2025 Yamaha YZ450F Review

2025 Yamaha YZ450F
This is the most powerful engine ever used in the YZ450F. Featuring a special piston, slanted cylinder and dry sump lubrication system, this lightweight and compact 450cc 4-stroke reverse-head engine delivers strong and linear power that gives you plenty of easy-to-control performance at all engine speeds.
ReviewKey FeaturesFeatures & BenefitsSpecifications

2025 Yamaha YZ450F 2025 Yamaha YZ450F 2025 Yamaha YZ450F

2025 Yamaha YZ450F: LIGHTER, SLIMMER, SHARPER, FASTER.

Introducing the new 2025 Yamaha YZ450F…

Yamaha took the championship winning YZ450F and made it even better—more powerful, lighter, slimmer, with enhanced overall stability and more agility than ever! Because the best don’t rest.

Here to continue its reign, the AMA pro Motocross & Supercross champ is back to be even better – lighter, slimmer, and more powerful. With best-in-class agility and suspension performance, the 2025 YZ450F packs the ultimate racer experience for all with offroad four-stroke technology wrapped in iconic YZ heritage.

Designed to win.

Every rider is different. When Yamaha built the latest generation YZ450F it was designed so that you can customize its engine and chassis performance to suit di erent riding conditions. All this is made possible by the Power Tuner app that can transform your bike’s performance without you even opening your toolbox. And with its linear power delivery, compact bodywork and MXGP-derived chassis geometry giving you ultimate control, the YZ450F has been designed to bring out your best performance out on the track.

A ‘Simple Tuning’ function makes it easy to adjust the engine character – and a lap timer function means that you can see which settings achieve the best results. And you can also adjust the behaviour of the traction control and launch control systems.

A new rear suspension linkage improves stability in a wide variety of riding circumstances, and when combined with the revised factory suspension settings, provides an improved feeling in traction on corner exit, lending to a more planted feeling when taking on jumps. To match the changes at the rear, the front suspension settings have also been updated. Combined with the super-compact seamless bodywork and at seat, the YZ450F offers ultimate rider mobility and maximum control when accelerating, braking and cornering.

This is the lightest, slimmest, sharpest and fastest 450cc motocross bike ever built by Yamaha. Its winning potential in MXGP and SX show just how good this bike is. And whatever level you race, the YZ450F has the engine, chassis and electronics that are ready to bring out your best performance.
The unique reverse-head engine is a perfect example of how Yamaha technology can make you a better rider. Its strong and linear power gives you the absolute control required to achieve faster lap times. And the easy-to use Power Tuner app enables you to make quick trackside adjustments to the engine character and traction control settings to match the conditions.

Its lightweight aluminum frame and best-in-class KYB suspension systems deliver the cornering precision and straight-line stability you need to stay ahead – and the compact seamless bodywork combined with idealized ergonomics give you ultimate rider mobility for maximum control when accelerating, braking and cornering.

 

 

 

2025 Yamaha YZ450F Totalmotorcycle.com Key Features

Light, slim and powerful engine

This is the most powerful engine ever used in the YZ450F. Featuring a special piston, slanted cylinder and dry sump lubrication system, this lightweight and compact 450cc 4-stroke reverse-head engine delivers strong and linear power that gives you plenty of easy-to-control performance at all engine speeds.

High-capacity air intake

A key feature on the YZ450F is its front facing intake that gives you a real competitive advantage. For winning performance the intake port is designed to give a straight path to the cylinder head. Together with large 39mm titanium inlet valves, this high-efficiency intake enables the engine to rev higher for increased performance.

Disc spring clutch with enhanced cooling efficiency

To handle the high levels of power the YZ450F is equipped with a durable and compact one-piece steel clutch that minimizes engine weight and keeps engine width to a minimum. Disc springs are used instead of conventional coil springs, giving accurate feel and a light pull at the lever.

Lightweight balancer mechanism

For smooth power delivery and minimized vibration at all engine speeds the YZ450F benefits from a balancer mechanism. Featuring a single balancer weight and hollow shaft, this compact design helps to make the latest generation one of the lightest in its class.

Aluminium bilateral beam frame

The YZ450F’s aluminium bilateral beam is designed to handle the high performance of the latest generation 450cc reverse-head engine. The rigidity of the tank rails is optimized to give a controlled amount of flex for effective shock absorption – and the stiff down tube and cross tube ensure high levels of stability and precise cornering.

Seamless ergonomic bodywork

The lightweight fenders, sidepanels and airbox cover blend seamlessly, and the narrow shrouds together with the bike’s slim waist enable rapid body weight shifting for more effective handling performance. And for optimum controllability the YZ450F features a flat upper surface running from the rear of the seat through to front of the airbox.

Best-in-class KYB suspension with revised linkage and factory settings

The industry leading KYB speed sensitive front forks and rear shock, are equipped with model-specific suspension settings designed to give excellent bump absorption and high levels of traction, improved further by the new suspension linage for 2025. For easy suspension setting the forks feature a hand adjustable compression damping adjuster.

Adjustable traction control system

The YZ450F comes fitted with a traction control system with three levels of intervention as well as an OFF function.

Launch control system

For fast starts the YZ450F’s launch control system features a ‘Rev clip’ function as well as an ‘Ignition retard’ function. “Rev clip’ can be set to limit engine speed at any setting between 6.000rpm and 11.000rpm in 500rpm increments, allowing you to give your bike full throttle when the gate drops – and concentrate fully on getting the holeshot.

Rear duct airflow

Engine performance is optimized and body width is kept to a minimum by the rear duct airflow that channels fresh air through the space between the fuel tank, frame, seat and sidepanels. When it reaches the lightweight airbox the dirty air is pre-cleaned by a vortex that throws particles to the side, reducing air cleaner clogging and making routine maintenance easier.

Ergonomic rider triangle

As well as being the fastest, lightest and most powerful YZ450F ever, the latest bike is also designed to fit riders of varying sizes and physiques. The relationship between the flat seat, footrest position and handlebar mounting location creates a rider triangle that ensures provides idealized ergonomics with easy rider mobility.

 

 

 

 

 

2025 Yamaha YZ450F Totalmotorcycle.com Features and Benefits

 

NEW FOR 2025

Revised Suspension Components & Settings

A revised rear suspension linkage and updated shock settings enhance stability and traction feel in a wide variety of riding situations. To match the rear linkage revision, front suspension settings have also been updated including incorporating delta-shaped piston shims providing calmer front-end behavior and improved rider comfort.

Revised Front Engine Mounts

To match the new suspension components and settings, the front engine mounts have been revised improving chassis compliance and enhancing handling stability.

New Clutch Design

An updated clutch design increases the number of holes feeding oil to the clutch plates from 6 to 18, improving cooling efficiency for excellent reliability even under hard, continuous use.

New Handlebar Switchbox Design

A new handlebar switchbox now incorporates an updated raised rib design to help the rider avoid pressing the wrong button while wearing gloves.

New Foot Peg Bracket Design

The new, lighter aluminum foot peg bracket has a revised shape to enhance rider ergonomics.

 

TOP FEATURES

The Ultimate Open Class YZ

The ultimate 450 raises the bar even higher. Building on its best-in-class performance, the 2025 YZ450F boasts exceptional power and sharp handling in a compact, lightweight package that makes fast riders even faster.

Powerful 450cc Four-Stroke Engine

Featuring a reversed cylinder head layout, forged aluminum piston, 39 mm titanium valves, lightened crank assembly and dry sump lubrication, the 2025 YZ450F’s advanced DOHC four-stroke engine is light, compact and world renowned for its incredibly broad pulling power across the entire rev range.

Cutting-Edge Yamaha Power Tuner App

Like having factory team support in your pocket, Yamaha’s groundbreaking Power Tuner App allows owners to adjust air/fuel mixture and ignition timing 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. Features include an intuitive “Simple Tuning” slide bar for quick engine mapping adjustments, Traction and Launch Control tuning, lap timer, along with helpful engine and suspension tuning guides. Best of all, it’s free-of-charge.

Adjustable Traction Control & Launch Control

The Traction Control System communicates wheel slip to the ECU, tuning the engine to maintain ideal rear wheel traction. Three levels can be selected: HIGH, LOW or OFF. The Launch Control System continues to implement traction control and features an rpm limiting setting, which can be adjusted in 500 rpm increments between 6,000 rpm and 11,000 rpm. Both systems are controlled through the Yamaha Power Tuner App.

Advanced Aluminum Bilateral Beam Frame

The precisely tuned aluminum bilateral beam frame provides just the right amount of strength and flex for the perfect balance of stability and cornering performance. The result is a better handling machine with lighter feel, more agility and increased traction allowing the rider to enter corners with greater confidence and more line choices.

Class-Leading Suspension

The YZ450F’s high-spec fully adjustable Speed Sensitive System KYB® coil spring-type fork is recognized as the gold standard in the 450 class, providing exceptional feel and bump absorption. Front fork piston now incorporates delta-shaped slow speed shims for improved fluid flow, providing calmer front-end behavior and improved comfort. Matching changes to the front, the KYB® shock features revised settings and an updated rear suspension linkage for enhanced stability and traction feel in a wide variety of riding situations.

High Performance Braking System

A large 270mm front brake rotor is coupled with a Nissin caliper to provide excellent braking performance. Out back, rear brake feel is improved by reducing the rigidity of the brake hose providing a wider range of control at the pedal.

Slim, Compact Body & Exceptional Ergonomics

The 2025 YZ450F’s slim, flat, compact body eases rider movement for improved control, including seamless, rounded features from the new single-texture seat cover design to the narrow fuel tank and front shroud. The rider triangle is also optimized for increased legroom between the seat and foot pegs, with a carefully considered handlebar position for a more natural posture and enhanced rider comfort.

 

ENGINE

Powerful 450cc Four-Stroke Engine

Featuring a reversed cylinder head layout, forged aluminum piston, 39 mm titanium valves, lightened crank assembly and dry sump lubrication, the 2025 YZ450F’s advanced DOHC four-stroke engine is light, compact and world renowned for its incredibly broad pulling power across the entire rev range.

Industry-Leading Yamaha Power Tuner App

The free-of-charge Yamaha Power Tuner App brings the power of the GYTR® Power Tuner to your iOS® or Android® device. Using wireless connectivity to talk to the bike’s onboard CAN-bus network, the app allows owners to adjust air/fuel mixture and ignition timing 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 app has been designed to be user-friendly with intuitive features including a “Simple Tuning” slide bar for engine mapping, Traction and Launch Control tuning, lap timer, along with helpful engine and suspension tuning guides. Additionally, lightweight handlebar-mounted switchgear allows on-the-fly selection of preloaded engine maps.

Adjustable Traction & Launch Control

The Traction Control System communicates wheel slip to the ECU, tuning the engine to maintain ideal rear wheel traction. Three levels can be selected: HIGH, LOW or OFF. The Launch Control System continues to implement traction control and features an rpm limiting setting, which can be adjusted in 500 rpm increments between 6,000 rpm and 11,000 rpm. Both systems are controlled through the Yamaha Power Tuner App.

Advanced Fuel Injection

The engine breathes through a 44mm Mikuni® throttle body fed by a high-pressure electric pump to ensure optimum fuel atomization and power for a wide range of riding conditions. The ultra-compact throttle body also saves weight and improves mass-centralization.

Compact, Lightweight Clutch

An advanced disc spring clutch design integrates primary gear and basket into a single steel unit. The result is a more compact, lightweight and durable assembly which yields smoother engagement and excellent feel. Revised for 2025, the number of holes feeding oil to the clutch plates increases from 6 to 18, improving cooling efficiency for excellent reliability even under hard, continuous use.

Compact Five-Speed Transmission

Tri-shaft transmission layout vertically stacks the transmission shafts, raising the center shaft and forming a triangle between the crank, drive shaft and main shaft for a lighter, more compact transmission.

Optimized Air Intake

Optimized intake path draws air from under the side covers and seat allowing for a lighter, slimmer and more compact shroud area. This design allows the airbox cover to be lower and more narrow and radiator shrouds to be slimmer.

Electric Starter System

The YZ450F features a compact electric starter system to minimize restart delays on track and add convenience everywhere else. Powered by a high-capacity and ultra-lightweight four-cell lithium-ion battery, the system adds minimal weight.

 

CHASSIS/SUSPENSION

Precision-Tuned Aluminum Bilateral Beam Frame

Striking the perfect balance of precise cornering performance and handling stability, the YZ450F’s aluminum bilateral beam frame consists of more than 10 different aluminum components welded together. This provides the opportunity to carefully tune rigidity and flex characteristics of each component to ensure competition-level performance. The result is a better handling machine with lighter feel, improved bump absorption and increased traction, allowing the rider to enter corners with greater confidence and more line choices.

Class-Leading Suspension

The YZ450F’s high-spec fully adjustable Speed Sensitive SystemKYB® coil spring-type fork is recognized as the gold standard in the 450 class, providing exceptional feel and bump absorption. Front fork piston now incorporates delta-shaped slow speed shims for improved fluid flow, providing calmer front-end behavior and improved comfort. Matching changes to the front, the KYB® shock features revised settings and an updated rear suspension linkage for enhanced stability and traction feel in a wide variety of riding situations.

High Performance Braking System

A large 270mm front brake rotor is coupled with a Nissin caliper to provide excellent braking performance. Out back, rear brake feel is improved by reducing the rigidity of the brake hose providing a wider range of control at the pedal.

Slim, Compact Body & Exceptional Ergonomics

The 2025 YZ450F’s slim, flat, compact body eases rider movement for improved control, including seamless, rounded features from the new single-texture seat cover design to the narrow fuel tank and front shroud. The rider triangle is also optimized for increased legroom between the seat and foot pegs, with a carefully considered handlebar position for a more natural posture and enhanced rider comfort.

Strong, Lightweight Wheels

Careful computer-aided design of each wheel’s cross-sectional profile shaves weight without sacrificing durability. The YZ450F’s rear wheel comes laced with a three-cross-spoke pattern for improved impact absorption and rider feel.

Triple Clamp with Adjustable Handlebar Mounts

The top triple clamp design balances rigidity for improved steering feel while the four-position adjustable handlebar clamp is rubber-mounted for comfort, reduced handlebar vibration and easily tunable bar position.

 

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

Race-Winning Details

The YZ450F boasts a wide range of top-spec details including 1-1/8-inch aluminum tapered handlebars, compact PVC handlebar pad, lightweight throttle cable, wide foot pegs with lightweight aluminum alloy brackets, a quick-adjust clutch perch, stylish blue rims and a lightweight gold drive chain with YZ450F-specific chain guide.

*Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) shown. Does not include tax, title, prep or destination charges. Actual prices set by dealer.
**Fuel Economy is estimated.
***Wet weight includes the vehicle with all standard equipment and all fluids, including oil, coolant (as applicable) and a full tank of fuel. It does not include the weight of options or accessories. Wet weight is useful in making real-world comparisons with other models.

 

 

 

 

 

2025 Yamaha YZ450F – Totalmotorcycle.com USA Specifications/Technical Details
US MSRP Price: $9,999 USD
Canada MSRP Price: $11,999 CDN
Europe/UK MSRP Price: £ See Dealer for pricing in GBP (On The Road inc 20% Vat)

ENGINE

Engine Type 450cc liquid-cooled DOHC 4-stroke; 4 titanium valves
Bore x Stroke 97.0mm × 60.8mm
Compression Ratio 13.0:1
Fuel Delivery Mikuni® fuel injection, 44mm
Transmission 5-speed; multiplate wet clutch
Final Drive Chain
Fuel Capacity 1.6 gal

CHASSIS

Suspension/Front KYB® spring-type fork with speed sensitive damping; fully adjustable, 12.2-in travel
Suspension/Rear KYB® single shock; fully adjustable, 12.4-in travel
Brakes/Front Hydraulic disc, 270mm
Brakes/Rear Hydraulic disc, 240mm
Tires/Front 80/100-21 Dunlop® Geomax MX33F
Tires/Rear 120/80-19 Dunlop® Geomax MX33

DIMENSIONS

LxWxH 85.8 in x 32.7 in x 50.2 in
Seat Height 38.0 in
Wheelbase 58.3 in
Rake (Caster Angle) 26.9°
Trail 4.7 in
Max. Ground Clearance 13.8 in
Fuel Capacity 1.6 gal
Wet Weight*** 240 lbs

OTHER

Warranty 30 Day (Limited Factory Warranty)

*Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) shown. Does not include tax, title, prep or destination charges. Actual prices set by dealer.
**Fuel Economy is estimated.
***Wet weight includes the vehicle with all standard equipment and all fluids, including oil, coolant (as applicable) and a full tank of fuel. It does not include the weight of options or accessories. Wet weight is useful in making real-world comparisons with other models.

 

 

 

 

2025 Yamaha YZ450F – Totalmotorcycle.com Canada Specifications/Technical Details

ENGINE Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-valve (titanium), single
DISPLACEMENT 450 cc
BORE AND STROKE 97.0 x 60.8 mm
COMPRESSION RATIO 13.0:1
FUEL DELIVERY Mikuni 44mm throttle body F.I.
LUBRICATION Wet sump
IGNITION / STARTING TCI / Electric
TRANSMISSION Constant mesh, 5-speed
FINAL DRIVE Chain

 

CHASSIS

SUSPENSION (FRONT) Fully adjustable 48mm inverted fork / 310 mm (12.2 in.) wheel travel
SUSPENSION (REAR) Fully adjustable linkage-type / 317 mm (12.4 in.) wheel travel
BRAKES (FRONT) 270 mm, floating disc / twin piston caliper
BRAKES (REAR) 240 mm, disc / single piston caliper
TIRES (FRONT) 80/100-21 Dunlop® Geomax MX33F
TIRES (REAR) 120/80-19 Dunlop® Geomax MX33

 

CRITICAL DATA

LENGTH 2,180 mm (85.8 in.)
WIDTH 830 mm (32.7 in.)
HEIGHT 1,275 mm (50.2 in.)
WHEELBASE 1,480 mm (58.3 in.)
GROUND CLEARANCE 350 mm (13.8 in.)
SEAT HEIGHT 825 mm (32.5 in.)
FUEL CAPACITY 6.2 litres
WET WEIGHT 109 kg (240 lb)
COLOUR(S) Team Yamaha Blue

 

 

 

2025 Yamaha YZ450F – Totalmotorcycle.com European Specifications/Technical Details

Engine
Engine type 4-stroke;Liquid-cooled;DOHC;4-valves;Single cylinder
Displacement 450cc
Bore x stroke 97,0 × 60,8 mm
Compression ratio 13,0 : 1
Lubrication system Dry sump
Clutch Type Wet;Multiple Disc
Ignition system TCI
Starter system Electric
Transmission system Constant Mesh;5-speed
Final transmission Chain
Carburettor Fuel Injection
Chassis
Frame Semi double cradle
Front suspension system Telescopic fork
Front travel 310 mm
Rear suspension system link suspension;Swingarm
Rear Travel 295 mm
Front brake Hydraulic Single Disc, Ø270 mm
Rear brake Hydraulic Single Disc, Ø240 mm
Front tyre 80/100-21 51M Tube type
Rear tyre 120/80-19 63M Tube type
Caster Angle 26°55′
Trail 120 mm
Dimensions
Overall length 2.180 mm
Overall width 825 mm
Overall height 1.275 mm
Seat height 965 mm
Wheel base 1.480 mm
Minimum ground clearance 350 mm
Wet weight (including full oil and fuel tank) 109 kg
Fuel tank capacity 6,2 L
Oil tank capacity 1,2 L

 

 

 

Manufacturer Specifications and appearance are subject to change without prior notice on Total Motorcycle (TMW).

About Michael Le Pard 11246 Articles
"Mr. Totalmotorcycle". Owner and Founder of Total Motorcycle, the World’s Largest Motorcycle Site with over 425 million readers since 1999. Total Motorcycle is my pride and joy and being able to reach 425 million people has been incredible and I could not have done it without the support of my visitors, readers and members...thank you so much! We are all making a difference to millions of riders worldwide.