2018 YAMAHA YZ450F
FIRST TEST
P100
REDO
D
irt bike consumers should
unite and rejoice that the
manufacturers are still mak-
ing advancements in the sport we
love. It isn't exactly the booming
industry it used to be and revi-
sions and changes are expensive
and, as a result, sometimes few
and far between. Yamaha, howev-
er, didn't hold back and went all-
out with its all-new 2018 YZ450F,
continuing its quest to build the
ultimate 450. The engine, chas-
sis, bodywork and even tuning
technology underwent complete
overhaul. (Click here for a detailed
look at all of the changes.)
Visually the new YZ450F stands
out instantly thanks to the blue
rims. Riders familiar with the 2017
YZ450F will see subtle differ-
ences in the styling and frame,
but well-trained eyes will notice
there is no longer a kickstarter,
because it's been replaced by a
new electric starting system. (Ap-
plause.) Unlike some bikes that
already utilize electric starting, the
starter motor is positioned behind
HIT OR MISS?
DID YAMAHA GET
IT RIGHT WITH
THE ALL-NEW
YZ450F?
STORY BY CN STAFF
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADAM BOOTH
