Circuit has built a reputation for offering customers only the finest performance parts available. That reputation continues with our new High-Compression Piston Kit for the 2018 YZ450F. Manufactured by JE Pistons to our exact specifications, Pro Circuit pistons are forged from high-quality aerospace aluminum alloy using advanced CNC-machined technologies. The result is a significant gain in low-end torque and high-RPM performance. Pro Circuit’s High-Compression Piston Kit for the 2018 YZ450F is designed for superior performance in either stock or modified engines and is a must-have engine component for serious racers.

Pro Circuit. We Race.

2018 YZ450F Piston Image

Please visit www.procircuit.com for information on Pro Circuit products.

Connect with Us:
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Liability:

All products manufactured and/or distributed by Pro Circuit Products, Inc. are offered and designed for use with standard machines. Pro Circuit Products, Inc. makes no claims as to the products effectiveness on modified machines. Pro Circuit Products, Inc. is the sole determiner of abuse, misuse, installation errors and modifications. We assume no liability for any errors in listings, specifications, part numbers, prices or model applications. Pro Circuit Products, Inc. reserves the right to change specifications, product descriptions, product quality, pricing and model applications at any time without prior oral or written notice and without further obligation.

Adding new components to your motorcycle (especially to the engine, suspension or braking system) may radically alter the acceleration, deceleration, handling and braking characteristics of your motorcycle. Ensure that all parts are installed and properly torqued per the instructions supplied with the part or to the motorcycle manufacturer’s original specifications. Test the motorcycle with the new part(s) on level ground, at low speed, without any other vehicles or obstacles nearby, to ensure that it is working properly. Periodically recheck, adjust or replace the parts as may be necessary depending upon the terrain, use, mileage and rider input. Consult the instructions supplied with the part, or the motorcycle manufacturer’s original specifications for further details. The failure to properly install, maintain, or familiarize yourself with the new part’s use, and proper operation, may result in damage to the motorcycle, and/or a loss of control, resulting in serious injury or death. Buyers assume all risk for any and all damage caused to themselves, a third party and/or property by virtue of failure of these products. By installing and/or using a Pro Circuit Products, Inc. product, you hereby accept and understand these stated terms and conditions.

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