In addition to the new engine, the 2024 WR450F also receives a newer and more compact clutch. According to Team Blue, it has been optimized to provide a lighter feel in operation, as well as to offer a more positive engagement point. These are the kind of features that seem great on paper, but the real test is always in how riders feel when they put them into practice.
Yamaha has also worked to lower the center of gravity of the 2024 WR450F by moving the head tube joint in the frame 15 millimeters down. Both stiffness and flex characteristics were carefully considered and implemented in the frame design, and the compact fuel tank and shorter silencer also help in the seemingly endless pursuit of mass centralization.
The 2024 Yamaha WR450F also receives a completely new KYB suspension. It offers 300 mm of suspension travel in the front and 306 mm of travel in the rear shock, and also includes compression damping adjustment on the fork without the need for tools.
Yamaha also focused on mass centralization and weight reduction in some of its other choices. Weight reduction was key everywhere, including in the rear wheel axle, the rear braking system (which is the same as found on the YZ450F), the lithium-ion battery, and other lighter components. In total, Yamaha says it managed to save an additional 4 kg from the weight of the previous version of the WR450F.
Other news include a new airflow management system with the fairing, resulting in 50 mm narrower protections; a flatter seat with rounded edges to facilitate the rider’s movements; new protection plate; new switches on the left side controls; new multifunction meter; new rear fender; and renewed and stronger fork seals.
For more information, you can visit the official Yamaha website.
