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2008 YZ450F

Model HomeInnovationSpecsGalleryVideoApparelAccessoriesBuild Your OwnModel 2009
 Key Features:
  • The bike that started the four-stroke revolution benefits from chassis and engine refinements that ensure the five-titanium-valved YZ450F remains at the head of the open-class pack.
  • Subtle modifications to the aluminum frame and suspension mean light, precise, confident handling at any speed.
  • New head and exhaust design delivers stronger low- to midrange power without sacrificing top end power.
  • Ready to race straight out of the crate—with a ProTaper aluminum handlebar in adjustable clamps, titanium shock spring, gripper seat, Excel rims, etc.
  • Five-speed gearbox provides maximum flexibility and the right gear for a wide range of riding environments.
 New for 2008:
  • Revised intake port shapes, and revised intake and exhaust cam profiles increase combustion efficiency for improved torque and throttle response in the low- to mid-rpm range.
  • Micron-level adjustment of piston external diameter minimizes piston-to-cylinder clearance for reduced vibration and mechanical noise.
  • Adjustment of gear backlash between clutch primary gears and balancer gears achieves further mechanical noise reduction.
  • A new, larger-diameter titanium exhaust header with revised taper characteristics enhances exhaust efficiency.
  • First “punched cone” muffler ever on a production bike allows 35 percent length reduction and 270-gram weight reduction while meeting AMA noise regulations.
  • Matte black crankcase covers: light, strong and cool-looking.
  • Steering head pipe and steering stem are 5mm shorter; lower forged triple steering clamp is lighter—for enhanced handling feel. Swingarm pivot stiffness is revised to complement front-end changes and further lighten and improve steering/handling.
  • Changes to the shape of the outer fork tubes and revised internals result in improved damping and a smoother ride.
  • Optimized linkage ratio provides a smoother ride and enhanced rear wheel traction.
  • New, YZ250F-style, front-brake caliper (-220 grams) and a lighter disc remove unsprung weight and provide excellent stopping power. A new axle and collar remove additional weight.
  • A 120/80-19 rear Dunlop D756 knobby replaces the 110/90-19 for even more traction. A D742FA replaces the D739FAL front tire.
  • Wider footpegs provide excellent boot traction and rider comfort.
 Engine:
  • 449cc five-valve DOHC liquid-cooled engine is super-powerful yet tractable.
  • 39mm Keihin FCR flat-slide carburetor with throttle position sensor (TPS) and leak jet delivers precise fuel/air mixture and instant throttle response.
  • Lightweight titanium valves and load-reduced springs minimize reciprocating mass for fast-revving, hard-hitting power delivery across the rev range.
  • Primary kickstarting with automatic decompression and convenient, handlebar-mounted hot start lever ensures easy restarts.
  • Large-capacity radiator is reinforced for greater strength.
 Chassis/Suspension:
  • Extensively tested aluminum frame uses a mix of alloy castings, forgings and extrusions to produce a tuned-flex frame that makes the YZ the finest-handling motocross bike ever.
  • Speed-Sensitive System 48mm Kayaba fork places transfer control valves (TCV) above the fork springs, so that damping force is controlled by piston speed: Eliminating mid-stroke damping force changes provides a smoother, more precise ride.
  • Titanium-sprung, four-way adjustable rear shock with Kashima-coated internals reduces friction for fantastic compliance and great handling.
  • More weight savings come via two-piece (part aluminum, part plastic) engine protector plates and thin-walled engine guard construction.
  • Removable aluminum rear subframe constructed of square-section tubing for light weight and easy maintenance.
  • Lightweight front-wheel hub for reduced unsprung weight and increased durability.
  • Lightweight front- and rear-brake calipers with aluminum pistons and anti-bubble front master cylinder; wave-style rotors reduce unsprung weight and deliver strong stopping power.
 Additional Features:
  • “Gripper” style seat cover gives excellent feel and control.
  • ProTaper aluminum handlebar for strength and performance.
  • Works-style clutch lever features oversize barrel adjuster for easy, on-the-fly adjustability of lever/cable play.
  • Repackable exhaust silencer.
  • Durable, comfortable handlebar grips.