Yamaha WR450

The WR450F is Yamaha's big-bore enduro weapon of choice. Grandson of the mighty WR400F of the late 1990s, the 450 is a sophisticated member of the 450 enduro club that has one trump card up its sleeve. And that would be its electric starter. Anybody who has ever tried to kick a waterlogged, muddy bike that they've just stalled in a bog-hole will know what a life-changing thing an electric leg can be. And Yamaha knows it too. Loosely based on Yamaha's YZ motocrosser line-up, the WR series is a much more day-to-day proposition including a four-stroke engine and, since 2003, that all-important `start' button. The 450 has been brand Y's biggest enduro seller for a while now and it's pretty easy to see why.

Standard Specifications

Make: Yamaha
Model: WR450F
Years: 2003 - current
Engine size: 450cc
Fuel system: carburettor
Drive: chain
Standard transmission: 5-speed

On the road

If you're moving up from a Yamaha WR426 to the newer 450, it's a bit tempting to think that it'll simply be more of the same. But that isn't the whole story. Recognising that rideability was important to enduro-bike buyers, Yamaha tamed the 450's power delivery to be a bit more progressive. So, while the 426 came on a bit like a two-stroke, the 450 is a more mellow operator. It's still fast, though, so don't worry about not being able to keep up with the boys.

In deference to its dual-role nature, the WR450 was also tuned to be smooth enough to take on extended bitumen jaunts as a means of getting to the bush tracks without relying on a trailer.

Ergonomics are good with a thinner tank than before and a more roomy riding position. All up, a very resolved piece of equipment.

What to look for when buying a used Yamaha WR450F

If the WR450 you're looking at is to be used on the road, you need to make sure all the bits and pieces needed for registration are present and accounted for. It's amazing how the smallest of drops can take out indicator lights and instruments, but you'll need all these things for rego.

Bigger crashes can also take their toll on the frame, too, and since the WR used a high-tensile steel frame from 2003 onwards, it's worth checking that it's all straight and true.

While you're down there, check the usual stuff like the chain and sprockets, brake pads and tyres. Yes, they're all consumables but replacing them all in one hit won't be cheap.