The Big Unveil: Yamaha's 2016 WR450F

Subsequent to images being leaked via social media late last week, Yamaha Motor Australia (YMA) unveiled the all-new, Australian-spec 2016-model WR450F at the Phillip Island round of the MotoGP today. Here’s the key stuff you need to know about the completely overhauled, landmark new machine…

Yamaha’s 2016-model WR450F benefits from the most advanced engine and chassis technology in its category. The new model has been developed by Australian and NZ-based riders, including former Grand Prix ace and Yamaha race team manager, Josh Coppins. Based on the latest YZ450F that dominated the MXGP World Championship, the all-new WR450F utilises Yamaha’s innovative reverse-cylinder head and rearward-slanting cylinder.

This industry-leading engine design gives WR450F riders high levels of controllable and linear torque, while this design’s greater mass centralisation contributes towards the bike’s agile handling character. By adopting the latest YZ-F derived engine layout, together with the compact and light-handling YZ-F based chassis, the all-new WR450F delivers major improvements in terms of weight, power characteristics, agility and rideability.

Aimed at enduro racers, long distance rally riders and recreational riders, the 2016 WR450F looks set to build on its popularity Down Under where it has consistently been the top-selling off-road motorcycle. To underline the involvement that Oz and NZ have had with the WR450F’s development, Yamaha is offering a 60th Anniversary model (in yellow/black/white livery) to Oceania customers only.

The Australian model is supplied with ADR compliance for road registration. It is also supplied with an Off-Road Kit that is not-for-road use. It includes a rear number plate/LED light for off-road use, braided steel front brakeline, Barkbusters hand guards, rear brake snake, rear stop light and hydraulically operated switch, full-power muffler insert, full-power throttle stop, YZ air filter cage and racing wire harness for headlight and tail-light.

Yamaha’s wide range of Genuine Accessories covers all of the 2016 off-road models – 2016 WR450F included – and includes everything from tools and service parts through to slip-on mufflers and GYTR protectors and engine cases.

2016 WR450F Model Overview

Aggressive and modern YZ450F-inspired reverse-fed design concept
Compact, mass-centralised design delivers light and agile handling feel
Linear torque for easy-to-control engine performance
Industry-leading KYB suspension with enduro settings give stable and confident handling
MXGP World Championship-winning DNA

2016 WR450F Technical Highlights

YZ450F-based 450cc liquid-cooled DOHC, fuel-injected four-valve engine
Revolutionary reverse cylinder head with front-facing intake
Engine power is fully adjustable with optional Yamaha Power Tuner
Wide-ratio five-speed transmission with light enduro clutch
Efficient cooling by enduro radiator with cooling fan
Top-mounted, quickly removable air filter
YZ-F based bilateral-beam frame with optimised rigidity balance
Latest KYB air-oil separation (AOS) type front forks
270mm front brake disc
Link-type monocross suspension
Main switch-free electric starter
Instrument panel featuring enduro computer, fuel warning and more
Slim bodywork and durable in-mould WR-F graphics
21-inch front wheel and 18-inch rear wheel with Metzeler 6 Days Extreme tyres

For the Australian market, the 2016 WR450F will be available in Team Yamaha Blue for the same RRP as the 2015-model WR450F ($12,999), while the 60th Anniversary Yellow model has a $13,199 RRP. The bikes are expected to arrive in Australian dealers in January, 2016. Chances are, they’ll sell fast, so get your orders in.

For our more detailed assessment of this new-generation 2016 WR450F, check out this insight we offered when images and info about the all-new bike first appeared last last week.