2026 Yamaha YZ85 Specs & Review

Yamaha’s YZ85 is a purpose-built motocross machine for aspiring racers and fast-growing riders who are ready to sharpen their skills on real tracks. The 2026 Yamaha YZ85 specs show a lightweight platform, quality suspension, and a responsive 2‑stroke engine aimed squarely at progression. This Yamaha YZ85 review breaks down what you need to know before you line up on the gate.

Key Specs at a Glance

• Engine type: 85cc liquid-cooled 2-stroke; reed-valve inducted
• Displacement: 85 cc
• Power: Not listed
• Torque: Not listed
• Transmission: 6-speed; multiplate wet clutch
• Wet weight: 161 lb / 73 kg
• Yamaha YZ85 seat height: 33.1 in (841 mm)
• Fuel capacity: 1.3 gal / 4.9 L
• Bore x stroke: 47.5 mm x 47.8 mm
• Compression ratio: 8.2~9.6:1
• Final drive: Chain

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the YZ85 is a liquid-cooled, single-cylinder 2‑stroke with reed-valve induction and a Hitachi Astemo Keihin PWK28 carburetor. The oversquare-ish dimensions (47.5 mm bore x 47.8 mm stroke) and listed compression ratio of 8.2~9.6:1 support the classic 85cc formula: crisp throttle response and a lively mid-to-top pull when you keep it in the right gear. While official power and torque figures are not listed here, the combination of a responsive carb, reed-valve intake, and a 6-speed transmission makes it easy to stay in the meat of the powerband.

On the track, that means quick drive out of corners and the ability to attack jumps when you’re on the pipe. The 6-speed; multiplate wet clutch setup gives ample ratio choice for tight, technical sections or faster outdoor layouts. With a wet weight of 161 lb / 73 kg and a compact 1.3 gal / 4.9 L fuel capacity, the YZ85 is tuned for motos and practice sessions rather than long-range duties—very much in line with its motocross focus.

Handling, Comfort & Yamaha YZ85 Seat Height

Chassis numbers are confidence-inspiring for riders transitioning into the 85 class. A 49.4 in / 1255 mm wheelbase, 26.3° rake, and 3.5 in trail strike a balance between stability and flickability, helping the YZ85 carve ruts precisely without feeling nervous. Ground clearance stands at 12.6 in / 320 mm, which is welcome when tracks get deeply rutted or whooped-out.

The Yamaha YZ85 seat height is 33.1 in (841 mm), giving growing riders room to move around the cockpit and shift body position over jumps and through braking bumps. If you’re on the shorter side, expect to be on the balls of your feet; taller teens will appreciate the roominess. The overall dimensions—71.7 in x 29.9 in x 44.7 in (1821 x 759 x 1135 mm)—keep the bike slim and easy to maneuver, and the Yamaha YZ85 weight of 161 lb / 73 kg makes low-speed paddling and quick direction changes much less intimidating.

Tire fitment is track-ready: 70/100-17 Dunlop Geomax MX3SF up front and 90/100-14 Dunlop Geomax MX3S at the rear, a proven pairing for typical motocross surfaces in this class.

Equipment & Features

Suspension hardware is a standout at this level. Up front, a KYB inverted fork is fully adjustable with 10.8 in of travel, letting riders tailor feel as skills improve or track conditions change. Out back, a KYB single shock is also fully adjustable and delivers 11.1 in of travel for composed landings and traction.

Braking is handled by hydraulic discs: 220 mm at the front and 190 mm at the rear—strong, predictable stoppers for repeated hard braking zones. Fueling comes via a Hitachi Astemo Keihin PWK28 carburetor, final drive is chain, and the transmission is a 6-speed unit with a multiplate wet clutch. Fuel capacity is 1.3 gal / 4.9 L. US pricing lists an MSRP of $5,099 with a $320 destination charge, and there’s a 30 Day (Limited Factory Warranty).

Who Is the 2026 Yamaha YZ85 For?

This bike is squarely aimed at youth and smaller riders focused on motocross—those stepping up from mini classes or honing fundamentals before moving to bigger-displacement machines. Beginners under coaching will appreciate the low overall mass and quality suspension, while early intermediates can dial in the fully adjustable KYB units as pace increases. It’s a motocross tool first and foremost, ideal for motos, practice days, and private track sessions rather than commuting.

Torquepedia Verdict

The 2026 Yamaha YZ85 brings together a responsive 85cc 2‑stroke, fully adjustable KYB suspension, and race-focused geometry in a package that weighs just 161 lb / 73 kg. The result is a sharp, confidence-building platform that rewards proper gear selection and body positioning—exactly what riders need to progress.

On the downside, it’s not built for road use or long stints between fuel stops, and official power/torque figures aren’t listed here if you’re hunting for benchmarks. But judged as a motocross bike, the spec sheet is spot-on: quality components, sensible geometry, and the right wheel and tire sizes for this class. If you’re shopping the 85cc category, the YZ85 deserves a close look.

FAQ

• Is the 2026 Yamaha YZ85 good for beginners?

  • Yes—especially for youth or smaller riders getting into motocross. The 161 lb / 73 kg wet weight, fully adjustable KYB suspension, and 6-speed gearbox make it approachable with proper guidance.

• What is the seat height of the 2026 Yamaha YZ85?

  • The Yamaha YZ85 seat height is 33.1 in (841 mm).

• How heavy is the 2026 Yamaha YZ85?

  • The Yamaha YZ85 weight is 161 lb / 73 kg (wet).

• What brakes does the YZ85 use?

  • Hydraulic discs: 220 mm front and 190 mm rear.

• What is the fuel capacity?

  • 1.3 gal / 4.9 L.