The significantly upgraded 2023 YZ450F motocross machine is designed to be lighter, faster and easier to ride.
Yamaha has unveiled a heavily revised 2023 YZ450F motocross machine that it says is designed to be lighter, faster and easier to ride than the previous model.
Here’s what’s new:
The 2023 YZ450F engine has been redesigned to be lighter and more durable than the previous model to deliver more linear output for improved rideability.
A new piston, lighter weight cylinder body and low-friction cam chain – along with the lighter crank assembly bearings and hollow balancer shaft – all contribute to a 500rpm rev limit increase and reduced vibration.
A reshaped intake port provides a straighter path and larger diameter titanium intake valves increase air intake volume by a claimed 9% at maximum valve lift.
The 2023 airbox design uses a vortex to separate the dust from the incoming air via centrifugal forces. Fresh air is now channelled to the airbox between the fuel tank, frame, seat and side panels to minimise dust and particle ingress, also resulting in slimmer bodywork.
A durable and lightweight one-piece steel design with disc springs and new lighter and slimmer clutch adds to the bikes overall weight reduction, and lightens clutch feel.
Now with a wider rpm range, the new YZ450F engine has received an updated cooling system including dry sump and timing chain and tensioner for increased durability.
Yamaha’s engineers have redesigned the aluminium bilateral beam frame focusing on geometry, rigidity and strength to provide a lighter feel, increased agility and improved stability.
The YZ450F has a slimmer and more compact body designed for rapid body-weight shifting.
This is made possible with the elimination of the front air ducts, and fitment of compact shrouds and narrower fuel tank, resulting in a slimmer centre section.
Shorter front and rear mudguards minimise overall length.
The 2023 models gets new suspension valving to improve bump absorption. The KYB fork is also now equipped with hand-adjustable compression damping with settings now easily accessible via the Power Tuner smartphone app.
The new Traction Control System has two settings or it can be deactivated via the Power Tuner app, enabling the rider to select the preferred level of intervention depending on track conditions and experience.
Designed to get the holeshot, the Launch Control System now has an adjustable ‘Rev limit’ function with a maximum rpm between 6000rpm and 11,000rpm in 500rpm increments, for full throttle take off.
The 2023 YZ450F has undergone a diet throughout and now weighs 109kg (wet) – a reduction of 2.3kg.
The 2023 Power Tuner app has been upgraded and features an intuitive ‘Quick Tuning’ function that makes it easier and quicker to select the desired engine characteristics by sliding a scrollbar that runs from ‘Smooth’ through to ‘Aggressive’. The new app includes additional functions including a lap timer, rpm, fuel consumption, speed and other data, and there is also a suspension FAQ page that helps YZ450F owners to achieve their best set up.
The Monster Energy Yamaha Racing Edition features black bodywork with blue highlights and Monster Energy graphics, inspired by the factory racebikes.
The 2023 YZ450F will be available in Australia from November 2022.
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