VOLUME 56 ISSUE 31 AUGUST 6, 2019 P99
Anyhow, compared to the outgo-
ing WR450F, the 2019 is significantly
changed. It has a stiffer frame that is
narrower (by 18mm at the knee area)
and yields a lower seat height—18mm
lower at the dip (center) of the seat and
19mm lower at the rear fender.
The WR's KYB suspension is identical
to the YZ450F's but has much lighter
springs, 5.6 N/m versus the YZ's 5.8
N/m spring in the back, and 4.6 N/m
versus the YZ's 5.0 N/m springs in the
front. The front axle is also 2mm larger
in diameter, 20mm to 22mm.
The WR's 449cc, DOHC, fuel-inject-
ed engine is all new; it's more compact
and has a new starter motor that is
positioned above the gearbox to drive
the clutch basket. The WR's old engine
wasn't originally designed to house
a starter motor, this one, however, is
designed for one. An acid, rather than
lithium, battery powers the starter
motor. Yes, acid is heavier than lithium
but more durable, especially in cold
weather. The head, camshafts, piston
and clutch have all been modified
and tuned for better power and better
engine manageability.
Fuel capacity is increased slightly.
It holds 0.56 gallons more than the
2019 YZ450F and .18 gallons more
than the 2018 WR450F.
Even the side stand has been rede-
signed. It's lighter, more compact
and has additional ground clearance.
(Left) It might be
considered a trail
bike but the 2019
WR450F has
tons of usable
power. (Right)
The WR450F
isn't the lightest
in its class.
