2012 YAMAHA WR450F
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2012 Yamaha WR450F Review
• A reliable performer.
• The most powerful, sharp handling, nimble WR ever.
• The new 2012 Yamaha WR450F features a number of changes that significantly improve its engine performance and handling. The new Keihin fuel injection system provides instant throttle response and a smoother power delivery while the new compact Bilateral Beam frame provides incredibly light handling and quicker direction changes.
• You might not know where the trail will take you, but with the new WR450F, you know that you'll get there and back … in a hurry !
• Yamaha's new WR450F is ready to tame the roughest woods section or attack a Hare Scrambles course with its all new YZ based 48mm Speed Sensitive System fork and KYB piggyback shock. And the YZ connection does not stop there, the new YZ250F inspired bodywork means fast, easy rider movements, while the YZ based brakes with wave -style rotors are poised to stop things in a hurry.
• Other bikes, please move to the rear.
• The new 2012 Yamaha WR450F features a powerful and reliable highly evolved high revving five-titanium-value engine. YZ bred advanced aluminum frame, push button start, and digital enduro race computer with speedometer, clock, and trip meter. The 2012 Yamaha WR450F is also green sticker approved for California.
2012 Yamaha WR450F Highlights and Key Features:
• Fuel injected, 5-valve, 449cc powerplant
• Compact Bilateral Beam aluminum frame
Key Features:
• A YZ-bred advanced aluminum frame—carefully engineered from castings, forgings and extrusions—enhances handling while retaining legendary Yamaha feel and characteristics.
• Highly evolved five-titanium-valved engine starts with the push of a button.
• Cool digital enduro computer offers speedometer, clock, tripmeter, etc., in basic mode—or pace management functions such as timer, distance-compensating tripmeter, average speed, etc., when switched to race mode.
• The WR450F is green sticker approved for California.
2012 Yamaha WR450F Features and Benefits
ENGINE
New, fuel injected, liquid-cooled, 449cc, DOHC, 5-valve, 4-stroke powerplant with super light titanium valves. Selected items such as camshafts, exhaust and ECU settings are specially designed for enduro type riding.
Super convenient electric starting means fast, sure starts and is backed up by a manual kick starter.
Hassle free automatic decompression system ensures fast restarts in any gear.
Convenient, handlebar-mounted hot start lever for easy restarts when the engine is hot.
Magnesium cylinder head cover helps reduce weight.
Optimized cylinder inclination angle (4.5 degrees) to centralize mass and bring the center of gravity closer to the rider for mass centralization and light handling.
Optimized intake port shape increases the velocity of the incoming charge for more complete cylinder filling and more power.
Titanium valves and load-reduced springs decrease 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.
The lightweight aluminum cylinder features a ceramic composite coating which is applied directly to the aluminum, eliminating the need for a heavy iron sleeve. The ceramic coating insures faster, more uniform heat dissipation, reduced friction and a longer service life.
Cylinder design features cutaways that allow the air trapped under the piston to enter a side chamber (or cutaway) to reduce horsepower-robbing "pumping losses."
The crankcase also utilizes cutaways to reduce "pumping losses." The crankcase cutaways match the cutaways in the cylinder.
Crankcase design features an integrated dry sump oil tank inside the front area of the engine cases. This design centralizes mass and reduces the centre of gravity for improved handing and a lighter feel.
The crankcases features a "tri-axis" design layout for the crankshaft, main and drive axles. This tri-axis design keeps the crankcases more compact while also centralizing mass for better handling. All of the shafts are positioned as low as possible in the cases to maintain a low centre of gravity.
Special cam shaft profiles provide outstanding low to mid range power well suited to enduro style riding. The WR450F offers a wide spread of linear torque from low to peak rpms.
Revised ball bearing style lightweight crankshaft provides fast throttle response.
New connecting rod design features a wider big end bearing
Revised balancer shaft optimizes vibration for excellent rider comfort and reduced fatigue during long rides.
Lightweight, short-skirt, forged piston offers great durability and reduced weight for fast engine response.
Piston oil cooler utilizes a pinpoint nozzle that directs oil to the desired portion of the cylinder and piston, to reduce piston, cylinder and rod temperatures for excellent durability.
Oil volume in engine has been optimized to reduce weight and oil "drag" related power losses.
Compact automatic cam chain tensioner reduces maintenance and mechanical engine noise.
All new Keihin throttle body fuel injection system. This is an open loop system and features a throttle position sensor (TPS).
The 10-hole fuel injector maximizes fuel atomization for more complete combustion and great power output.
The benefits of fuel injection include optimum fuel - air ratio regardless of outside air temperature or altitude. Other benefits include excellent starting with no choke to fuss with, improved throttle response, reduced fuel consumption and reduced emissions. There is a conveniently located idle adjusting knob on the side of the throttle body.
Optional, compact, hand held "YZ Power Tuner" allows tailoring of both fuel injection settings and ignition mapping. Nine (9) different setting points can be accessed for both the FI and ignition maps. Maps can be stored and shared with other Power Tuners if desired. Easy access plug-in port located near the left hand side cover of the WR450F.
Compact, lightweight in-tank electric fuel pump
High capacity ACM (alternating current magneto) is used to power the FI system and other electrical components
Lightweight, compact, high powered 32 bit ECU. The ECU controls the fuel injection process and ignition timing.
Lightweight direct ignition coil is integrated into the spark plug cap to reduce weight and complexity
Wide ratio 5-speed transmission features gear ratios designed for enduro type riding and that match the torquey, linear, engine power characteristics of the WR450F engine.
Heavy-duty multi plate wet clutch.
Quick-access, lightweight magnesium outer clutch cover allows fast, easy access to the clutch.
New design, lightweight dual radiators feature wider cores than the previous generation. Cooling efficiency is increased by 5%. Special design louvers direct cooling air into the rads for maximum cooling.
Washable, dual-stage, foam air filter can be accessed without tools via "Dzus-type" fasteners.
Revised, lightweight exhaust system features a stainless steel header pipe with titanium heat shield and an aluminum muffler. The exhaust features a resonator canister which helps create a more efficient exhaust pulse effect for improved low to mid power.
Lightweight aluminum muffler features a "serviceable", screen-type spark arrestor which prevents sparks from exiting the exhaust.
Oversize race-type "barrel adjuster" for easy, on-the-fly adjustability of clutch
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION
All new, compact "Bilateral Beam" aluminum frame centralizes mass for exceptional handling and incredible cornering ability. This frame consists of forged, extruded and panel aluminum parts. This frame is more compact than the last generation and offers significantly improved rider - machine communication" (a.k.a. feedback).
The rigidity balance of this "Bilateral beam" frame has been optimized for enduro type riding. It contributes to a feeling of lightness, agility and traction.
The head pipe (steering head), wheelbase, caster and trail dimensions are optimized to accentuate the engine and frame characteristics. The benefit is quick, direction changes with good stability.
Removable rear sub frame is constructed of square-section, lightweight aluminum pipe. Its detachable design allows easy access when servicing rear suspension components.
Lightweight, tapered, aluminum swingarm is produced using "hydro forming", a special method that uses high pressure water to form shapes. The swingarm design provides great overall chassis "balance" for precise cornering and a light handling feel.
New, 48mm, adjustable inverted, Kayaba cartridge fork provide excellent suspension performance. This fork is based on the current YZ series with different setting specifically for enduro type riding. These forks feature a twin-chamber design which means the damper unit is in a separate structure which prevents aerated fork oil from entering the inner damper assembly and reducing its damping abilities. Since the inner damper is pressurized, it also eliminates bubbles forming in the oil. This fork design also features a Transfer Control Valve (TCV). The TCV enhances the damping force from mid to full stroke and improves bottoming characteristics. The benefit of TCV is more precise control throughout the full suspension stroke. The TCV is located on the upside of the spring and its function is controlled by piston speed, not piston position … hence the term "Speed Sensitive fork".
Front wheel travel is 300mm (11.8").
Front fork adjustments include: 20-way compression damping and 20-way rebound damping. Optional fork springs are available through Genuine Yamaha parts.
Large plastic fork protectors wrap around the fork tubes for increased protection against dirt, mud and stone chips. These fork protectors are self-supporting to reduce friction for smoother fork operation.
Cast aluminum upper and forged aluminum lower triples clamp reduce weight while providing excellent strength.
Adjustable forged handlebar mounts allow the handlebars to be moved 10mm rearward if desired.
High tech, lightweight, ProTaper aluminum handlebar with reinforcing crossbar and foam pad.
Monocross rear suspension system features a fully adjustable, Kayaba piggy back style shock with separate adjusters for high- and low-speed compression damping. Rear wheel travel is 294mm (11.6").
Shock adjustments include: spring preload, 20 clicks of low-speed compression damping, 2 turns of high-speed compression damping and 20 clicks of rebound damping.
Link-type rear suspension provides a rising rate (progressive) suspension function. The linkage design is virtually the same as YZ-F series of MX bikes.
250mm fully floating front disc brake with "wave style" rotor is squeezed by a twin piston Nissin caliper fitted with lightweight, aluminum pistons provides excellent braking performance.
"Shorty style" adjustable front brake lever
245mm rear disc brake with lightweight wave style rotor is squeezed by a compact single piston Nissin caliper. The rear master cylinder is an integrated design (fluid reservoir is integrated into the top of the master cylinder to reduce weight) and delivers strong, progressive stopping power with excellent control and feel.
Rugged, Excel 21" front and 18" rear rims provide exceptional durability and help reduce unsprung weight for optimal suspension performance.
High tech, lightweight digital meter assembly. This compact 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.
All new YZ250F inspired body work. This "slim line" bodywork allows fast, easy rider movements and a lighter overall machine feel.
Revised seat design features a foam change and a narrower design for excellent comfort and rider manouerability
Stylish slim design front headlight is compact and offers 35 watts of lighting power. The headlight beam is adjustable up and down.
Slim design compact LED taillight is tucked out of the way to prevent damage
7.5 litre black plastic fuel tank is designed to allow easy rider movements. The tank features a special "fluorination surface treatment" which reduces fuel permeation for improved environmental protection.
Lightweight aluminum kickstand is designed to allow lots of ground clearance.
Heavy duty one piece resin plastic engine guard. Only 3 bolts hold it in place for easy removal when washing the bike.
Extra wide 55mm stainless steel foot pegs provide excellent grip.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS / FEATURES
• New low fuel warning light on main on / off ignition switch
• Tapered steering head bearings for durability
• 7.5 litre fuel tank with convenient on/off/reserve petcock for peace of mind
• Serrated rear brake lever and folding shift lever tip
• Rugged, plastic, lower rear disc and rear caliper protectors
• Sealed, low-maintenance battery is gel-filled type to prevent leaks in the event of a tip-over.
• Waterproof starter button and engine kill switch are handlebar-mounted.
• Lightweight chain guide / support helps reduce chance of chain derailment. Also helps protect rear sprocket damage too.
• Heavy duty "O" ring chain for durability
Specifications/Technical Details
MSRP* $7,650 (Team Yamaha Blue/White)
ENGINE
Type 449cc liquid-cooled DOHC 4-stroke; 5 titanium valves
Bore x Stroke 95.0mm x 63.4mm
Compression Ratio 12.3:1
Fuel Delivery Keihin® FCR 39
Ignition CDI
Transmission Constant-mesh 5-speed; multiplate wet clutch
Final Drive Chain Drive
CHASSIS
Suspension / Front Inverted fork; fully adjustable, 11.8-in travel
Suspension / Rear Single shock; fully adjustable, 12-in travel
Brakes / Front Hydraulic single disc brake, 250mm
Brakes / Rear Hydraulic single disc brake, 245mm
Tires / Front 80/100-21 51M
Tires / Rear 110/100-18 64M
DIMENSIONS
Length 85.6 in
Width 32.5 in
Height 51.2 in
Seat Height 38.6 in
Wheelbase 58.5 in
Ground Clearance 14.4 in
Fuel Capacity 2.1 gal
Wet Weight*** 267 lb
OTHER
Warranty 30 Day (Limited Factory Warranty)
• A reliable performer.
• The most powerful, sharp handling, nimble WR ever.
• The new 2012 Yamaha WR450F features a number of changes that significantly improve its engine performance and handling. The new Keihin fuel injection system provides instant throttle response and a smoother power delivery while the new compact Bilateral Beam frame provides incredibly light handling and quicker direction changes.
• You might not know where the trail will take you, but with the new WR450F, you know that you'll get there and back … in a hurry !
• Yamaha's new WR450F is ready to tame the roughest woods section or attack a Hare Scrambles course with its all new YZ based 48mm Speed Sensitive System fork and KYB piggyback shock. And the YZ connection does not stop there, the new YZ250F inspired bodywork means fast, easy rider movements, while the YZ based brakes with wave -style rotors are poised to stop things in a hurry.
• Other bikes, please move to the rear.
• The new 2012 Yamaha WR450F features a powerful and reliable highly evolved high revving five-titanium-value engine. YZ bred advanced aluminum frame, push button start, and digital enduro race computer with speedometer, clock, and trip meter. The 2012 Yamaha WR450F is also green sticker approved for California.
2012 Yamaha WR450F Highlights and Key Features:
• Fuel injected, 5-valve, 449cc powerplant
• Compact Bilateral Beam aluminum frame
Key Features:
• A YZ-bred advanced aluminum frame—carefully engineered from castings, forgings and extrusions—enhances handling while retaining legendary Yamaha feel and characteristics.
• Highly evolved five-titanium-valved engine starts with the push of a button.
• Cool digital enduro computer offers speedometer, clock, tripmeter, etc., in basic mode—or pace management functions such as timer, distance-compensating tripmeter, average speed, etc., when switched to race mode.
• The WR450F is green sticker approved for California.
2012 Yamaha WR450F Features and Benefits
ENGINE
New, fuel injected, liquid-cooled, 449cc, DOHC, 5-valve, 4-stroke powerplant with super light titanium valves. Selected items such as camshafts, exhaust and ECU settings are specially designed for enduro type riding.
Super convenient electric starting means fast, sure starts and is backed up by a manual kick starter.
Hassle free automatic decompression system ensures fast restarts in any gear.
Convenient, handlebar-mounted hot start lever for easy restarts when the engine is hot.
Magnesium cylinder head cover helps reduce weight.
Optimized cylinder inclination angle (4.5 degrees) to centralize mass and bring the center of gravity closer to the rider for mass centralization and light handling.
Optimized intake port shape increases the velocity of the incoming charge for more complete cylinder filling and more power.
Titanium valves and load-reduced springs decrease 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.
The lightweight aluminum cylinder features a ceramic composite coating which is applied directly to the aluminum, eliminating the need for a heavy iron sleeve. The ceramic coating insures faster, more uniform heat dissipation, reduced friction and a longer service life.
Cylinder design features cutaways that allow the air trapped under the piston to enter a side chamber (or cutaway) to reduce horsepower-robbing "pumping losses."
The crankcase also utilizes cutaways to reduce "pumping losses." The crankcase cutaways match the cutaways in the cylinder.
Crankcase design features an integrated dry sump oil tank inside the front area of the engine cases. This design centralizes mass and reduces the centre of gravity for improved handing and a lighter feel.
The crankcases features a "tri-axis" design layout for the crankshaft, main and drive axles. This tri-axis design keeps the crankcases more compact while also centralizing mass for better handling. All of the shafts are positioned as low as possible in the cases to maintain a low centre of gravity.
Special cam shaft profiles provide outstanding low to mid range power well suited to enduro style riding. The WR450F offers a wide spread of linear torque from low to peak rpms.
Revised ball bearing style lightweight crankshaft provides fast throttle response.
New connecting rod design features a wider big end bearing
Revised balancer shaft optimizes vibration for excellent rider comfort and reduced fatigue during long rides.
Lightweight, short-skirt, forged piston offers great durability and reduced weight for fast engine response.
Piston oil cooler utilizes a pinpoint nozzle that directs oil to the desired portion of the cylinder and piston, to reduce piston, cylinder and rod temperatures for excellent durability.
Oil volume in engine has been optimized to reduce weight and oil "drag" related power losses.
Compact automatic cam chain tensioner reduces maintenance and mechanical engine noise.
All new Keihin throttle body fuel injection system. This is an open loop system and features a throttle position sensor (TPS).
The 10-hole fuel injector maximizes fuel atomization for more complete combustion and great power output.
The benefits of fuel injection include optimum fuel - air ratio regardless of outside air temperature or altitude. Other benefits include excellent starting with no choke to fuss with, improved throttle response, reduced fuel consumption and reduced emissions. There is a conveniently located idle adjusting knob on the side of the throttle body.
Optional, compact, hand held "YZ Power Tuner" allows tailoring of both fuel injection settings and ignition mapping. Nine (9) different setting points can be accessed for both the FI and ignition maps. Maps can be stored and shared with other Power Tuners if desired. Easy access plug-in port located near the left hand side cover of the WR450F.
Compact, lightweight in-tank electric fuel pump
High capacity ACM (alternating current magneto) is used to power the FI system and other electrical components
Lightweight, compact, high powered 32 bit ECU. The ECU controls the fuel injection process and ignition timing.
Lightweight direct ignition coil is integrated into the spark plug cap to reduce weight and complexity
Wide ratio 5-speed transmission features gear ratios designed for enduro type riding and that match the torquey, linear, engine power characteristics of the WR450F engine.
Heavy-duty multi plate wet clutch.
Quick-access, lightweight magnesium outer clutch cover allows fast, easy access to the clutch.
New design, lightweight dual radiators feature wider cores than the previous generation. Cooling efficiency is increased by 5%. Special design louvers direct cooling air into the rads for maximum cooling.
Washable, dual-stage, foam air filter can be accessed without tools via "Dzus-type" fasteners.
Revised, lightweight exhaust system features a stainless steel header pipe with titanium heat shield and an aluminum muffler. The exhaust features a resonator canister which helps create a more efficient exhaust pulse effect for improved low to mid power.
Lightweight aluminum muffler features a "serviceable", screen-type spark arrestor which prevents sparks from exiting the exhaust.
Oversize race-type "barrel adjuster" for easy, on-the-fly adjustability of clutch
CHASSIS / SUSPENSION
All new, compact "Bilateral Beam" aluminum frame centralizes mass for exceptional handling and incredible cornering ability. This frame consists of forged, extruded and panel aluminum parts. This frame is more compact than the last generation and offers significantly improved rider - machine communication" (a.k.a. feedback).
The rigidity balance of this "Bilateral beam" frame has been optimized for enduro type riding. It contributes to a feeling of lightness, agility and traction.
The head pipe (steering head), wheelbase, caster and trail dimensions are optimized to accentuate the engine and frame characteristics. The benefit is quick, direction changes with good stability.
Removable rear sub frame is constructed of square-section, lightweight aluminum pipe. Its detachable design allows easy access when servicing rear suspension components.
Lightweight, tapered, aluminum swingarm is produced using "hydro forming", a special method that uses high pressure water to form shapes. The swingarm design provides great overall chassis "balance" for precise cornering and a light handling feel.
New, 48mm, adjustable inverted, Kayaba cartridge fork provide excellent suspension performance. This fork is based on the current YZ series with different setting specifically for enduro type riding. These forks feature a twin-chamber design which means the damper unit is in a separate structure which prevents aerated fork oil from entering the inner damper assembly and reducing its damping abilities. Since the inner damper is pressurized, it also eliminates bubbles forming in the oil. This fork design also features a Transfer Control Valve (TCV). The TCV enhances the damping force from mid to full stroke and improves bottoming characteristics. The benefit of TCV is more precise control throughout the full suspension stroke. The TCV is located on the upside of the spring and its function is controlled by piston speed, not piston position … hence the term "Speed Sensitive fork".
Front wheel travel is 300mm (11.8").
Front fork adjustments include: 20-way compression damping and 20-way rebound damping. Optional fork springs are available through Genuine Yamaha parts.
Large plastic fork protectors wrap around the fork tubes for increased protection against dirt, mud and stone chips. These fork protectors are self-supporting to reduce friction for smoother fork operation.
Cast aluminum upper and forged aluminum lower triples clamp reduce weight while providing excellent strength.
Adjustable forged handlebar mounts allow the handlebars to be moved 10mm rearward if desired.
High tech, lightweight, ProTaper aluminum handlebar with reinforcing crossbar and foam pad.
Monocross rear suspension system features a fully adjustable, Kayaba piggy back style shock with separate adjusters for high- and low-speed compression damping. Rear wheel travel is 294mm (11.6").
Shock adjustments include: spring preload, 20 clicks of low-speed compression damping, 2 turns of high-speed compression damping and 20 clicks of rebound damping.
Link-type rear suspension provides a rising rate (progressive) suspension function. The linkage design is virtually the same as YZ-F series of MX bikes.
250mm fully floating front disc brake with "wave style" rotor is squeezed by a twin piston Nissin caliper fitted with lightweight, aluminum pistons provides excellent braking performance.
"Shorty style" adjustable front brake lever
245mm rear disc brake with lightweight wave style rotor is squeezed by a compact single piston Nissin caliper. The rear master cylinder is an integrated design (fluid reservoir is integrated into the top of the master cylinder to reduce weight) and delivers strong, progressive stopping power with excellent control and feel.
Rugged, Excel 21" front and 18" rear rims provide exceptional durability and help reduce unsprung weight for optimal suspension performance.
High tech, lightweight digital meter assembly. This compact 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.
All new YZ250F inspired body work. This "slim line" bodywork allows fast, easy rider movements and a lighter overall machine feel.
Revised seat design features a foam change and a narrower design for excellent comfort and rider manouerability
Stylish slim design front headlight is compact and offers 35 watts of lighting power. The headlight beam is adjustable up and down.
Slim design compact LED taillight is tucked out of the way to prevent damage
7.5 litre black plastic fuel tank is designed to allow easy rider movements. The tank features a special "fluorination surface treatment" which reduces fuel permeation for improved environmental protection.
Lightweight aluminum kickstand is designed to allow lots of ground clearance.
Heavy duty one piece resin plastic engine guard. Only 3 bolts hold it in place for easy removal when washing the bike.
Extra wide 55mm stainless steel foot pegs provide excellent grip.
ADDITIONAL DETAILS / FEATURES
• New low fuel warning light on main on / off ignition switch
• Tapered steering head bearings for durability
• 7.5 litre fuel tank with convenient on/off/reserve petcock for peace of mind
• Serrated rear brake lever and folding shift lever tip
• Rugged, plastic, lower rear disc and rear caliper protectors
• Sealed, low-maintenance battery is gel-filled type to prevent leaks in the event of a tip-over.
• Waterproof starter button and engine kill switch are handlebar-mounted.
• Lightweight chain guide / support helps reduce chance of chain derailment. Also helps protect rear sprocket damage too.
• Heavy duty "O" ring chain for durability
Specifications/Technical Details
MSRP* $7,650 (Team Yamaha Blue/White)
ENGINE
Type 449cc liquid-cooled DOHC 4-stroke; 5 titanium valves
Bore x Stroke 95.0mm x 63.4mm
Compression Ratio 12.3:1
Fuel Delivery Keihin® FCR 39
Ignition CDI
Transmission Constant-mesh 5-speed; multiplate wet clutch
Final Drive Chain Drive
CHASSIS
Suspension / Front Inverted fork; fully adjustable, 11.8-in travel
Suspension / Rear Single shock; fully adjustable, 12-in travel
Brakes / Front Hydraulic single disc brake, 250mm
Brakes / Rear Hydraulic single disc brake, 245mm
Tires / Front 80/100-21 51M
Tires / Rear 110/100-18 64M
DIMENSIONS
Length 85.6 in
Width 32.5 in
Height 51.2 in
Seat Height 38.6 in
Wheelbase 58.5 in
Ground Clearance 14.4 in
Fuel Capacity 2.1 gal
Wet Weight*** 267 lb
OTHER
Warranty 30 Day (Limited Factory Warranty)
