2011 Yamaha Off Road Bike Range

Within this range there is a great cross-section of bikes, with powerful racers through to beginners dirt bikes for the kids. One unifying element across the Yamaha range is a common DNA thread, which ensures that no matter what bike you chose it has been built meticulously, thoroughly tested and incorporates a host of control technologies suitable for the model.

Enduro - WR450F

Yamaha have just released their latest enduro weapon, the 2012 WR450F.

Since its introduction as the WR400F in 1999, it has been tweaked in 2003 with a 450cc engine, once in 2005 with a new frame and again in 2007 with a new aluminium frame. For 2012 Yamaha is claiming the biggest change to the model since the introduction of the WR400F, with the model fully overhauled to target the fast trail rider and expert enduro rider - the goal being to improve handling in the tight stuff while striving for more linear and manageable power. Yamaha say the former has been achieved with the development of a new aluminium bilateral beam frame that has enduro specific dimensions and rigidity balance which includes different engine mounts and a new mounting position for the subframe, which itself is comprised of a new aluminium alloy.
The result is that the new WR450F has a light feel, amazing front wheel grip, superb rear wheel traction and improved steering.

To complement the new frame, new YZ-inspired twin chamber suspension is fitted front and rear to soak up the harsh terrain that fast trail and competition enduro riders encounter. Once again, the suspension is specially enduro tuned by combining the ability to absorb big hits with a softer initial travel to tackle tight turns.
In order to offer stable engine performance irrespective of fluctuations in air temperature or altitude, a fuel injection system has been adopted. This can easily be adjusted with a hand held, portable Power Tuner device, the same unit that has proven so popular with YZ450F owners.
The 450cc engine has been specifically designed to meet the requirements of the new FI system and chassis changes. It retains its liquid cooled, five titanium valve, single cylinder layout. A special cam profile has been developed to suit enduro RPM use while the five-speed gearbox has ratios suitable to cover a wide range of riding environments.

The engine is fitted with an exhaust pipe with a built-in resonator, which is designed to improve power output in the low to mid speed range. In addition, the radiator is all new with a wider core, increased reliability and more shock resistance than previously.

There are a host of more minor changes that while small are still important. These include an enduro specific seat with new cover, a slim new plastic resin 7.2-litre fuel tank, a fuel level warning light and a new look with black Excel rims, a new headlight cover, side covers and graphics.

The new WRF will go on sale in early 2012 fully equipped to ADR requirement. A competition enduro kit will also be offered for those wishing to indulge in closed course riding or racing.
Full details on the model will be released at the Sydney Motorcycle Expo, Darling Harbour Convention Centre, starting November 25th.

MX Competition models

Yamaha took a calculated gamble introducing the YZ450F, with its back-to-front engine layout a big departure from traditional configurations. Notwithstanding, it has amply proven itself, with Team CDR Rockstar Yamaha rider Jay Marmont winning his third Australian MX title on the trot.

Now Yamaha has released the all-new 2012 model YZ250F, with the model now in showrooms featuring a revised frame, engine and suspension in a lightweight, sharp handling package.

Yamaha's YZ250F retains its carburettor design, which is one of the main reasons for this model keeping its status as the lightest bike in the 250cc class. However, the carb size has been beefed up to 39mm and the optimised engine pumps out more power in the 8000 to 12000 rpm range.

There are extensive engine modifications, including a larger 39mm carburettor, new crankshaft webs, a new vibration-reducing counter balancer, new connecting rod, and low-friction piston rings - as well as a new piston, piston pin, and clip assembly. To take full advantage of these advancements, there's also a new CDI mapping and the bigger carb breathes freer thanks to a larger air-cleaner cage.

The new-for-2012 bilateral beam frame has revised rigidity balance for superior cornering performance as well as great stability on rough, high-speed straights. New front KYB suspension components, plus revised rear shock internals and more rigidity in the swingarm axle block area, give this new machine a serious handling advantage with light, quick steering and zero headshake.

The tank, seat and rear fender are flat and the relationship between handlebars, pegs and seat results in a natural, more forward riding position that facilitates rider movement. The fuel tank is placed toward the centre of the bike for mass centralisation.

Best of all the 2012 model remains at the same price as the outgoing 2011 YZ250F.


2011 Yamaha off-road models

Enduro - WR450F, WR250F
MX Competition - YZ450F, YZ250F, YZ250, YZ125, YZ85LW, YZ85
Trail - XT250, TT-R250, TT-R230, TT-R125LWE, TT-R125E
Adventure - Super Tenere, XT660R, Tenere, WR250R
Fun - TT-R110E, PW80, TT-R50E, PW50
Agricultural - AG200E, AG100