Yamaha WR450F [2019-2020]: A Legacy Refined for the Dirt

When Yamaha unveiled the 2019 WR450F, it wasn’t just an update—it was a reimagining of what a modern enduro machine could be. Built on the backbone of the championship-winning YZ450F motocross platform, this generation of the WR450F blends motocross aggression with trail-riding sensibility. After spending a day wrestling this blue beast through rocky ascents, sandy washes, and tight single-track, one thing becomes clear: this bike isn’t just capable—it’s alive.

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Engine Performance: Precision Meets Pull

At the heart of the WR450F lies a 450cc liquid-cooled, DOHC single-cylinder engine derived from the YZ450F. The rearward-slanted cylinder and front-down draft intake aren’t just engineering jargon—they centralize mass, giving the bike a planted feel while allowing the engine to breathe efficiently. During my test ride, the Mikuni® fuel injection system delivered crisp throttle response, whether I was lugging through technical climbs or pinning it across open fire roads.

The power curve is linear but insistent. With a 12.8:1 compression ratio and a bore/stroke of 97mm x 60.9mm (3.8” x 2.4”), the WR450F builds momentum smoothly, avoiding the abrupt “hit” of pure motocrossers. The 5-speed wide-ratio transmission is a standout—first and second gears tackle gnarly terrain without stalling, while fifth gear lets the bike stretch its legs at highway-legal speeds (where permitted).

Key specs reinforcing this performance: - Fuel capacity: 7.9 liters (2.1 gallons) – enough for 2+ hours of hard riding. - Clutch: A heat-resistant, judder-free design requiring minimal lever effort—a blessing in stop-and-go trails. - Starter: Electric-only, with a repositioned motor reducing drag by 60% compared to older models. No kickstarter? No regrets.

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Handling & Suspension: Dancing Through the Dirt

Yamaha’s bilateral beam aluminum frame—shared with the YZ450F—strikes a balance between rigidity and flex. The 2019-2020 WR450F fine-tunes this with revised engine mounts, resulting in a chassis that communicates every pebble but refuses to deflect unpredictably. Paired with a 27.2° rake and 117mm (4.6”) of trail, the bike carves through switchbacks like a trials machine yet remains stable at speed.

The KYB® suspension is where the WR450F outshines its peers. The 48mm USD forks and rear shock are fully adjustable, with settings tailored for enduro’s mixed demands. Over roots and rocks, the speed-sensitive damping soaks up small bumps plushly, while big hits trigger a progressive resistance that avoids bottoming out. Even at full lean, the Dunlop MX3S® tires (21” front, 18” rear) dig in with tenacity, though their 1.0 bar (14.5 psi) stock pressure felt best for intermediate terrain.

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Ergonomics & Comfort: Built to Move With You

At 965mm (38”), the seat height is intimidating on paper, but the narrow frame and sculpted seat let shorter riders (like this 5’8” tester) dab confidently. The tapered aluminum handlebar offers four positions, accommodating everything from standing attacks to seated cruising. Yamaha’s “mass centralization” ethos shines here—the 2.2-gallon fuel tank sits low, and the redesigned headlight cowl pulls weight inward, making the 120kg (265 lb) machine feel 20kg lighter mid-corner.

Small touches elevate the experience: - Side stand: Forged aluminum, tucked high to avoid snags. - Air filter: Tool-free access—critical for dusty races. - Speed sensor: Lightweight, eliminating bulky mechanical drives.

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Competition: How the WR450F Stacks Up

The 450cc enduro segment is fiercely contested. Here’s how the Yamaha holds its ground:

KTM 450 EXC-F

• Pros: Lighter (113kg/249 lbs), sharper throttle response.
• Cons: Stiffer suspension, pricier maintenance.
  Verdict: The KTM thrives in races; the Yamaha excels in endurance.

Honda CRF450X

• Pros: Softer power delivery for beginners.
• Cons: Heavier, dated chassis.
  Verdict: The CRF450X is a friendly trail companion; the WR450F is a racer in disguise.

Husqvarna FE 450

• Pros: Premium components (WP suspension, Magura brakes).
• Cons: Higher cost, finicky electronics.
  Verdict: The Husky feels premium, but the Yamaha’s reliability is unmatched.

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Maintenance: Keeping the WR450F Alive

The WR450F is built tough, but smart upkeep ensures longevity. As a MOTOPARTS.store journalist, here’s my toolkit:

1. Valve Checks
2. Intake: 0.10–0.17mm (0.004–0.007”)

3. Exhaust: 0.15–0.22mm (0.006–0.009”)
   Recommendation: Inspect every 50 hours. Shims wear slowly but predictably.

4. Oil Changes

5. Capacity: 650ml (22 oz) with filter. Use SAE 10W-50.
   Recommendation: Swap every 15 hours. Consider a magnetic drain plug for metal debris.

6. Chain & Sprockets

7. Stock: 13/50 teeth, 114-link O-ring chain.
   Recommendation: Upgrade to a DID® VT2 Enduro chain for muddy conditions.

8. Cooling System

9. Capacity: 1.0L (1.06 qt). Use ethylene glycol-based coolant.
   Recommendation: Install a high-flow impeller kit for extreme heat.

10. Air Filter

11. Stock: Twin-air foam.
    Recommendation: Pair with no-toil filter oil for easy cleaning.

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Final Thoughts: The Enduro Swiss Army Knife

The 2019-2020 WR450F isn’t just a dirt bike—it’s a testament to Yamaha’s off-road pedigree. It’s as comfortable blitzing a hare scramble as it is navigating backcountry trails. While competitors chase horsepower or weight savings, the WR450F masters balance. And with MOTOPARTS.store’s catalog of upgrades, this Yamaha can evolve alongside your skills, from weekend warrior to hard enduro hero.

Ready to make it yours? Your next adventure starts here.

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Specifications sheet

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