VOLUME ISSUE AUGUST , P63
L
ast year, Yamaha updated its
2023 YZ125X and YZ250X
cross-country models, and for
2024, Yamaha shifted its attention
to the YZ450FX. As a result, the
YZ450FX is essentially an all-new
motorcycle.
Changes for the new YZ450FX
start with a completely redesigned
four-stroke engine that Yamaha
says is lighter, more compact, higher
revving and more powerful across
the entire rev range. Updates include
new exhaust and intake port shapes,
larger diameter titanium intake
valves, new forged aluminum pis
-
ton, new cylinder body, crankshaft
and balancer assembly, 500 rpm
higher rev limit and a switch from
wet sump to dry sump lubrication.
An all-new clutch design replaces
the coil springs of the previous
model with a new disc spring and
integrates the primary gear and
basket into a single steel unit. The
result Yamaha claims is a more
compact, lightweight and durable
assembly with smooth engagement
and excellent feel. There's also a
new wide-ratio transmission featur
-
ing a tri-shaft layout that Yamaha
says "is lighter and more compact,
with gear ratios optimized for
cross-country conditions."
The YZ450FX also gets a new
frame and ergonomics with a slim
-
mer, flatter, more compact body,
including a narrower fuel tank and
front shrouds, and a flatter (front
to rear) and more rounded (side
to side) seat, making it easier for
the rider to move and shift weight.
The rider triangle has increased
legroom between the seat and
footpegs, and revised handle
-
bar position "for a more
natural stand-up posture."
The suspension has
been updated with a
hand-controlled compres-
sion clicker for the forks
and changes to the rear
suspension result in a
10mm lower seat height.
The 2024 YZ450FX sells
for $10,199 and will be
available in October.
CN
The Yamaha YZ450FX cross-country
is significantly updated for 2024.
