Yamaha WR450F

The 6th most popular motorcycle in Australia for 2017 is the previously covered Yamaha WR450F. I’ve updated the review (originally posted in 29 October 2017) to fit it in with this series on the ‘Most popular motorcycles in Australia’. After all I’ve said all I wanted in the original post.

The Yamaha WR450F is marketed as an enduro motorcycle that can be registered for on road use and on the LAMS list for learner riders. I believe enduro motorcycles are a a step up from those marketed as Trail motorcycles, the difference between them is that the Enduro class have lower mechanical complexity and civility but ultimately improved reliability but not longevity. Proof, the WR450F has a kick start and an electric start?

Mechanically the WR450F is related to the competition model the YZ450F so there are optional parts like the Yamaha EFI power tuner an engine tuner, off road guards and the essential performance muffler and many more available for it. The differences between the YZ450F and the WR450F are basic things required for a road motorcycle like a battery, rear view mirrors, lights, suspension tuning, the lack of performance tuning and perfomance parts amongst other changes. So the WR450F is a ‘Lite’ version of the hard core YZ450F.

The WR450F looks good tradition off road style and very much like a competition motoX model. As a result there are shortfalls if you choose it as a daily ride. Problems like the seat height which requires you to be very tall or have great balance, tall gearing, skinny tyres and hard seat is not comfort orientated, not enough power for highway trips due to the lack of decent wind deflection and mostly the tiny 7.5 litre fuel tank.

If your a rider who rides off road regularly and can only afford to maintain one motorcycle then the WR450F is great choice for a LAMS or commuter but it wouln’t be as good as the other trail and road focused motorcycles. The WR450F series and it’s predecessors have always been popular due to many choosing them for trail riding and a cheaper way to get into motocross competitions. If you can fit aka very long legs and like the WR’s design there is no reason you should not consider buying one.

Yamaha WR450F Key Specifications (2018)
Engine: 1 cylinder 4-stroke 4 valve DOHC (EFI)
Capacity: 449cc
Power/Torque: 42 Kw @ 9000RPM 49 Nm @ 7000RPM
Gearbox: 5 speed
Kerb Weight: 125Kg Approx
Performance: 0-100kph NA seconds Approx
Max Speed NA Kph Approx
Fuel Economy: 7.5 litre fuel tank
Approx 4 litres per 100km
Seat height: 965mm
Dimensions: L2165 x W825 x H1280
Recommended Retail Price: $13,200 (2018)