FIRST LOOK: YAMAHA’S ALL-NEW 2027 YZ250F

With a completely redesigned engine and chassis, the 2027 YZ250F spearheads the changes that appear to Yamaha’s latest MX machines. Meanwhile, the 2027 YZ450FX now shares the latest MX platform.

When the same model wins 16 out of 17 rounds of America’s 2026 Supercross Championship, chances are the production machine it’s based on is a pretty damn good thing. Despite those astonishing race-win stats posted by the 2026 YZ250F (which propelled current West and East Supercross champions, Haiden Deegan and Cole Davies, to their 250cc title sweep this season), Yamaha doesn’t appear to be resting on its laurels. In fact, for 2027, the YZ250F gets a completely redesigned engine and extensive chassis changes; upgrades that increase power and improve handling, says Yamaha. All of which must is ominous news for its quarter-litre opposition on MX and SX tracks round the world!

And while the YZ250F continues to dominate the headlines, it’s not the only model to receive updates for 2027. Yamaha has also revealed a handful of key updates to its two-stroke YZ85/LW, while the MY27 YZ450FX cross-country machine now shares the latest MX platform. Other MX, XC and fun models remain unchanged from MY26 except for bold new graphics. 

The 2027-model YZ85/LW, YZ250/450F and YZ450FX and models will be on floors in Aussie dealers from July, August, and October, respectively.

Here’s a snapshot of the details Yamaha Motor Australia released about these key 2027 models’ upgrades, along with some cool imagery to bring the changes to life visually…

2027 YZ250F – AN ALL-NEW WEAPON!

An all-new engine has been designed for high-revving performance that delivers a linear engine response with more power and torque through the rpm range, increasing the rev limit by 700rpm from the previous model. This was achieved through the adoption of a rocker arm with finger follower system derived from Yamaha’s SuperSport YZF-R1, and intake refinements that allow for increased airflow and higher revs. Despite the increase in power, revisions to the airbox and exhaust systems help make the 2027 YZ250F noise compliant, meeting FIM/AMA regulations with a tuned exhaust note that is both more pleasing and comfortable to the rider.

Transferring power to the rear wheel, an all-new hydraulic clutch design replaces the coil springs of the previous model with a new disc spring and integrates primary gear and basket into a single steel unit. The result is a more compact, lightweight and durable assembly which yields smoother, more consistent engagement, requiring less effort while eliminating the need for on-track adjustments. 

The 2027 YZ250F adopts the same advanced aluminium bilateral beam frame as the YZ450F, delivering an unrivaled balance of rigidity and flex characteristics. The new inner and outer structure, including a thinner front downtube, provide improved stability, better cornering performance and a precise, confidence inspiring front-end feel.

New engine brackets have been designed for optimised rigidity, improving comfort and straight-line stability with a more manageable character and a predictable response. These combined chassis updates result in greater usability in everything from slow, tight corners to high-speed sweepers and rough, rutty corner entries and exits, providing a motorcycle that’s easier to tip in, easier to choose and hold a line, with a higher level of overall handling performance.

A new high-performance KYB rear shock and revised fork setting tuned specifically for the YZ250F complement the new frame. The suspension combo provides enhanced damping force with less bump reaction and pitching movement. The updated shock also has a new hand-operated low-speed compression clicker for simplified trackside adjustments. 

The rear braking system has gone through a significant overhaul, resulting in a lightweight compact design that delivers improved control with a linear build-up of stopping power. The rear brake caliper piston, the master cylinder piston and the rear brake disc were all reduced in size, with additional revisions to the brake line material and disc rotor bolts to reduce unsprung weight.

Even with reduced size and weight, the braking system retains progressive and strong stopping characteristics. In addition, the rear brake pedal tip also now uses bolt-type fasteners instead of rivets for simplified maintenance.

As part of the YZ250F’s evolution, styling cues are matched with the flagship YZ450F and now include a slimmer, more compact front number plate, new two-piece side covers, sharper rear fender and new YZ graphics. The honeycomb-pattern seat cover material also enhances rider movement on the motorcycle in various track conditions.

Finally, the industry-leading Yamaha Power Tuner app retains full functionality of the previous version and adds an ECU lock function for theft deterrence, allowing owners to prevent unauthorised engine start-up via a password-required lock accessed through the app.

2027 YZ250F FEATURES & BENEFITS 

• More powerful 250cc four-stroke engine with a revised, more linear power delivery for added control and rideability across the entire powerband;
• A revised and tuned intake and exhaust meets the latest FIM/AMA noise compliant regulations;
• New hydraulic clutch offers lighter lever feel, smoother feathering and a consistent mesh point;
• Advanced fuel injection via a 44mm Mikuni throttle body ensures optimum fuel atomization and power for a wide range of riding conditions;
• Five-speed transmission with tri-shaft layout vertically stacks transmission shafts for a lighter, more compact configuration;
• Yamaha’s industry-leading Power Tuner App includes intuitive “Quick Setting” slide bar, giving the rider direct access to engine tuning, revised Traction and Launch Control settings, and an ECU-lock function;
• New frame design balances rigidity and flex characteristics for a calmer front-end feel and enhanced stability;
• Compact bodywork includes seamless, rounded features that ease rider movement for enhanced control;
• High-spec fully adjustable Speed Sensitive System KYB coil spring-type fork provides exceptional feel and bump absorption;
• New high-performance KYB rear shock enhances low-speed damping and smooths the damping transition between low and high speeds for enhanced control in a variety of conditions;
• New compact and lightweight rear braking system improves controllability with a linear build-up of stopping power;
• Updated styling includes a slimmer, more compact front number plate, new two-piece side covers, sharper rear fender and new YZ graphics;
• Honeycomb-pattern seat cover material maintains ease in rider sliding forward while improving hold from sliding rearward during acceleration; and
• Compact, lightweight push-button electric start provides effortless engine starts.

The new 2027 YZ250F will be available from dealers in August in Team Yamaha Blue ready to ride for $15,049 including GST. A Monster Energy Yamaha Racing Edition will also be available from dealers this September ready to ride for $15,149 including GST.

2027 YZ450FX – REFINED XC PERFORMANCE

The 2027 YZ450FX adopts the updated design of the YZ450F, with improvements in comfort and control in technical terrain. Updates to the engine, frame, suspension and additional components deliver a balance between high-performance output and all-day rideability. The 2027 YZ450FX’s power character is focused on smoother delivery with more controllable low-RPM torque, making it easier to ride in technical conditions.

The suspension characteristics have been specifically optimised to cater to the longer rides of competitive cross-country racing, providing more initial movement, comfort and compliance over slippery, rocky, and root-filled terrain.

Overall, the new YZ450FX is easier to ride faster, longer, especially on extremely technical trails. Key updates include: 

• Engine has greater usability in the low-to mid-range for tight woods and rocky trails with cam timing adjustments and a new AC magneto rotor;
• A new 51T sprocket eases the need for precise throttle control, reducing fatigue on long, demanding cross-country rides;
• A new hydraulic clutch with a 15% reduced clutch lever pull versus 2026 YZ450F and flatter lever stroke delivers enhanced clutch control at lower speeds;
• New YZ450F-derived frame for a responsive feel through corners, traction through acceleration and excellent straight-line stability;
• New engine brackets contribute to a light, agile chassis feel that reduces rider fatigue;
• Same YZ450F KYB suspension, tuned to enhance responsiveness from initial damping to mid-stroke for a more comfortable ride in technical sections while still offering high-speed stability; and
• Lightweight Dunlop Geomax AT82 cross-country tyres with a bi-directional rear tread pattern deliver optimal performance in diverse environments.

The 2027 YZ450FX will be available in dealers from October in Team Yamaha Blue priced at $16,599 including GST, ready to ride.

2027 YZ85/LW – REVISED FOR RIDEABILITY

For younger riders, the 2027 YZ85 and YZ85LW have undergone extensive revisions. New engine updates improve ease of use and rideability across the entire powerband, and new chassis components improve performance and reliability for growing riders. These changes help riders achieve higher racing competitiveness as their skills improve, while providing greater functionality at lower maintenance and operating costs. Key updates include:

• Engine updated with new MotoTassinari VForce4R reed valve, updated power valve, and a new air filter shape that improve performance and power delivery across the entire rev range; 
• New carburettor settings and CDI ignition timing improve performance in varying riding conditions and elevations;
• A heavier flywheel weight with increased inertia improves power delivery and feeling of acceleration;
• New alloy cylinder head material, water-pump impeller, and water-pump cover contribute to cooling performance, combined with additional transmission revisions for improved durability and reliability;
• New clutch friction plate material and judder springs improve clutch reliability and start performance;
• New engine and swingarm brackets optimise chassis rigidity, providing confidence-inspiring cornering and solid, stable handling through big bumps and high-load scenarios;
• Sealed front wheel bearings contribute to improved durability, reliability and lower cost of maintenance;
• A new quick-action throttle with a smaller operating angle improves throttle response and rideability; and
• Water-resistant PVC handlebar pad to match the styling of the full YZ line-up.

The new sealed front wheel bearings and water-resistant PVC handlebar pad from the YZ85 and YZ85LW also make their way to the new 2027 YZ65.

These models are available at Yamaha dealers in Team Yamaha Blue priced ready to ride as follows:

• YZ65 – $6899 (August)
• YZ85 – $8249 (July)
• YZ85LW – $8699 (July)