revolutionary thinkingThe concept was radical yet simple - build a four-stroke that

performed like a two-stroke. And that’s what Yamaha engineer Yoshiharu Nakayama did with the revolutionary YZ400F. The most unique feature was its five-valve Genesis head, first pioneered on Yamaha’s FZ750 road bike a decade before. A high flow head design was mated to a super lightweight slipper piston and short stroke configuration to give the bike a super free revving feel. The head did away with old school power robbing - and rpm limiting - features like rocker arms and used lightweight alloys throughout the powertrain. Because of this, the YZF could safely rev all the way to 11,000rpm while most four-strokes of the day would top out at 9000rpm.

Incredibly, the ground breaking YZ400F was not a big-budget, full-factory project. Yoshiharu-san designed most of the new model in his own time… at home and on weekends. And built the prototype with a workforce of three.

The YZ400F raced to instant success with Doug Henry winning the 1997 Vegas Supercross and then backed that up by taking out the 1998 AMA Motocross Series. And on the world stage Andrea Bartolini claimed the 500cc MX title. The YZF formed the basis of the WR400F with both four-strokes heralded as a revolution in dirt bike design.

Australians have been key to WR450F development, with riders such as Geoff Ballard and Stefan Merriman offering valuable feedback to the factory.

Other brands followed - but none have matched the combination of performance and reliability achieved by the WR450F’s unique five titanium valve engine design wrapped in a state-of-the-art aluminium chassis.

1997It’s a revolution! YZ400F unleashed on the public

1998THE GAME CHANGER WR400F is released based on YZ400F with a wide ratio five speed transmission, lights and 12 litre fuel tank

2007Handling transformation : All NEW aluminium

chassis : All NEW ergos and plastics

2005MIGHTY REFINEMENT

Capacity increased to 449ccElectric start fitted

Larger 10 litre tank specifiedChassis and steering angle changes

2012All new YZ250F based bilateral beam frame : Five valve engine now fuel injected : Power Tuner adds genuine versatility :Twin chamber Kayaba SSS forks and shock

2000Increased bore to 95mm which

raised capacity to 426cc : Smaller 8 litre tank specified

the next level

“create the best model for cornering and carving singletrack ”

Project leader Masaki Kamimura attended the 2012 WR450F Australian launch and revealed some of the thinking behind the new model.Q: What was the goal for the NEW WR450F MODEL DEVELOPMENTA: To create the best model for cornering and carving singletrack.

Q: How did you GO about that?A: The WR450F had always been a development of the YZ450F MX bike with the frame adapted for enduro use. But this time we used a YZ250F chassis as the base and developed both the YZ250F and WR450F frames together.

Q: How is the FRAME made?A: For an enduro frame, the important factors are the type of aluminium alloy used and the degree of penetration in the welding bead. Although the welding is mainly robotic, a great deal of know-how is needed to apply the optimum electrical current, welding speed and the direction of the weld. Our experienced technicians program the robots, but they hand weld areas where the greatest craftsmanship and precision are needed to create the finished frame.

Q: What about the ENGINE?A: We decided to fit the proven and trusted 5-valve 450cc engine of the existing model. We knew that enhancing performance with fuel injection to boost response in the low- to mid-speed ranges would produce the linear performance our customers demand. We also developed the Yamaha Power Tuner, a handheld device that changes engine settings in a fun and precise manner, so you can get the most out of your enduro riding.

Q: What type of SUSPENSION was specified?YZ250F type front and rear that are proven in MX competition but revised with enduro settings. The upside-down forks with air-liquid separation have revised damping characteristics that offer a combination of excellent shock absorbing plush action you want when entering a tight turn.

home on the trailTechnical, rock strewn hill climb? WR450F eats them for breakfast. Muddy, rutted singletrack?

WR450F finds traction where none seems likely. Gnarly, root infested downhill? WR450F floats

over with poise. Wide open fire trail? WR450F is on line every time.

Strap it down, hose it off and do the same tomorrow.

Nothing feels more at home... Home on the trail.

bred to winLike its YZF brother, the WR450F was developed to win races. And after 15 years in production, the list of

championships is too long to mention here. Honed in the extreme proving grounds of International Six Day

Events, this bike has also dominated the local race scene. For example, WR450F scooped the 2012 Australian

Off Road Championship and Australian Four Day class titles.

You can only achieve that on a great motorcycle.

But being developed for local conditions using Australian title holding test riders helps.

bike for all reasonsWhen you’ve been riding seven days straight

and the next fuel stop is in a different state you get to really appreciate your bike. Which is why more big trippers are going the WR450F.

With a 16 litre Safari tank fitted and a few other choice modifications, the WR450F makes a sensational rally weapon. Awesome linear power, light weight and stable handling are great in the

dunes as well as on the track or trail. And there’s one other feature that makes the WRF the wise adventure biker’s choice – reliability.

Dakar riders love its dependability. You will too.

{ Optimised cylinder inclination angle of 4.5 degrees centralises mass for light handling }

{ Five titanium valves and load-reduced springs. This decreases weight by more than 40% over a conventional steel valve train and reduces reciprocating mass for faster-revving and smoother-hitting power delivery across the rev range. Magnesium cylinder head cover helps reduce weight }

{ Lightweight aluminium cylinder features a ceramic composite coating which eliminates the need for a heavy iron sleeve. The ceramic coating ensures faster, more uniform heat dissipation, reduced friction and a longer service life }

{ Balancer shaft reduces vibration for excellent rider comfort and reduced fatigue during long rides }

WR450F is the ultimate in versatility and here’s why... the optional handheld Power Tuner can transform performance in seconds to suit riding conditions.Got mud? Plug in and select a rich fuel mixture for low-speed torque and super traction... Dry and dusty? Lean it out for easier revving in the high-speed range. The options are endless.

The Power Tuner lets you change settings on the fuel injection volume map and ignition timing map at the press of a button. The Tuner also has a monitor function so you’ll know when it’s time to replace parts or get your regular maintenance work done. It can also display self-diagnosis results for 15 items including the ECU, actuators and sensors.

By coupling the Power Tuner to the machine before a ride you can also check

: water temperature : intake air temperature : air pressure : idling speed... and more.

To help you get off on the right foot, our WRF teams have developed the map settings here for you to plug and play. Get involved, it’s as easy as an iPod.

Upload these maps as a starting point and develop your own that you can share with mates. And because the Power Tuner is pocket-sized, you can take it anywhere to create and save new maps.

{ Piston oil cooler features a pinpoint nozzle that directs oil to reduce piston, cylinder and rod temperatures for excellent durability }

{ 10-hole fuel injector maximises fuel atomisation for more complete combustion and great power output }

{ High capacity alternating current magneto is used to power the FI system and other electrical components }

{ Lightweight direct ignition coil is integrated into the spark plug cap to reduce weight and complexity }

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MOTOcROSS MAP: Quick and revvy feel. Ideal for quick acceleration

and hitting jumps.BUSH MAP: Smooth power and

smooth acceleration at low speedsHARD PAcK MAP: Smooth and

direct acceleration over hard pack and slippery conditions.

AUSSIE MAP: For offroad kitted WR450F. Good power in all areas.SANDY MAP: Strong torque and

good acceleration on soft ground.

MODDED WR450F MAP: For use with modified WR450F (YZ450F muffler). Great for enduro racing.

Riders rave about the heaps of controlled, linear power from this fuel injected mill.

controlled power

peerless package

High tech, lightweight digital meter features speedometer, dual tripmeters, odometer and a clock in the basic mode. Or in the race mode, pace management functions such as timer, and distance compensating tripmeter

Washable, dual-stage, foam air filter can be accessed without tools via quick release fasteners

Lightweight exhaust features a stainless steel header pipe with titanium heat shield and aluminium muffler. The exhaust features a resonator canister which helps create a more efficient exhaust pulse effect for improved low to mid power

R Yamaha pioneered the use of controlled fill technology that is used on this frame. CF fill is a process that allows exact thicknesses of aluminium to be specified in various parts of the frame to achieve an optimised rigidity balance. Getting this right contributes to a feeling of lightness, agility and traction

Our frame designers have nailed what every rider craves - a combo of quick direction changes with rock solid stability. Made from high grade aluminium using a cutting edge control fill technology, the WR450F

chassis offers a uniquely stable handling package. The steering head, wheelbase, caster and trail dimensions have been carefully tweaked to suit enduro riding.

Link-type rear suspension features a fully adjustable, Kayaba piggy back style shock with separate adjusters for high- and low-speed compression damping

Lightweight, tapered, aluminium swingarm is produced using hydro forming, a special method that uses high pressure water to form shapes. This design provides great overall chassis balance for precise cornering and light handling

Lightweight dual radiators increase cooling efficiency

Adjustable, inverted, 48mm Kayaba cartridge

forks provide excellent suspension performance. Twin

chamber design is straight off the YZ. The damper

unit is in a separate structure which prevents

aerated fork oil from entering the inner damper

assembly and reducing its damping abilities

Fork also features a Transfer Control Valve (TCV). The TCV enhances damping force from mid to full stroke and improves bottoming characteristics. This offers more precise control throughout the full suspension stroke

Lightweight, tapered aluminium handlebars

are mated to adjustable forged handlebar mounts

that allow the bars to be moved 10mm rearward

Look fast in Yamaha Racing gear

pimp your rideAll WR450Fs come fully road

legal and ADR compliant. They also come with a competition Kit for those into closed course riding or racing. The kit is valued at $650 and includes the following:

{Compact front brake master cylinder kit }{Braided steel front brake line }{Cycra handguards }{Rear brake light switch }{Competition GYTR exhaust muffler tip }{LED tail light and licence plate holder }{Brake snake }{13/50 sprocket set }{Wiring for Power Tuner }

Yamaha also offers a wide range of accessories to personalise your WRF. Here are a selection of the most popular. For more, visit http://yshop.yamaha-motor.com.au

S Yamaha Enduro JacketKeep warm with a 600D nylon shell and waterproof liner. Then cool down with zip off sleeves and zip out thermolite chest liner. Two way main zipper with four front and one rear cargo pocket. Embroidered with Yamaha logos on the front and rear. Sizes SM-3XL. Part number: END-14JKT-BL

S GYTR Alloy Enduro Sump GuardAluminium plate designed with side skirts to help protect the lower frame rails, critical engine components, water pump, ignition cover and clutch components even on the gnarliest enduro course.Part number: 1DX-F14B0-AU-01

W GYTR Radiator cagesDesigned to provide great protection with minimal reduction in airflow while keeping the weight increase down. The radiator cages incorporate tubes across the face of the guard offering excellent side impact protection. Also includes substantial rear bracing to further enhance both side impact and fold back strength. The grill design has been flow tested and reduces linear air flow by less than 10% at lower speeds when compared to the standard louvre grill supplied with most bikes. Part number: 1DX-E24C0-AU-AL

R GYTR Slip-On MufflerIdeal for both trail riders and racers, this muffler complies with most MA noise regulations for racing at 115DB while offering significant gains across the power range. Part number: GYT-S2S93-30-SS

W GYTR Front Alloy Disc GuardMachined from 6061 billet aluminium, helps protect the front brake disc. Will fit both the O.E Front Disc and the optional accessory GYTR 270mm Oversized Front Brake Kit. Part number: DBY-ACC56-34-43

W 16 Litre Safari TankFor the adventurous rider or racer who wants to go harder for longer. A slim-line design features integrated radiator shrouds and is a direct replacement without major modifications. Available in blue or translucent. Note: Not designed for aftermarket exhaust systems that have a larger power bomb in the header. For closed-course competition only.Part number: 1DX-24110-15-BL

W Yamaha Racing Pro Gear BagPack up your troubles in this oversized bag that canhandle all your essential riding gear including chest protectors, boots, helmets and much more. Features quick-pull handle system, off-road type wheels and a washable changing mat. Part number: YRC-12GBG-PR-BL

going offOnce you have made your wise

purchase, you can benefit from a range of WRF supported rides and training schools. Why not contact one of these industry leading bodies and hook up with like minded WR450F owners?

coffs Harbour DetourRide some of the finest trails in Australia with your genial host Boris Everson.W: www.coffsharbourdetour.com.auM: 0407 300 690P: 02 6654 4690 E: boris@coffsharbourdetour.com.au

Yamaha RTcB Trail Rides QLD based rides on privately owned farmland PeeWee, novice and open trail W: http://rtcb.net/rides-a-events.htmlM: 0488 368 722

Queensland Moto Park QLD based multi-track venue includes PeeWee, ATV, trail, enduro, MX and freestyle. Y-AIM training venue between Boonah and Beaudesert

P: 07 5463 5015 A: Goan Road, Coulson. Qld. 4310 (Approx 30kms from Beaudesert and 3kms from Ipswich-Boonah Road on Beaudesert-Boonah Road)

E: info@qldmotopark.com.au

West coast SafarisOrganised trail bike tours of WA courtesy of John Staines. They are also affiliated with West Coast Trail Park an hour south of Bunbury.

W: www.westcoastsafaris.com.au

M: C/O Kirup Post Office, KIRUP WA 6251

P: 0429 825 775E: ride@westcoastsafaris.com.au

Watagans Trail Bike RallyAnnual ride in the NSW Central Coast’s Watagan Forest.W: www.trailbikerallys.com.au

SA Forest RideForest Trail Ride Trilogy offers three rides in the pine forests of South Australia.W: www.find-n-trax.com.au

Yamaha Advanced Institute of Motocross (Y-AIM)Industry leading dirt bike rider training for all skill levels. Former elite level racers Cam Taylor (VIC); Shane Metcalf (SA); Shane Booth (NSW) and Chris Urquhart (QLD) can take you to the next level.QLD: www.urkymx.comNSW: www.yaim-nsw.comVIc: www.camerontaylormx.comSA: www.shanemetcalfe.com

“The WR450F really is the full package - a race winning motorcycle that is ideal for the fast trail rider. The motor is bulletproof, the chassis second to none and the suspension is the best out there. Our guys love the dependability and performance of this versatile motorcycle ”Craig Dack, YAMAHA CDR TEAM MANAGER

Always remember to review your Yamaha Motorcycle Owner’s Manual before you ride. Before each ride, take time to check all your equipment. Always wear an approved helmet, eye protection, long-sleeved shirt, long trousers, gloves and boots. And always be sure your bike is in first-class condition before riding. Keep it well-maintained and always outfitted in accordance with state and local laws. Every motorcycle rider should be aware of the limits of his or her skills, experience and abilities and ride accordingly. Beginners should be extremely cautious and allow extra time and distance for manoeuvring and braking. All riders should ride well within the limits of their abilities, never beyond them. Always ride in a responsible manner, respecting the environment as well as all state and local laws. Ride responsibly, and remember, motorcycle riders, as all motorists, must practice defensive driving. Do not drink and ride. It is illegal and dangerous. Yamaha encourages you to ride safely and respect the environment. Specifications and colour options are subject to change without notice, in accordance with national regulations and legislations. Copyright is YMA. Yamaha reserves the right to change specifications without notice. Confirm with your dealer before purchase. Specifications and measurements are approximate and subject to variances. Images for display purposes. Models may feature non-standard items.

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check out the WR450F REUNION movie here http://youtu.be/qtdmm2S4iIg

Engine Type Liquid cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 5-valve

Displacement 449.0 cc

Bore & Stroke 95.0 x 63.4 mm

Compression Ratio 12.3 : 1

Lubrication Dry sump

Fuel Management EFI

Ignition TCI

Starter System Electric & Kick

Fuel tank capacity 7.2 L

Oil capacity 1.2 L

Transmission 5-speed

Front Suspension Telescopic fork

Rear Suspension Swingarm

Front Brakes Single disc

Rear Brakes Single disc

Front Tyre 80/100-21M/C 51P

Rear Tyre 120/90-18M/C 65P

Length 2315 mm

Width 825 mm

Height 1275 mm

Seat Height 960 mm

Wheelbase 1475 mm

Ground Clearance 335 mm

Dry Weight 119kg (off road kit, no fuel)

Wet Weight 129 kg (full ADR with 7.2 litres of fuel)