2009 Yamaha YZ450F
In addition to the Yamaha’s outstanding suspension compliance, once you set rider sag (between 102-106mm), you’re not going to need to make a whole lot of adjustments, as the baseline suspension settings out of the box suited our group well. Throughout the day our Yamaha tech had to have been bored out of his mind because none of our testers felt the need to make nearly any adjustments.
Although the ’09 YZ450F benefits from a new swingarm, rear suspension linkage, and rear hub, we couldn’t notice a difference. What we did perceive however, are the same mild-mannered handling traits we enjoyed on last year’s bike. Although the Yamaha isn’t the sharpest turning, it does turn well and never catches the rider off guard. Add in the unflappable chassis and high level of stability and it seems nothing can faze the Yamaha.
Engine: 449cc liquid-cooled Single, DOHC, 5-valves
Bore x Stroke: 95 x 63.4mm
Compression Ratio: 12.3:1
Fuel Delivery: Keihin FCR carburetor
Horsepower: 46 hp @ 8800 rpm
Torque: 29.5 lb-ft @ 7600 rpm
Transmission: 5-Speed
Front Suspension: Kayaba AOS 47mm fork, 20-position compression and 20-position rebound damping adjustment; 11.8 in. travel
Rear Suspension: Kayaba gas charged shock, 20-position low-speed and step-less high-speed compression damping, 20-position rebound damping and adjustable spring preload; 12.3 in. travel
Front Brake: 245mm disc, double-piston caliper
Rear Brake: 245mm disc, single-piston caliper
Handlebars: Pro Taper
Tires: Dunlop D742FA 80/100-21, D756 120/90-19
Curb Weight: 240 lbs. (ready to ride)
Wheelbase: 58.8 in.
Length: 86.4 in.
Width: 32.5 in.
Ground Clearance: 14.7 in.
Seat Height: 38.9 in.
Fuel Capacity: 1.8 gal.
MSRP: $7399 Team Yamaha Blue/White; $7499 White/Red
