2018 YAMAHA YZ65
FIRST TEST
P86
model before anyone else while
Yamaha's highly capable staff
tends to you like a factory rider.
It usually takes some effort to
get more than "it's awesome!"
or "it's superfast!" from young
test riders, but luckily for me the
Townsend boys are more thoughtful about
their answers than most kiddos their age.
That being said, I was sure not to com-
pare their KTM 65 SX and Husqvarna TC
65 models they race on a regular basis,
as this is a singular test ride and not a comparo.
Stay tuned for that comparison sooner than later.
I also asked pointed questions about each aspect
of the bike. Even trying to temper the boy's excite-
ment about the event, it was crystal clear they
were impressed with the bike.
BROAD POWER
Powering the YZ65 is a nearly
square bore and stroke (43.5 x
43.6mm) liquid-cooled two-
stroke engine designed to pro-
duce a broad spread of power
and torque. Yamaha engineers
created an engine that has the power
needed for the highest levels of racing
while being less tiring with less shifting. A
mechanically operated YPVS guillotine-type
power valve begins to open at 8300 rpm
and is fully open at 8900 for increased top-end
power while allowing for more torque down low
while closed. A large-volume airbox feeds plenty of
air through a Keihin 28mm carburetor and stuffer
reed block into the crankcase that features an opti-
mized shape for maximum charge to the cylinder.
Not only is the YZ65 fast,
it's also a looker.
Adjustable
handlebar mounts
are handy for
growing kids.
