FIRST LOOK: 2024 Yamaha WR450F Enduro

Yamaha just announced the updated 2024 WR450F enduro model with significant changes to engine, chassis, suspension and electronics to create “the lightest, slimmest and fastest 450cc enduro bike that Yamaha has ever built”.

Based closely on the new-generation YZ450F motocross bike, Yamaha has taken all the hard work put in to adapt the “next generation WR450F” and create a bike which they say is more controllable. A new chassis and suspension, a new “rider triangle” for more feel and control plus more controllable engine performance and tuneable power character promise the best big WR yet.

The 2024 updates also include a revised ECU and fuel injection mapping, revised chassis rigidity and KYB suspension settings specific to the WR and a lower ride height – as well as a larger fuel tank (compared to the YZ450F) plus of course kickstand and 18-inch rear wheel.

Developed from the winning YZ450F powerplant, the WR450F’s latest generation reverse-head engine develops increased power thanks to the new high-efficiency intake port which benefits from a redesigned intake tract giving a straighter path to the larger 39mm titanium intake valves.

For reduced weight and a lighter, more connected feel the 2024 WR450F is fitted with a newly designed Belleville washer clutch with eight optimized WR-specific friction plates. The primary gear and clutch basket are integrated, and the previous model’s 6 springs are replaced by a single Belleville wash spring that gives better controllability when pulling away and slipping the clutch out of slow corners.

Yamaha also says they have a new air intake system and FI settings on the 2024 WR450F airbox draws in air from the rear of the machine via ducts in the new side panels, frame and tank. The result is a more responsive power character and improved efficiency.

As seems to be the trend for four-stroke bikes these last few years, a new shorter muffler improves mass centralisation and underlines the WR450F’s compact feel.

Yamaha has also worked on the ECU, adapting it to the WR power with specific FI settings for more controllable power at lower rpm for enduro. “Strong, linear torque and outstanding medium to high-speed performance” 

Lower seat heigh to due shorter stroke KYB Suspension

Enduro riders will love to hear that Yamaha has addressed the "tall seat" issue that many MX chasis bring to the enduro lineup. On the ‘24 WR450F’s KYB front and rear suspension it comes equipped with 10mm less travel to give a lower seat height and a lower center of gravity making a “significant difference” to the bike’s handling.

2024 WR450F will be offered in Team Yamaha Blue and will be available at dealers starting in November for an MSRP of $10,199 . Additionally, the WR250F returns unchanged for 2024.It is offered in Team Yamaha Blue and available from dealers in November for $8999 MSRP.

New lighter, disc spring clutch

Yamaha says the 2024 WR450F has a new design disc spring clutch with eight WR-specific friction plates and the primary gear and housing integrated into the new design.

Another big difference is the previous model’s six springs are replaced by a single disc spring that claims better controllability when pulling away and slipping the in slow and more technical riding conditions.

5-speed transmission

Yep, the WR450F still has a wide ratio five-speed transmission and doesn’t adopt six as you might prefer for enduro and trail riding. It is wider ratio than the motocross gearbox however and with different final drive gearing it is therefore capable in a wider range of terrain and riding conditions.   

The ’24 transmission features a larger spacing between the main shaft and drive shaft Yamaha say, with new, wider main shaft’s gears for increased durability and reduced weight too.

- Enduro 21