2024 Yamaha WR450F Launch
Yamaha Australia invited us to the launch of the all-new WR450F, so we took a trip down to Josh Green's place in Stroud NSW for the official launch. The 2024 WRF is based on the successful YZ450F motocross platform, the new WR is slimmer, lighter, and has a lower centre of gravity than previous models. The weather was not on our side, but this made for some rigorous testing of the new machine's capabilities. We took full advantage of the engine mapping and its adjustability to get the most out of the bike in the wet and sloppy conditions. Is this bike the full package upgrade that Yamaha has promised?
2024 WR450F First Ride and Thoughts:
What's New:
Improved Ergonomics
The bike is slimmer, and lighter, with adjustments made to the rider triangle the 24' WR450F is an all-round more comfortable bike to ride
Braking
Oversized 270mm front and 240mm rear brake discs, with Nissin calipers.
Engine Upgrades
Complete engine overhaul to make it lighter and more compact, with performance upgrades to improve power delivery across the full rev range
Toolless Fork Adjustment
New compression clickers that are hand-operated, easily adjustable when you're out on the track or trail.
New Frame
Frame adjustments result in improved handling, balancing straight-line stability and cornering performance, this includes specifically designed engine mounts for the WR450F package, and a lower centre of gravity
Engine Mapping
Use the Yamaha Power Tuner app to preload engine maps and change on the fly to suit riding conditions.
Tri-shaft Transmission
All new transmission layout makes for smoother shifting and power delivery that is optimised for enduro.