August 30, 2022
Off Road Competition is in Yamaha's DNA – in all its forms, on all levels. The numerous achievements at the highest level of racing speak for themselves, but Yamaha's commitment goes beyond competitive racing. It's about sharing the same winning performance with riders on all levels of the sport.
3 min read
Yamaha’s 2026 Off Road Competition range reflects this philosophy. With genuine racing DNA running through the range, Yamaha have further boosted the race-winning performance and handling of the YZ450F, redesigned the intake system and enhanced carburation of the YZ125, and made the whole range more appealing with updated colours and graphics.
Yamaha is also adding to the line-up four special 70th anniversary models. These bikes with their stunning special livery weave together the rich fabric of Yamaha’s past and present off road race success with the promise of maintaining the fighting spirit that keeps the victories coming in the future.
The new YZ450F features a new engine, with the intake system redesigned for greater ease of use with more linear throttle response and improved control in the low-to mid-speed range. Torque characteristics have also been improved for better feel.
The exhaust has been made quieter, and the muffler’s attachment angle was lowered slightly to create more space to allow easier pick up at the rear fender. The 2026 YZ450F also features a new hydraulic clutch, which eliminates the need for adjustments during racing, keeping the meshing point constant during continued riding.
The YZ450F’s frame has been further improved to achieve even greater usability, comfort and feel. To match it characteristics, the front suspension setting has been modified, further improving the feel and stability, and reducing fatigue. For the rear, a new rear suspension has been jointly developed with KYB, providing smoother transition of the damping force from the low-to high-speed range.
When the 2026 YZ450F is parked between the races, an ECU lock function enables the rider to lock the bike on the Power Tuner App. The YZ450F also delivers when it comes to looks. The new bodywork has been styled to accentuating its light and compact stance, while a new seat with anti-slide surface provides better control.
Tying the model even firmer to Yamaha’s past, present and future racing success is the YZ450F 70th Anniversary Edition, featuring a stunning white and red livery inspired by the iconic YZM400F.
The latest YZ125 features a redesign of its intake system and optimised carburation and ignition timing to deliver more consistent and more linear power delivery, excellent throttle response and smoother corner exit, making the YZ125 even more versatile, and suitable for a wider range of riders from beginners to experts.
And with the 70th Anniversary Edition, Yamaha adds the special white and red livery to the long list of the iconic machine’s attributes.
