stability that we liked about the earlier mod-
els from '22 and earlier. The 2026 model now
feels more glued to
the ground and provides
the rider with more trust when leaning into a
corner. This is the best version yet from the
new-gen Yamaha, combining the nimble agil-
ity of the '23+ with the straight-line stability
of
the '22. Pair this with smoother throttle
response, and you get a bike that feels calm,
cool and confident anywhere on the track.
The suspension department is always one
of Yamaha's strongest attributes, and this year
is no different. The KYB SSS fork is well-liked
and helps boost the YZ's on-track comfort.
Small-bump compliance is top-notch, and it
resists bottoming even on the biggest hits.
My preferred suspension setting was four
clicks softer on the compression (thank
you, tool-less adjusters) and two in on the
rebound. This helped free up the function of
the fork, allowing it to work more effectively
with increased weight on the front wheel.
We also went one click in on the rear shock's
compression, along with one-quarter turn out
on high speed. The suspension changes were
recommended by Yamaha's test rider, Travis
Preston, which helped the bike stay planted
through the bumps and gave it a more pre
-
dictable feeling throughout the track.
Yamaha's
new hydraulic clutch is a point of
contention, but we have to admit that it pro-
With new sound
restrictions
approaching and
a new muffler,
exhaust and airbox,
you can now
sneak up behind
your competitors
without being
heard.
P96
RIDE REVIEW I 2026 YAMAHA YZ450F
