MARIETTA, Ga., Sept. 10, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, has announced the return of its off-road WR lineup, highlighted by major updates to the new 2027 WR450F engine, chassis, suspension and more. The new WR450F has been optimized to cater to Enduro riding where there’s a variety of terrain that necessitates a wider range of speed and versatility. The WR250F will return unchanged for 2027.

“The new WR450F has undergone significant changes in order to refine its power and handling characteristics,” said Dan Rivito, Yamaha Motorsports Motorcycle Business Manager. “The result is a machine that sets the standard for being easy to ride on both fast-flowing trails as well as tight, technical singletrack. Because easy to ride means easy to ride fast.”

Engine character has been tuned with a focus on low- to mid-range power to suit off-road riding. A revised intake port design produces a more linear delivery that enhances throttle control. Cam timing changes have resulted in more stable combustion while increased AC magneto inertia promotes a confidence-inspiring delivery aimed at technical and low-speed riding situations. Both changes also increase stall resistance at low speeds. To further improve power delivery, especially when riding flowing third gear trails, the rear drive sprocket has increased in size by one tooth from 50 to 51.

A new frame design for 2027 balances rigidity and flex characteristics. A revised front downtube results in a highly stable ride with enhanced front end feel for improved cornering performance. The new frame is matched with a new high-performance KYB® rear shock and revised fork settings with more progressive settings to provide better front-end contact, feel and initial movement comfort, giving the rider a new level of confidence in rocky, rooty and technical trail situations.

The updated shock features a new piston that improves damping force in the lowest speed range and expands the range of damping adjustments. The shock also has a new hand-operated low-speed compression clicker for simplified trailside adjustments.

These chassis and suspension updates result in greater usability in everything from slow, tight singletrack to high-speed open trail. With better comfort and front-end feel, the new WR450F is easier and less fatiguing to navigate through slippery rocks and roots on technical trails.

A new hydraulic clutch provides smooth, consistent engagement with less effort while eliminating the need for on-trail adjustments. In addition, a new clutch inner hub design is lubricated over a larger area for stable performance and durability.

New lightweight rear braking components have been reduced in size, including the brake disc, master cylinder and piston diameters. This improves rear brake controllability and saves 180g in total.

Updated styling for 2027 includes a sharper rear fender and new WRF graphics. There is also a new honeycomb-pattern seat cover material that makes sliding forward while braking easier and helps prevent sliding rearward during acceleration.

This model is equipped with Yamaha’s industry-leading smartphone Power Tuner App that features traction control, lap timer, suspension tuning guides, an ECU-lock function and more. Racing customers can access the engine tuning and launch control functions with the purchase of a GYTR Competition ECU Kit.

The 2027 WR450F is an intuitive, rider-friendly machine with an exceptional balance of power and handling. An enduro bike with more connection and control for longer, faster and more comfortable fun, as well as effortless slow speed riding. The result inspires rider confidence and sets a new standard for the class.

2027 WR450F Features & Benefits

  • Powerful 450cc four-stroke engine features a revised, more linear power delivery that smooths out the initial response for added control and rideability. Redesigned intake port produces more efficient combustion and improved torque
  • The reverse-fed engine features magneto, cam timing and drive sprocket changes for easily controllable low speed power delivery
  • Yamaha’s industry-leading smartphone Power Tuner App features Traction Control tuning and ECU-lock function
  • New hydraulic clutch offers lighter lever feel, smoother feathering and a consistent mesh point, eliminating the need for on-trail adjustments. A new clutch inner hub design also enables lubrication over a larger area for stable performance and durability
  • Advanced fuel injection via a 44mm Mikuni® throttle body ensures optimum fuel atomization and power for a wide range of riding conditions and helps efficient starting
  • Five-speed, wide ratio transmission with tri-shaft layout vertically stacks transmission shafts for a light and compact gearbox
  • New frame design balances rigidity and flex characteristics for great stability, comfort and compliance in off-road riding conditions
  • High-spec fully adjustable Speed Sensitive System KYB® coil spring-type fork with revised settings provide exceptional feel, improved comfort and bump absorption
  • New high-performance KYB® rear shock enhances low-speed damping and smooths the damping transition between low and high speeds for enhanced control in a variety of conditions. The new rear shock now includes a hand-operated low-speed compression clicker for simplified trackside adjustments
  • New lightweight rear braking components have been reduced in size, including brake disc, master cylinder and piston diameters. This combines with new brake pad material to improve rear brake controllability and saves 180g in total
  • High-performance front brake features a large 270mm front brake rotor coupled with a Nissin caliper to provide excellent power and fade resistance
  • Updated styling includes a sharper rear fender and new WRF graphics
  • New honeycomb-pattern seat cover material maintains ease in sliding forward while improving hold from sliding rearward during acceleration
  • Trail-ready cross-country specific Dunlop® Geomax AT82 tires
  • Compact, lightweight push-button electric start provides effortless restarts
  • Lightweight aluminum tapered handlebar
  • Rubber-mounted four-position adjustable handlebar mounts reduce vibration
  • Full protection skidplate
  • Rear fender with handy grab area
  • Water-resistant bar pad
  • Lightweight Lithium-ion battery

The 2027 WR450F and returning WR250F will be available in dealers this October in Team Yamaha Blue: 

  • 2027 WR450F: available this October for $10,499 MSRP 
  • 2027 WR250F: available this October for $9,199 MSRP

Yamaha BLU CRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program

All 2027 YZ and WR models are eligible for Yamaha’s current BLU CRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program, which features over $10 million for Yamaha BLU CRU riders competing in off-road motorcycle racing. YZ and WR riders can earn contingency payouts via a BLU CRU debit card, receive a BLU CRU welcome kit and exclusive invitations to special BLU CRU events and training opportunities.

For complete details on how to register for the BLU CRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program, along with specific information on which racing series, events, and classes are included, visit the Off-Road Racing Contingency page on the Yamaha Motorsports website at: https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/blucru-registration.

Learn more about Yamaha’s complete off-road lineup, as well as other Yamaha products at:
www.yamahamotorsports.com.

Find a range of Genuine Yamaha Accessories, apparel and more at: www.yamaha-motor.com/shop.

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About Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the outdoor recreation industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATV and Side-by-Side vehicles, Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outboard Motors, Golf Cars [sold, serviced, and distributed by Yamaha Golf-Car Company], Surface Mount Technology and Robotic Machines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, Yamalube products, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of distributors and dealers in the United States.

YMUS has a corporate office in California, four corporate offices in Georgia, as well as facilities in Wisconsin, Alabama, and Florida. YMUS subsidiaries Yamaha Motor Manufacturing Corporation of America (YMMC), based in Georgia, and Yamaha Jet Boat Manufacturing U.S.A. (YJBM) based in Tennessee, each assemble and manufacture selected Yamaha brand products. YMUS owns Skeeter Boats [Texas] with its division G3 Boats [Missouri]. Additional U.S.-based subsidiaries include Yamaha Marine Systems Company, Inc. (YMSC) with subsidiary Siren Marine [Rhode Island] and divisions Bennett Marine [Florida], Yamaha Marine Rotational Molders [Wisconsin] and Yamaha Precision Propeller Inc. [Indiana].

Yamaha Motor Finance Corporation, USA, dba Yamaha Financial Services, is an affiliate of Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA offering financing solutions to support Yamaha Dealers and loyal Yamaha Customers nationwide.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Mike Ulrich
Yamaha Motor Corp., USA
714-503-7112
Mike_Ulrich@Yamaha-Motor.com

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