Yamaha Reveals Redesigned 2027 WR450F Enduro Bike

Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, has announced the 2027 WR450F. The new enduro model arrives in October with a manufacturer's suggested retail price of $10,499.

According to Dan Rivito, Yamaha Motorsports Motorcycle Business Manager, the goal was to refine power and handling. "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," Rivito said. He added that an easy-to-ride bike means it is easy to ride fast.

Engine and Drivetrain Updates

The 450cc four-stroke engine has been tuned for improved low- to mid-range power delivery, targeting off-road conditions. A redesigned intake port creates a more linear throttle response, while cam timing adjustments promote more stable combustion. Increased inertia from the AC magneto aims to boost rider confidence in technical, low-speed situations. These changes also enhance the bike's resistance to stalling.

To further refine power delivery, especially on flowing third-gear trails, the rear drive sprocket has grown by one tooth, moving from a 50-tooth to a 51-tooth sprocket.

Revised Chassis and Suspension

A new frame balances rigidity and flex, with a revised front downtube intended to improve stability and front-end feel for better cornering. This chassis is paired with a new high-performance KYB rear shock and revised fork settings that are more progressive.

These suspension updates are designed to provide better front-wheel contact and initial movement comfort, giving riders more confidence on rocky or root-filled trails. The updated shock features a new piston that improves low-speed damping and expands the range of adjustment. It also includes a new hand-operated low-speed compression clicker for easier trailside tuning.

Yamaha states these comprehensive changes make the bike more usable everywhere from slow, tight singletrack to high-speed open trails.

Controls, Brakes, and Styling

A new hydraulic clutch offers smoother, more consistent engagement with less lever effort and eliminates the need for on-trail adjustments. A redesigned clutch inner hub is lubricated over a larger area for improved durability.

The rear brake system uses new lightweight components, with reductions in the size of the brake disc, master cylinder, and piston diameters. This saves 180 grams in total and is intended to improve controllability.

Styling updates for 2027 include a sharper rear fender and new WRF graphics. The seat now uses a honeycomb-pattern cover material designed to make sliding forward during braking easier while helping to prevent sliding backward under acceleration.

Technology and Pricing

The bike comes equipped with Yamaha's smartphone Power Tuner App, which includes features like traction control tuning, a lap timer, suspension guides, and an ECU-lock function. Racers can access additional engine tuning and launch control by purchasing a separate GYTR Competition ECU Kit.

The returning WR250F model for 2027 is unchanged and will also be available in October. Both models are eligible for Yamaha's BLU CRU Off-Road Racing Contingency Program, which offers over $10 million in potential payouts for competitors.