Engine performance has been refined with the addition of a redesigned intake port which produces a stronger tumble effect in the combustion chamber for more efficient combustion. The result is a more linear engine response for enhanced control and feeling of connection between the throttle and rear wheel.

A new frame design for 2026 focuses on the balance of rigidity and flex characteristics. Revised inner and outer structure including a thinner front downtube results in a highly stable ride with enhanced front-end feel for improved cornering performance.

A large 270mm front brake rotor is coupled with a Nissin caliper to provide excellent braking  performance. Out back, rear brake feel is improved by reducing the rigidity of the brake hose providing a wider range of control at the pedal.

Tri-shaft transmission layout vertically stacks the transmission shafts, raising the centre shaft and forming a triangle between the crank, drive shaft and main shaft for a lighter, more compact transmission.

Like having factory team support in your pocket, Yamaha’s groundbreaking Power Tuner App allows owners to adjust air/fuel mixture and ignition timing to tune engine performance for track conditions, record race log information and monitor a range of data such as maintenance and system diagnosis, engine run time and more. Features include an intuitive “Simple Tuning” slide bar for quick engine mapping adjustments, Traction and Launch Control tuning, lap timer, along with helpful engine and suspension tuning guides. Best of all, it’s free-of-charge.

Adding to rider comfort and ease of use is a new hydraulic clutch for smooth, consistent engagement with less effort while eliminating the need for on-track adjustments. In addition, a new clutch inner hub design lubricates over a larger area for more stable performance and longer life.

An industry-first ECU lock function is now adopted on the 2026 YZ450F for theft deterrence, allowing owners to prevent unauthorised engine start-up via a password-required lock function accessed through the Yamaha Power Tuner app. 

Careful computer-aided design of each wheel’s cross-sectional profile shaves weight without sacrificing durability. The YZ450F’s rear wheel comes laced with a three-cross-spoke pattern for improved impact absorption and rider feel.

A new shock and revised fork settings developed jointly with KYB® offer an enhanced damping feel with less bump reaction, providing the confidence to ride harder for longer. The updated shock also has a new hand-operated low-speed compression clicker for simplified trackside adjustments. 

Optimised intake path draws air from under the side covers and seat allowing for a lighter, slimmer and more compact shroud area. The airbox cover sits low and is narrow, surrounded by the slim radiator shrouds.

Updated styling includes a slimmer, more compact front number plate, new two-piece side covers, sharper rear fender and new YZ graphics and a new honeycomb-pattern seat cover material maintains ease in rider sliding forward while improving hold from sliding rearward during acceleration.