FIRST LOOK: ALL NEW 2021 YAMAHA WR450F
Yamaha Motor Australia have released the details on their flagship 2021 Enduro model - the WR405F
Yamaha’s WR450F continues to dominate the retail charts Down Under where it has earned the title of Australia’s favourite motorcycle since its release in 1998.
Development input by a range of Aussie enduro riders over the years is one reason the WR450F continues to outsell its competition. Continual updates based on the equally successful YZ450F MX weapon is another. And for 2021, the all new WR450F is fully reworked with technology that has been forged in the intense heat of MX competition.
More power and sharper handling are the result. To create an enduro bike with the flexibility to tackle tough trails and win races, the YZ platform has been extensively tested and tuned with enduro specific settings.
Using the 2020 model YZ450F as a starting point, our experienced development team - including Kiwi race team manager and Yamaha legend Josh Coppins - came up with an enduro weapon that turns, stops and goes better than ever before. The 2021 WR450F produces bulk power but transmits that power to the ground in a more controllable manner with additional traction at both wheels.
Sporting a new aluminium bilateral beam frame, the WR450F feels lighter, is easier to turn in tight situations and has improved stability both in the bumps and in the air. Progressive, smooth KYB suspension continues to absorb big impacts and the braking performance is now improved.
2021 WR450F is designed to appeal to those born to ride – from professional enduro riders to super capable trail riders. The new model comes in the new Team Yamaha Blue colour scheme that echoes its YZ and FX cousins in the VictorYZone.
2021 WR450F design goals
• Lighter balance with added manoeuvrability
• Easier cornering in tight situations
• Improved front end traction – initial turn-in and line maintenance mid-corner
• Stronger, more progressive braking
• Added stability both in bumps and in the air
• Progressive, smooth suspension action with ability to absorb big impacts
• Easier to control, progressive power
• Strong and longer pulling power while maintaining traction
2021 WR450F features and benefits
• New YZ450F based, forward-positioned, straight intake, rearward-inclined cylinder and rear exhaust port engine format for powerful output
• Smartphone tuning
• Bar-mounted engine map switch
• Lightweight electric starter motor
• Tool-free airbox access
• Tougher five speed gearbox with model-specific clutch featuring heat-resistant friction plates
• New controlled fill aluminium bilateral beam frame tuned for enduro
• Industry leading KYB speed sensitive forks and shock absorber tuned for enduro
• Lighter, more powerful brakes
• New compact instrument display with fuel consumption indicator
• New lighter footpegs
• Lighter and stronger front axle shaft, top triple clamp, handlebar clamps – from YZ450F
• Large plastic engine guard
• Large capacity radiator and cooling fan
• 18 in rear wheel designed for excellent performance in enduro riding and wide tyre choice
• Four-position adjustable handlebars
• Sealed chain
• 7.9-litre plastic fuel tank and compact fuel pump
• Forged aluminium kickstand sits close to the bike
• Meets global emissions standards
Those who live in Australia are able to enjoy a special edition Aussie take on the countries most popular Enduro bike, featuring the Kangaro and some aftermarket add ons sure to make this thing sing even louder, while no doubt costing a few more pingers in the process.
2021 WR50F Specifications
Engine type: 450cc Liquid cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve
Bore x stroke: 97.0 × 60.8
Compression ratio: 13.0:1
Fuel delivery: Fuel Injection
Starter system: Electric
Transmission system: Constant mesh 5-speed
Frame: Aluminium bilateral beam
Front suspension: Telescopic fork
Rear suspension: Adjustable link-type
Front brake: Hydraulic single disc - 270 mm
Rear brake: Hydraulic single disc - 245 mm
Front tyre: 90/90-21 Metzeler Six Days Extreme
Rear tyre: 130/90-18 Metzeler Six Days Extreme
Overall length: 2175 mm
Overall width: 825 mm
Overall height: 1270 mm
Seat height: 955 mm
Wheel base: 1480 mm
Ground Clearance: 320 mm
Wet weight (including full oil and fuel tank): 119 kg
Fuel tank capacity: 7.9L
Price and availability for the NZ market yet to be announced.
You might also like
