The chassis is the focus of the upgrades enjoyed by the 2026 Yamaha YZ450F, though there are also several changes to the reverse-mounted DOHC powerplant. Here are the Fast Facts on what’s fresh for Yamaha’s Blu Cru flagship motocross bike.
- Yamaha Motorsports Motorcycle Product Line Manager Derek Brooks explains the 2026 YZ450F’s goals: “When developing the new 2026 YZ450F, our goal was to create an intuitive, rider-friendly character that unlocks a racer’s full potential while not upsetting the exceptional balance of power and handling performance that’s kept the YZ at the top of the class. On paper, the changes may appear subtle. However, the enhanced feeling of connection and control on the bike is huge. This new YZ is easier to ride faster for longer.”
- The 2026 Yamaha YZ450F has a new frame. The 2026 YZ450F features a redesigned frame that balances rigidity and flex through a restructured inner and outer frame with a thinner front downtube. The goal is a stable ride and sharper front-end response for superior cornering performance.
- KYB suspension returns, though there are significant changes. Complementing the frame, the KYB suspension returns with refined settings for the acclaimed Speed-Sensitive System, designed to enhance damping and minimize bump feedback for consistent control during long motos. Rear wheel travel decreases by 0.8 inches to 11.6 inches, and a hand-operated low-speed compression clicker on the shock enables quick adjustments.
- New geometry comes with the new frame and suspension. The 2026 YZ450F’s wheelbase is shortened by 0.2 inches to 58.1 inches. The rake is increased 0.6 degrees to 27.5 degrees, and a tenth of an inch is added to the trail. Ground clearance is reduced by 0.2 inches, and the 2026 YZ450F weighs three pounds more than last year, hitting the scales at 243 pounds with the 1.6-gallon fuel tank filled.
- All these changes are designed to enhance cornering in everything from tight corners to fast sweepers. Yamaha aimed to make the bike easier to lean into turns, select lines, and maintain them.
- Alongside chassis improvements, the 2026 YZ450F introduces a hydraulic clutch with a redesigned inner hub for better lubrication. These changes aim to extend clutch life and maintain consistent performance under demanding conditions.
- The engine sees a targeted update. A new intake port increases the tumble effect to improve combustion, intended to provide a smoother response. Our Yamaha insider tells us that “this aims to create a stronger connection between throttle and rear wheel, enhancing control.”
- People have complained about the sound output of the YZ450F, and that has been addressed for 2026. The intake gets a new duct, while the intake and exhaust get new resonators. Yamaha promises that the new YZ450F meets AMA and FIM noise standards.
- The new seat cover has a honeycomb texture. It features a one-way grip design that allows riders to slide forward easily while remaining secure during acceleration.
- You have probably noticed the new plastic. The front number plate is smaller, and the rear fender is more pointed. In between, the side covers are now two-piece.
- The ECU can be password-protected by the owner. This will make the 2026 Yamaha YZ450F harder to steal or ride without authorization. This happens via the Yamaha Power Tuner app.
- The price of the 2026 Yamaha YZ450F sneaks a peek above $10k for the first time. The tag on the handlebar will read $10,299, though you won’t see it at dealers until August. If you’d like the 70th Anniversary Edition with retro red-and-white plastic and graphics, have another $200 in your wallet and be prepared to wait until October to ride it.
2026 Yamaha YZ450F Specs
ENGINE
- Type: 4-stroke single
- Displacement: 449cc
- Bore x stroke: 97.0 × 60.8mm
- Compression ratio: 13.0:1
- Valvetrain: DOHC; 4 titanium valves
- Fueling: Mikuni EFI w/ 44mm throttle body
Starting: Electric - Transmission: 5-speed
- Clutch: Wet multiplate
- Final drive: Chain
CHASSIS
- Frame: Twin-spar aluminum
- Front suspension; travel: Fully adjustable KYB Speed-Sensitive System inverted fork; 12.2 inches
- Rear suspension; travel: Linkage-assisted fully adjustable KYB piggyback-reservoir shock; 11.6 inches
- Tires: Dunlop Geomax MX33
- Front tire: 80/100-21
- Rear tire: 120/80-19
- Front brake: 270mm disc w/ Nissin caliper
- Rear brake: 240mm disc
DIMENSIONS and CAPACITIES
- Wheelbase: 58.1 inches
- Rake: 27.5 degrees
- Trail: 4.8 inches
- Seat height: 38.0 inches
- Ground clearance: 13.6 inches
- Fuel capacity: 1.6 gallons
- Wet weight: 243 pounds
- Colors: Team Yamaha Blue; 70th Anniversary Edition (+$200)
2026 Yamaha YZ450F Price: from $10,299 MSRP
2026 Yamaha YZ450F Photo Gallery
