Cycle News Staff | June 16, 2019
Yamaha revealed its 2020 line of motocross bikes and returning models include the YZ65, YZ85, YZ125, and YZ250 two-strokes, and the YZ250F and YZ450F four-strokes. The real news here is the YZ450F because it takes on several updates. The others are unchanged.
Yamaha says the YZ450F been redesigned to provide a lighter, more powerful, and better handling “motocross experience.” The new 449cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, electric start engine features an all-new compact cylinder head with redesigned combustion chamber shape, steeper valve angles, and more aggressive cam profiles. The reward-slanted cylinder houses a higher compression piston with low friction rings attached to a longer connecting rod. The transmission has been refined to provide smoother shifting, and a more efficient crank breather system has been adopted to decrease pumping losses. In all, Yamaha claims the lighter and more compact engine produces increased power across the entire RPM range for stronger and more linear pulling power.
The aluminum bilateral beam frame has been redesigned with all-new flex characteristics to provide improved cornering performance, traction, and bump reaction. Other chassis changes include new engine mounts, top triple clamp, and front axle. It also has a newly designed front brake caliper, brake pads, and front and rear disc.
The 2020 YZ450F, which will be available in July, will be available in Team Yamaha Blue, and Gray with an MSRP of $9299.
2020 Yamaha YZ125X
Yamaha’s cross-country range of dirt bikes just got bigger. Joining the YZ250FX and YZ450FX four-strokes, and the YZ250X two-stroke for 2020 is an all-new model, the YZ125X.
The YZ12X is an offshoot of the YZ125 motocrosser but tuned for hare scrambles and GNCC-style racing.
Yamaha says that cross-country performance of the YZ125X is optimized with model specific digital CDI ignition settings, new power valve shape, open timing, open duration, as well as a new cylinder head combustion chamber shape, all of which are focused on creating broad power delivery that are designed to suit off-road terrain and a wide range of rider skill levels.
Opposed to the YZ125, the YZ125X gets a sealed O-ring chain, a standard side stand, and fuel tank petcock with reserve position. Its KYB suspension is also tuned specifically for cross-country racing. Enduro-specific Dunlop Geomax AT81 tires with an 18-inch rear wheel are also fitted, as well.
The all-new 2020 YZ125X will be available in June in Team Yamaha Blue colors for $6699 MSRP. CN