PRODUCT SPOTLIGHT: Yoshimura RS-12

Now, before you roll your eyes and mutter “here we go, another exhaust yarn,” bear with me. Because what the engineers at Yoshimura have done with the RS-12 isn’t just bolt on some shiny pipe and call it revolutionary. These blokes have gone full mad scientist on the whole exhaust game, and the results are, well… let’s just say Jett Lawrence didn’t win that 2025 AMA Motocross Championship on charm alone.

Here’s where things get interesting. While some aftermarket exhaust manufacturers are content to bang out a one-size-fits-all solution, Yoshimura’s engineers have gone and developed RS-12 systems for each model – and I mean properly bespoke, not just tweaking the mounting brackets and calling it a day.

Take the KTM 350 EXC-F system, for instance. The 350 has always been that Goldilocks engine, not quite the arm-stretcher of the 450, but meatier than a 250 that needs to be wrung like a wet dishrag.  Yoshimura built an RS-12 system specifically to allow the 350 platform to carry more power through the entire range. Providing a much wider power curve with a 2.7% bump in max horsepower and 2.6% increase in max torque to boot.

Now, compare that to what they’ve done to optimise the Yamaha YZ250F RS-12 system. 

The Blu Cru boys have always built a screamer of a 250, but Yoshimura knew they could make it even better. They went to work developing a system that complements the YZ’s distinctive power characteristics. The results?  A refined exhaust system that enhances mid-range performance for the high-revving 250cc platform while adding 2.5% max horsepower and a healthy 2.8% max torque increase over stock.

The RS-12 doesn’t just add power; it adds purposeful power. While every RS-12 system looks like it could be related, what’s going on inside is completely different depending on what bike it’s bolted to. And after you’ve finished drooling over the matte carbon fibre end cap, you’ll notice the build quality is typical Yoshimura, which is to say, bloody excellent.  The welds are gorgeous and the fitment spot-on, which separates the RS-12 from the pretenders.

Many RS-12 systems come with USFS-approved spark arrestors fitted to prevent any sparks exiting the muffler that could cause a fire, which becomes critical during the dry season when the bush is a tinderbox waiting for an excuse to go up. The clever PTF insert system featured on the RS-12 makes removing and installing a spark arrestor easier than ever.

The Verdict: 

Yoshimura’s engineering first approach shows a level of commitment to performance that’s increasingly rare and the RS-12 stands out like a works bike in a field of stockers.  It’s not just about making more noise or looking flash in the pits (though it certainly does both). It’s about genuine, measurable performance improvements that you can feel from the first crack of the throttle.

Is it the secret to instant speed? No. You’ll still need to know how to ride the bloody thing. That said, if you’re serious about performance and serious about having engineered equipment that won’t let you down, the Yoshimura RS-12 deserves your attention.

Yoshimura exhaust pipes, hard parts and electrical components are proudly distributed by A1 Accessory Imports, Australia’s House of Powersports. To find an exhaust pipe suited to your motorcycle visit www.houseofpowersports.com.au/yoshimura/model-search