2014 YAMAHA YZ450F

Yamaha has been under fire ever since it went anti status quo with its YZ450F engine and chassis configuration in 2010. Believing in the benefits of centralized mass, the engineers relocated the engine, pushed the fuel tank lower and farther back, and added a serpentine exhaust system, fuel injection and other design elements that pushed the norm. Some thought the innovations worked; others simply found the bike odd.
For 2014, Yamaha remained committed to the centralized-mass theory, but changed just about every other facet of the machine. The bike has a new frame, new engine, new suspension, new intake, new exhaust and a more-compact chassis—all in pursuit of more power, better handling and a lighter feel. Here are the crucial changes Yamaha made to the 2014 Yamaha YZ450F.

An all-new cylinder-head assembly and valve system are highlighted by a modified intake and exhaust port. The intake and exhaust valves are larger, and the intake cam is new for increased power and tractability

Yamaha switched from a dry-sump engine with a remote oil tank to a wet-sump design that requires less oil, weighs less and is easier to maintain.

An all-new exhaust system has three different diameters and is said to increase power throughout the range.

Yamaha’s engineers worked hard to improve the handling of the centralized-mass design, creating a new subframe and a new center-mount fuel tank that holds 7.5 liters rather than the previous 6.2 liters. The changes make the bike feel lighter and easier to control.

The new airbox is larger, and the filter has a more traditional design (it’s no longer flat). Also, the intake is quieter.

The new chassis is said to give the YZ a different weight bias.

The gas cap is now hidden under the front of the seat.