VOL. 50 ISSUE 49 DECEMBER 10, 2013
>> QUICK REVIEW
For 2014, the Yamaha YZ450F got its
first major overall since 2010, the year
it debuted its reversed and rearwardslanted cylinder design and EFI. Unfortunately, because of herky-jerky throttling, vague front-end cornering, wide
profile, and a noisy airbox that wasn't
designed well for easy filter maintenance, the highly anticipated machine
got mixed reviews. Basically, either you
liked it or didn't.
Our test riders, however, have generally liked the Yamaha YZ450F because
of its strong motor, very good suspension and outstanding forks. With some
fiddling here and there, they were able
to overlook some of the YZ's quirks.
For 2014, the YZ450F got the whole
toolbox thrown at it. For the most part,
it has a new motor, an all-new airbox
design, a new fuel tank, a modified
frame, and a narrower profile.
The result? A much-improved motorcycle.
The new engine has more power
and torque. More importantly, it has a
smoother and more refined powerband
that makes it easier to ride. Add improved throttling and you have a damn
good motor.
P49
Suspension is still really, really good,
especially the fork. We're not at all upset that Yamaha chose to stick with its
proven SSS fork over the trendy air
forks that require far more attention
and don't necessarily work a whole lot
– if at all - better.
Handling is still solid but cornering
is still iffy, despite being improved. Yamaha repositioned the frame's headpipe and now the front end doesn't
push quite as noticeably as before and
it cuts in better mid-corner, but the YZ
still lacks that "planted" and secure feel
while charging hard through the turns.
One of the reasons the YZ has improved a bit when it comes to corning
is its significantly narrower radiator/
airbox area. This makes the bike more
comfortable and a little easier to throw
around and easier to move around on.
The new hidden gas cap helps out as
well. Unfortunately, the Yamaha still
feels wide at the frame's midsection.
The airbox is much improved. Air intake noise has been reduced and filter
access is much easier and quicker.
Overall, the 2014 Yamaha YZ450F is
an improved machine. It's more comfortable, the motor is more user-friendly, and it takes less effort getting the
bike in and out of the turns.
