Yamaha announce the all-new, reworked 2021 WR450F

Development input by a range of Aussie enduro riders over the years is one reason the WR450F allegedly continues to outsell its competition. Continual updates based on the equally successful YZ450F MX weapon is another. And for 2021, the WR450F has been fully reworked.

Yamaha say more power and sharper handling are the result. To create an enduro bike with the flexibility to tackle tough trails and win races, the YZ platform has been extensively tested and tuned with enduro specific settings.

Using the 2020 model YZ450F as a starting point, Yamaha’s experienced development team – including Kiwi race team manager and Yamaha legend Josh Coppins – came up with an enduro bike that they claim turns, stops and goes better than ever before. They also state the 2021 WR450F produces bulk power but transmits that power to the ground in a more controllable manner with additional traction at both wheels.

Pricing is set at $15,499 inc GST ride away including 12 months registration, with availability due for December 2020.

Sporting a new aluminium bilateral beam frame, the WR450F is claimed to feel lighter, be easier to turn in tight situations and have improved stability both in the bumps and in the air. Yamaha say progressive, smooth KYB suspension continues to absorb big impacts and the braking performance is now improved.

The 2021 WR450F is designed to appeal too anyone, from professional enduro riders to super capable trail riders. The new model comes in the new Team Yamaha Blue colour scheme that echoes its YZ and FX cousins in the ‘VictorYZone’.

Pricing is set at $15,499 inc GST ride away including 12 months registration, with availability due for December 2020.

New colour for 2021
Both the WR450F and WR250F feature the new-look Team Yamaha Blue colour scheme and graphics that feature in other models in the 2021 range. The MY21 WR250F is unchanged from MY20 apart from the new colour and graphics.

Both WR450F and WR250F feature the new-look Team Yamaha Blue colour scheme and graphics for 2021.

2021 WR450F design goals

Lighter balance with added manoeuvrability
Easier cornering in tight situations
Improved front end traction – initial turn-in and line maintenance mid-corner
Stronger, more progressive braking
Added stability both in bumps and in the air
Progressive, smooth suspension action with ability to absorb big impacts
Easier to control, progressive power
Strong and longer pulling power while maintaining traction

Yamaha say progressive, smooth KYB suspension on the WR450F continues to absorb big impacts.

2021 WR450F features and benefits

New YZ450F based, forward-positioned, straight intake, rearward-inclined cylinder and rear exhaust port engine format for powerful output
Smartphone tuning
Bar-mounted engine map switch
Lightweight electric starter motor
Tool-free airbox access
Tougher five speed gearbox with model-specific clutch featuring heat-resistant friction plates
New controlled fill aluminium bilateral beam frame tuned for enduro
Industry leading KYB speed sensitive forks and shock absorber tuned for enduro
Lighter, more powerful brakes
New compact instrument display with fuel consumption indicator
New lighter footpegs
Lighter and stronger front axle shaft, top triple clamp, handlebar clamps – from YZ450F
Large plastic engine guard
Large capacity radiator and cooling fan
18in rear wheel designed for excellent performance in enduro riding and wide tyre choice
Four-position adjustable handlebars
Sealed chain
7.9-litre plastic fuel tank and compact fuel pump
Forged aluminium kickstand sits close to the bike
Meets global emissions standards
Sold fully ADR compliant and road legal in AUS and comes with free off-road kit for closed course competition use

Australian off-road kit
All WR450Fs come with full ADR compliance and so can be road registered to ride in Australian state forests where permitted. Each bike also comes with a free off-road kit for closed course competition use which includes: