Mapping Matters: 2016 WR450F

These days, with sophisticated ECUs and fuel injection systems, any reference to a machine’s power delivery should really be made with reference to the ECU map the bike is running, because altering the fuel and/or ignition settings by just a few percent can generate big changes in a bike’s power characteristics.

So, to help frame our feedback about the new WR450F’s power delivery (see Transmoto’s 2016 January-February issue, on sale now), here are details of the fuel and ignition details for each of the Yamaha Power Tuner maps we tested. Note that each increment in fuel settings is 3%, while each increment for ignition timing is 1%.

STANDARD (ADR) MAP

In standard trim with all the ADR restrictions in place, the settings for both fuel and ignition are zero across the table. Because bikes were derestricted at the Australian media launch for the bikes, this ‘benchmark’ map was not used.

COMPETITION TRIM MAP*

With the ADR restrictors removed (and a larger diameter outlet inserted into the muffler’s end-cap), the ECU needs to be re-mapped accordingly. As the table indicates, the map the YMA technicians developed for the launch uses more fuel at lower revs for added torque and less up top to generate more revs. The ignition settings are advanced across the board to allow the engine to rev. 

TRACTION MAP*

With richer fuel settings at lower revs, the power comes on less abruptly. It builds its power in a smoother, torquier, more progressive way. Retarding the ignition at all throttle openings through the bottom and mid then acts like traction control. 

YZ450F MUFFLER MAP*

Riders and racers who like more responsive, punchy power may look to fit a less restrictive YZ450F muffler. As you’d expect, it uses more fuel (except at lower revs to avoid flame-outs) and more ignition advance for most throttle openings and RPMs.

* These maps will be available on YMAs website or from Yamaha dealers.

OFF-ROAD COMPETITON KIT

A greater majority of Yamaha customers ask their Yamaha dealer to de-restrict WR-Fs so they come in closed-course competition trim (or do it themselves using the instruction manual). Here’s what comes in this FOC Off-Road Competition Kit:

• Steel-braided front brakeline
• Banjo bolts (front and rear)
• YZ-F front master cylinder
• LED tail-light and licence-plate holder
• Larger-diameter muffler outlet
• Full-wrap Barkbusters hand guards
• Start-switch and kill-switch – these replace the ADR switchblocks (blinkers, horn, headlight, etc) on the handlebars
• Wiring connectors for headlight and tail-light
• Sidestand bolt and spring plate
• Brake Snake