The 2021 Yamaha WR450F has received a lot of revisions this year. Almost every aspect of the bike has been analyzed, considered, and tested to see what works well and what could be more efficient. To that end, the 2021 version of the bike has undergone many replacements, redesigns, and revisions, from the outer body and frame to the inner workings of the engine and suspension. Many of these changes were made to accommodate off-roading capabilities, though they also work to make the bike more emissions compliant, smooth, and effective as a whole.

Read on to discover the qualities of the 2021 Yamaha WR450F that help it become a superior enduro bike.

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Total Engine Power Activated

2021 Yamaha WR450F, side view
via Enduro21

The engine is quite articulate, with a lot of moving parts joined together to put out massive power. While certain parts from the WR450F were carried over from its predecessor, the YZ450F, this proved to be practical, as the cylinder head, camshafts, piston, and connecting rod from that model showed superior quality and durability. The 2021 Yamaha WR450F showcases a five-speed transmission, and it has a stator with higher output and increased wattage in order for headlights to shine brighter while retaining battery power in the process.

EPA requirements also play a significant role in this new bike, as the exhaust system and ECU tuning have both been modified to comply with these new requirements. An optional Communication Control Unit (CCU) is available to empower the Yamaha Power Tuner app, creating custom maps for various routes. The engine is notable for how smoothly it runs, which isn't surprising given its history and template as a YZ450F race engine.

Its powerplant is noticeably faster than those of its predecessors, and it shows no difference in its capabilities depending on which gear the bike is in when it starts. However, it also showcases slightly less power than the aforementioned YZ450F, which may actually be beneficial when riding in lower ranges. As a result, riders can retain traction when they're heavier on the throttle. That said, while it lacks the power of its predecessor in the higher range, that isn't to say that it isn't powerful once riders reach the higher range.

Enduro-specific components include a radiator fan and a multi-chamber mechanical spark arrestor-equipped muffler, among others. And while the suspension is softer when compared to previous models, it still is sufficient enough to suppress rebound and promote a feeling of control. Further, just to cement the bike's enduro status, there's a multi-function enduro-meter that incorporates two trip meters, a clock function, an average speed display, and a timer in one nice package. Also of note is that the 2021 Yamaha WR450F has a solid front-rear balance.

Kicks Up Dirt On The Rough Stuff

Blue 2021 Yamaha WR450F on sidewalk
via Motoworld of El Cajon

Some aspects of the 2021 Yamaha WR450F were deliberately made with off-roading in mind. These aspects include but are not limited to, a more compact electric start system, advanced fuel injection, a real-time fuel consumption meter, 18-inch rear wheel, aluminum side stand, a redesigned compact enduro-meter, and a sealed O-ring chain.

To further showcase the bike's off-roading capabilities, more power was spread between the front-positioned intake and rear-positioned exhaust. What's notable about this feat is that it was accomplished without sacrificing the bike's aforementioned front-rear balance, thereby optimizing weight distribution. As of now, the bike is reported to sell for approximately $9,800.

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It's Got Flexibility In All Conditions

2021 Yamaha WR450F outdoors on grass
via Rust Sports

The 2021 Yamaha WR450F was designed to function smoothly in almost any condition, whether it be typical or adverse. The bike showcases a five-speed transmission that has a wider ratio than that of its predecessors.

Yamaha even made the engine so it would be flexible enough to accommodate any environment. This engine is a 449 cc, liquid-cooled, four-stroke, electric start, and further, it has a new compact cylinder head, proving beneficial for the bike's functionality.

The head has both steeper valve angles and a revised combustion chamber shape, helping the bike run smoothly despite the environment. The higher compression piston has lower friction rings, and all of this is housed inside a rear exhaust powerplant.

The 2021 Yamaha WR450F also has a forward-positioned downdraft intake, which is further evidence of newer revisions. Overall, the bike's engine and interior workings have been remade to increase power and efficiency while becoming more compact.

The 2021 Yamaha WR450F Is A Total Package Deal

Rider riding 2021 Yamaha WR450F down dirt hill
via Canada Moto Guide

A surprising amount of features have been revised, modified, or introduced for 2021. First off, the lightweight aluminum bilateral beam frame has been redesigned in order to facilitate superior traction and cornering performance, as well as react more quickly and efficiently to bumps.

Suspension, engine mounts, top triple clamp, and front axle were remade with the goal of weight reduction and superior performance in mind. The chassis now moves more smoothly in order to deliver power more seamlessly.

Further, the front brake caliper, brake pads, and front disc- all newly redesigned- work in tandem to provide increased control and smoother acceleration while also boosting the power input. The dashboard has also been newly redesigned to be more user-friendly and easier to read, even showcasing higher-contrast LCD lighting.

Sources: yamahamotorsports.com, motocrossactionmag.com, dirtrider.com, ultimatemotorcycling.com,