2021 Yamaha Range Review

Always a popular choice amongst motocross and enduro riders, Yamaha has pulled through with a number of updates to its 2020 YZ range which is spearheaded by an upgraded YZ250F.

2021 Yamaha YZ250F & YZ450F:
In 2020, the YZ450F received a bunch of engine and chassis upgrades, which the YZ250F is essentially getting for 2021. The YZ250F is already one of the strongest packages a rider can get their hands in the MX2 class, so to see it get even better is really impressive from the Japanese manufacturer. 

For 2021, it gets a new chassis with upgrades to the frame, engine mounts, top triple clamp, and front axle - all of which are designed to complement each other. The frame's rigidity balance has been further balanced, which is intended to deliver a smoother chassis movement and ultimately enhance tracking, cornering, and bump absorption.

Along with the chassis updates, Yamaha has also improved the suspension package from KYB, which has a new damping suspension setting to complement the frame.

Yamaha has become renowned for its engine performance, and that's been further improved for 2021, thanks to a brand-new cylinder head, updated exhaust camshaft profile, new intake port shape and airbox, plus an all-new muffler and upgraded ECU. That's not to mention refinements to the transmission, clutch, and water pump impeller.

These engine improvements result in stronger mid to top-end power while continuing to deliver bottom-end torque. The 2021 YZ250F also continues to come fitted with the ability switch maps on the go via the engine mapping switch, along with fine-tuning maps via the Yamaha PowerTuner app.

The YZ450F remains relatively untouched for 2021 being that it's already an impressive package, receiving a fresh graphics kit and all blue plastics as also seen on the YZ250F.

2021 Monster Energy Yamaha Racing editions:
Yamaha typically releases it's four-stroke motocross bikes in two colourways, and for 2021, they've opted to release their secondary colour option in a Monster Energy Yamaha Racing livery in both the YZ450F and YZ250F models. The colourway has a graphics package and plastics kit inspired by the factory machines in AMA Supercross and the MXGP World Championship.

2021 Yamaha two-stroke range:
The 2021 Yamaha two-stroke dirt bike range remains unchanged aside from graphics, however the ever-popular YZ125 and YZ250 come with fitted with GYTR Race Kits. The pair of bikes come with a GYTR silencer and exhaust, VForce Reed Block, 48T GYTR sprocket and GYTR Launch Master. 

The YZ85, which comes in small wheel and big wheel options, and the YZ65, are highlighted by the Yamaha Power Valve System, fully adjustable, industry-leading 36mm KYB spring forks and KYB rear shock, as well as four-way, adjustable handlebar positioning. 

2021 Yamaha cross-country range:
Yamaha's cross-country range returns for 2021, and it's headlined by an updated YZ450FX. The off-road 450 essentially gets the updates seen on the 2020 YZ450F, such an upgraded engine, frame, and brakes package. 

The YZ125X, YZ250X and YZ250FX are unchanged for 2021. Both the YZ250FX and YZ450FX come with a rec rego kit that includes a headlight to ensure they can be registered in applicable states. 

The 2021 WR range is still to be released.