2026 Yamaha YZ450F Specs & Review

The 2026 Yamaha YZ450F is a race-bred motocross machine for riders who want sharp power delivery, precise chassis feedback, and modern electronics in a proven 450 platform. If you’re hunting for 2026 Yamaha YZ450F specs and a grounded Yamaha YZ450F review, this breakdown focuses on what matters at the track and on challenging practice days.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Displacement: 450 cm³
• Engine type: 450cc liquid-cooled DOHC 4-stroke; 4 titanium valves
• Power (rear-wheel dyno): 53.5 hp (Dirt Rider test)
• Torque (rear-wheel dyno): 32.8 lb-ft / 44.5 N·m (Dirt Rider test)
• Wet weight: 243 lb / 110 kg
• Seat height: 38.0 in / 965 mm

Engine & Performance

The heart of the YZ450F is a single-cylinder 450 cm³ mill with a 97.0 mm x 60.8 mm bore and stroke and a 13.0:1 compression ratio. Feeding it is a Mikuni 44 mm fuel injection system, and the power hits the rear wheel through a constant-mesh 5-speed transmission and chain final drive. On the dyno, you’re looking at 53.5 hp and 32.8 lb-ft (44.5 N·m) at the wheel (Dirt Rider test), which translates to a punchy mid-range and strong over-rev that keeps you accelerating between jumps and through sand whoops.

The new-for-2026 hydraulic clutch offers a lighter, more consistent lever feel during long motos. Launch control and 3-level selectable traction control—both accessible via the Yamaha Power Tuner app—give you extra tools to tailor starts and grip to the track surface. An ECU lock (anti-theft) via the app is also available (region availability may vary), a handy touch for those who stash bikes at the track or in shared garages.

In real riding, the numbers point to confident holeshots and sustained pace: low-end torque makes it manageable out of ruts and tight corners, while the top-end pull helps clear bigger jumps with headroom. The 5-speed box keeps ratios tight for MX use, and the electronics add welcome consistency as conditions change throughout the day.

Handling, Comfort & Yamaha YZ450F Seat Height

The Yamaha YZ450F seat height is a tall 38.0 in (965 mm), typical for the 450 motocross class. Taller riders will appreciate the room to move forward in ruts or hang off the back across braking bumps. Shorter riders may find the height challenging at low speeds, but the slim chassis feel helps with weighting pegs and controlling body position.

Geometry reads focused but stable: 27.5° rake, 4.8 in (122 mm) trail, and a 58.1 in (1476 mm) wheelbase. Ground clearance is a generous 13.6 in (345 mm), which combines with the suspension to shrug off deep ruts and harsh landings. KYB handles the suspenders with a spring-type fork offering speed-sensitive damping and 12.2 in of travel, paired with a fully adjustable KYB single shock delivering 11.6 in of travel. Out of the box, this setup is known for support on jump faces and predictable hold-up under braking.

The Yamaha YZ450F weight comes in at a claimed 243 lb (110 kg) wet, which helps the bike change direction quickly without feeling twitchy. Dunlop Geomax MX33 tires—80/100-21 front and 120/80-19 rear—provide familiar grip on a wide range of intermediate terrain. Overall ergonomics are race-first: purposeful and mobile rather than plush, with dimensions of 85.6 in x 32.5 in x 50.2 in giving you room to shift body weight wherever the line demands.

Equipment & Features

• Brakes: Hydraulic discs, 270 mm front and 240 mm rear for strong, fade-resistant stops.
• Electronics: 3-level selectable traction control, tunable launch control, and ECU lock via Yamaha Power Tuner app (region availability may vary).
• Clutch: Hydraulic, standard for 2026.
• Suspension: KYB fork (12.2 in travel) and KYB shock (11.6 in travel), both fully adjustable.
• Fuel system: Mikuni fuel injection, 44 mm.
• Fuel capacity: 1.6 gal / 6.1 L.
• Warranty: 30 Day (Limited Factory Warranty).
• MSRP (US, base): $10,299.

Who Is the 2026 Yamaha YZ450F For?

This bike is built for intermediate to expert motocross riders who want a competitive 450 with strong chassis support and usable electronics. If you’re racing or hitting the track most weekends, the power, suspension travel, and geometry align with that mission. For newer riders, the tall seat and robust output can be a lot, though the traction and launch aids offer some learning headroom.

It’s not aimed at daily commuting; its 1.6 gal (6.1 L) tank and race tuning are best for short, intense sessions rather than long road miles. If your calendar says gate drops, practice days, and prep time, the YZ450F fits.

Torquepedia Verdict

As a package, the 2026 Yamaha YZ450F nails the fundamentals—torque-rich power, supportive KYB suspension, and predictable handling—while adding modern touches like a hydraulic clutch and app-enabled traction/launch control. The dyno-verified 53.5 hp and 32.8 lb-ft (Dirt Rider test) give it the punch you expect from a premier-class MX bike.

Downsides? The 38.0 in seat height and 243 lb wet weight won’t flatter very short inseams, and the 1.6 gal fuel tank underscores its track-first intent. But judged strictly by 2026 Yamaha YZ450F specs and on-track priorities, it’s a compelling, fully equipped contender in the 450 class.

FAQ

• Is the 2026 Yamaha YZ450F good for beginners?
  Riders new to dirt bikes may find the 38.0 in seat height and strong 450 power challenging. The 3-level traction control and hydraulic clutch help, but it’s best suited to riders with some off-road experience.

• What is the seat height of the 2026 Yamaha YZ450F?
  The seat height is 38.0 in / 965 mm.

• How heavy is the 2026 Yamaha YZ450F?
  Wet weight (claimed) is 243 lb / 110 kg.

• Does the 2026 YZ450F have traction control and launch control?
  Yes. It features 3-level selectable traction control and launch control, both tunable via the Yamaha Power Tuner app.

• What is the price of the 2026 Yamaha YZ450F?
  MSRP (US, base) is $10,299.