Yamaha has revealed a heavily updated 2027 WR450F, with major changes to the engine, chassis, suspension, clutch, and rear brake to make the 450 easier to ride, particularly in technical terrain.
The WR450F is based on Yamaha’s YZ450F motocross platform – the same basic machine that carried Jed Beaton to the 2026 ProMX MX1 Championship. For 2027, Yamaha has focused on refining the power delivery and chassis performance to improve control across everything from tight singletrack to fast-flowing trails.
More controlled power
The 449cc four-stroke engine receives several changes aimed at improving low- to mid-range power and making the delivery more linear.
A revised intake port design improves airflow and contributes to a more controllable power delivery, while revised cam timing is claimed to provide more stable combustion. Increased AC magneto inertia further smooths the engine at low rpm and improves resistance to stalling.
The rear sprocket has also grown from 50 to 51 teeth, giving the WR450F shorter gearing better suited to technical riding and flowing third-gear trails.
The five-speed gearbox and reverse-head engine layout remain, while Yamaha’s Power Tuner smartphone app continues to provide engine mapping, traction control and launch control adjustment, along with an ECU-lock function.
New frame and suspension
The 2027 WR450F gets a redesigned aluminium bilateral beam frame, with changes to the front downtube to balance rigidity and flex for improved stability and front-end feel.
Suspension has also been revised, with the KYB Speed Sensitive System front fork receiving new settings and a new high-performance KYB rear shock.
The shock features a new piston designed to improve low-speed damping and broaden the adjustment range. It also gains a hand-operated low-speed compression clicker, allowing trackside adjustments without tools.
Yamaha says the new frame and suspension settings improve front-end contact and control, particularly in slow, technical terrain, while maintaining stability as speeds increase.
- A revised shock adds a hand-adjustable low-speed compression damping clicker for improved damping.
- The quick-release air filter cover allows easy access to the high-flow element in a raised location to maximise fresh-air intake.
- The lightweight rear brake system saves 180g and improves brake control.
- Main: Engine changes aim for even more linear power delivery for improved low-speed riding in technical conditions.
Lighter rear brake and hydraulic clutch
Another significant change is the move to a new hydraulic clutch, which provides a lighter lever action and more consistent engagement while eliminating the need for on-track cable adjustment. The redesigned clutch inner hub also improves oil distribution for durability.
At the rear, the brake disc, master cylinder and piston have all been reduced in size, along with new brake pad material. The changes save a claimed 180 grams while improving rear brake feel and control.
New styling and Australian off-road kit
Visually, the 2027 WR450F receives a sharper rear fender, new WRF graphics and a new honeycomb-pattern seat cover designed to make it easier for the rider to move forward under braking while providing more grip under acceleration.
Standard equipment includes a 270mm front brake, Dunlop Geomax EN91 DOT-approved FIM Enduro tyres, electric start, a tapered aluminium handlebar, adjustable handlebar mounts, and a full-protection bashplate.
Australian-delivered WR250F and WR450F models remain ADR compliant and are supplied with a free off-road kit designed for closed-course competition use. The kit includes an LED tail light and number-plate hardware, a braided front brake line, Barkbusters handguards, a brake snake, off-road brake-light wiring, and competition throttle and switch components.
The 2027 WR450F was developed with input from Australian and New Zealand riders, including Yamaha’s ShopYamaha Enduro team, which enjoyed a highly successful 2026 Australian Enduro Championship campaign.
The 2027 WR250F remains mechanically unchanged, with only updated graphics.
Australian pricing and availability for the 2027 WR450F will be announced later.
Contact your local Yamaha dealer for more info, or visit www.yamaha-motor.com.au
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