Yamaha Yz450f Review

Item: Yamaha Yz450f
Rating: 8.5
Author: Motoryk

"Brilliant but unforgiving — buy smart or get burned fast."

Experienced motocrossers who maintain bikes religiously $3,500-$7,500 used 2014-2020

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Key Specs

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Top Speed

Approximately 145–155 km/h (estimate based on dyno and track testing; not an officially published figure)

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Power

Approximately 60–63 hp

@ 9,500 rpm (varies by model year; 2020+ models produce near the upper end)

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Torque

Approximately 53–55 Nm

@ 8,000 rpm (estimate; Yamaha does not officially publish torque figures for this model)

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Fuel Economy

16.7 km/L

39 mpg · Estimated 6–8 L/100km under typical motocross/off-road use (note: highly variable depending on riding intensity; no official road consumption figure exists for this competition-focused bike)

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Service Every

15 hours riding time

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Weight

110 kg

(curb/wet weight, approximate for 2018–2023 models; earlier models slightly heavier)

settings

Engine

449cc liquid-cooled DOHC 4-valve single-cylinder

height

Seat Height

955 mm

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Transmission

5-speed

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Engine Lifespan

Rebuild recommended at 40-60 hours racing use

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Used Buyer Review

The YZ450F is arguably the most capable production motocrosser ever built, but buying one used demands serious homework. Yamaha's reverse-cylinder layout and fuel injection transformed the platform from 2010 onward, making those bikes genuinely desirable secondhand. The engine is a weapon — savage, front-wheel-lifting power that'll expose any gaps in your skill set within the first corner. That's both the appeal and the warning label. Here's the honest part nobody tells you: these bikes get absolutely flogged. Check the frame for cracks near the steering head, inspect the linkage bearings, and demand maintenance records or budget another $800 for a full suspension refresh immediately. Hours on the engine matter enormously — a rebuilt top end every 30-40 hours is the factory recommendation, and plenty of previous owners ignored that cheerfully. Buy a well-documented 2014-2018 example from a disciplined intermediate rider over a cheap, mystery-history 2020. The YZ rewards mechanical diligence. Neglect it and it'll return the favor.