2022 YAMAHA YZ85 & YZ85LW: THE UPGRADES

With the revamped 2022-model YZ125 representing Yamaha’s first all-new 125cc two-stroke MXer in 15 years, the boys in blue could hardly leave its little brother, the YZ85 and YZ85LW (Large Wheel), out in the cold when it came to upgrades. And they sure didn’t! For 2022, the bikes that Yamaha rightly refers to as, “the important entry models into the world of competitive motocross” get mods to engine, frame, subframe and swingarm, and a complete overhaul to rider ergos via a new seat and tank design, and all-new bodywork.

Here’s a more detailed look at those mods…

2022 YZ85 & YZ85LW – SHARED MODS

ENGINE

• Revised (straighter) intake design to bolster low-RPM power.

BODYWORK

• New flatter seat, narrower fuel tank, and slimmer (and now symmetrical) radiator shrouds combine to improve rider ergonomics;
• More integrated/seamless plastic panels for freedom of movement around the cockpit;
• Stylish Team Yamaha Blue graphics, which are now embedded for added durability; and
• Blacked-out radiator louvres to complement the aggressive new look.

ROLLING CHASSIS

• To optimise strength and rigidity, there have been revisions to the design of the main frame, swingarm and rear wheel axle;
• The alloy swingarm is redesigned to enhance the balance between longitudinal and torsional rigidity for improved chassis stability;
• It gets a new removeable lightweight alloy subframe (which is constructed from a high-strength aluminium that’s 570g lighter than its steel predecessor!);
• New rear brake master cylinder with built-in sub reservoir for more linear braking response and increased control; and
• New lightweight handlebar (40g lighter than previous model’s bar).

HOW DOES THE YZ85LW DIFFER FROM THE YZ85?

• For 2022, the YZ85LW (Large Wheel) model takes the race-winning YZ85 formula and enhances off-road capability even more with the addition of a larger 19-inch front wheel and 16-inch rear wheel, wrapped in high-performance Dunlop MX3S tyres.
• A longer swingarm accommodates the larger rear wheel and increases handling stability; and
• The 2022 YZ85LW is designed to be the ideal transition between the standard YZ85 and the full-size YZ125, perfectly suited to 85cc riders who are looking for a big-bike feel.

PRICE & AVAILABILITY

The 2022 YZ85 and YZ85LW will both be available from Australian Yamaha dealers in early 2022 at a Recommended Ride Away price (including GST) of $7899 and $8299, respectively. Both models are only available with Team Yamaha Blue graphics.

While we’re talking new mini models from Yamaha, the 2022 YZ65 remains unchanged from its predecessor, except for updated Team Yamaha Blue embedded graphics. It’s available now for $6689.