Yamaha Motor Australia has revealed the all-new 2027 WR450F, with the latest generation of its flagship four-stroke enduro receiving extensive updates aimed at improving control, rideability and performance across everything from tight technical singletrack to fast-flowing trails.

Based on Yamaha’s successful YZ450F motocross platform, the MY27 WR450F has received major changes to its engine, frame, suspension, clutch, rear brake and bodywork. Yamaha says the development focus was on creating a more intuitive motorcycle with improved precision and control.

Revised 450cc engine

The 450cc four-stroke engine has been retuned with a focus on low- to mid-range power, with a redesigned intake port aimed at producing a more linear power delivery and improved torque.

Changes to cam timing and increased AC magneto inertia are designed to improve combustion stability and stall resistance at low speeds, while the rear drive sprocket has increased from 50 to 51 teeth to further enhance controllability, particularly on flowing third-gear trails.

The engine continues to use a 44mm Mikuni throttle body and five-speed transmission, while Yamaha’s Power Tuner App provides Quick Setting engine tuning, Traction Control, Launch Control and an ECU-lock function.

New frame and KYB suspension

A new aluminium bilateral beam frame is designed to balance rigidity and flex characteristics, with a revised front downtube aimed at improving stability, front-end feel and cornering performance.

The suspension package has also been revised, with a new KYB rear shock featuring a new piston designed to improve low-speed damping and expand the range of adjustment.

Perhaps more significantly for riders who regularly make suspension adjustments in the field, the rear shock now features a hand-operated low-speed compression clicker, allowing trackside adjustments without tools. The front KYB Speed Sensitive System fork receives revised settings intended to improve feel, comfort and bump absorption.

Hydraulic clutch and lighter rear brake

For 2027, the WR450F moves to a hydraulic clutch, which Yamaha says provides a lighter lever feel, smoother feathering and a consistent engagement point while eliminating the need for on-track adjustment.

A redesigned clutch inner hub also improves lubrication coverage for greater consistency and durability.

At the rear, the brake disc, master cylinder and piston have been downsized, with new brake pad material improving controllability while reducing the rear brake system’s weight by 180 grams.

Updated ergonomics and styling

The WR450F receives updated bodywork including a sharper rear fender and new WRF graphics, while a new honeycomb-pattern seat cover is designed to make it easier for the rider to move forward under braking while helping prevent unwanted movement towards the rear under acceleration.

Other equipment includes a lightweight lithium-ion battery, aluminium tapered handlebar, four-position adjustable rubber-mounted handlebar mounts, electric start and Dunlop Geomax EN91 FIM Enduro DOT-approved tyres.

Australian specification

Australian-delivered WR450F models will arrive with full ADR compliance, including the equipment required for road registration. Yamaha will also supply a closed-course competition off-road kit with each motorcycle, including a lightweight LED tail light and licence plate holder, braided front brake line, Barkbusters, brake protection components and other competition-focused equipment.

The 2027 WR450F has a claimed 116kg wet weight with a full tank and all fluids in off-road competition specification, a 955mm seat height, 330mm ground clearance and 7.4-litre fuel capacity. Suspension travel is 300mm at the front and 306mm at the rear.

Yamaha says the new WR450F was developed with input from Australian and New Zealand riders, including the ShopYamaha Enduro team that dominated the 2026 Australian Enduro titles.

Australian pricing and availability for the 2027 Yamaha WR450F will be announced at a later date.

2027 Yamaha WR450F Specifications

yamaha-motor.com.au

Price: TBA
Warranty: TBA
Colours: Team Yamaha Blue
Wet weight: 116kg (with full fuel and all fluids, off-road competition specification)
Fuel capacity: 7.4L

Engine: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC, four-valve, 450cc, 97 x 60.8mm bore x stroke, 13.0:1 compression ratio, fuel injection, five-speed constant-mesh gearbox, hydraulic clutch, chain final drive.

Chassis: Lightweight aluminium bilateral beam frame
Rake: 27°, Trail: 121mm
Suspension: 48mm KYB spring-type fork with speed-sensitive damping, fully adjustable, 300mm travel, KYB single rear shock, fully adjustable, 306mm travel.
Brakes: Hydraulic single 270mm front disc, hydraulic single 220mm rear disc.
Wheels and Tyres: 90/90-21 Dunlop EN91 FIM Enduro DOT front and 140/80-18 Dunlop EN91 FIM Enduro DOT rear, spoked alloy wheels.

Dimensions:
Wheelbase: 1470mm
Seat height: 955mm
Overall height: 1265mm
Overall width: 825mm
Overall length: 2170mm
Ground clearance: 330mm

Instruments & Electronics: Yamaha Power Tuner App with Quick Setting, Traction Control, Launch Control and ECU-lock functions. Other: Electric start, lightweight lithium-ion battery, aluminium tapered handlebar, four-position adjustable rubber-mounted handlebar mounts. Australian-delivered models feature full ADR equipment for road registration, including indicators, rear-view mirrors, horn, handguards and more.

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