New 2006 YFZ450
- Updated: June 12, 2005
The made for racing All-Terrain Vehicle that woke up the industry in 2004 just got better! If you’re sitting, stand up, if your standing you better sit down because Yamaha’s 2006 YFZ450 features 80 changes from last year’s model! The 2006 YFZ450 engine packs more punch with a 449cc displacement (up from 439cc). Yamaha and its factory ATV racers, Kory Ellis, Keith Little and Bill Ballance claim a noticeable power gain and improving throttle response from the bigger and better thumper. More on their comments later. You’ll definitely want to click on their video interviews to get their opinion of this incredible new sport quad. For now, let’s get back to Yamaha’s potent four stroke technology, and how it’s used in the YFZ’s new engine. The top of the engine is updates with a new YZ-type cylinder head and narrower intake track, which gives a more direct feeling of control over the extra power. The displacement is raised with a longer stroke. A 1.4mm longer crankshaft is used for 2006.
Stopping the machine is easier than last year as well thanks to the YFZ’s all-new twin piston rear caliper. The new design ensures plenty of braking power throughout the entire moto…and then some. Up front you’ll find brake pads made up of a new friction material for better front brake feel. The front brake lever also receives changes to the lever ratio and shape for improved rider touch point and braking feel.
Returning are the aluminum upper A-arms and steering knuckles found on the independent double wishbone front suspension, offering 9.1” worth of Nitrogen-filled, fully adjustable travel. In the rear, a new single shock paired with an all-new cast-aluminum swingarm boasts 10.6” of travel, full adjustability and a YZ-type suspension linkage. For 2006, this proven system has been revised for improved low-speed comfort, but not at the expense of the bottoming resistance and high speed stability. Revisions include changes to spring rates up front. Out back you’ll find changes to the spring rates and the linkage ratio, as well as an increase of 13mm in the rear shock stroke.
For 2006, the YFZ450 finds the addition of the Yamaha Cam Adjust drive chain adjuster. The new eccentric shaft-type design makes chain adjustments quick and easy – a must for riders on the go.
The new and improved power is put to the ground via a set of completely redesigned front and rear Dunlop radials. The new design, including an all-new tread pattern on the front tires, is said to offer improved cornering and added comfort in nearly all types of terrain.
In the looks department new aluminum front and rear grab bars are used, while a new LED tail light brightens up the back of the sexy new YFZ. A new YZ-type handle bar bend is used this year and a raised stem height (a total net gain of 5mm high and 11mm back) improves rider position and overall comfort. While we’re on the comfort topic, rejoice stiff butt YFZ owners! The 2006 YFZ seat thickness is increased 15mm. The sides of the seat has also been changed to aid in rider fatigue.
Of course the YFZ continues with its electric start, which fires both the engine and race-inspired Keihin 39mm FCR carburetor at the push of a button. There’s plenty more exciting changes to talk about, so don’t leave without cruising through our photo gallery below. As you know a picture is worth a thousand words.
The 2006 YFZ450 is available August 2005 at Yamaha dealerships nationwide in Team Yamaha Blue and White/Silver color schemes. A YFZ450 Bill Ballance Edition will be available Fall 2005.