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2011 Yamaha YFZ450R SE Comparison Photo Gallery

Yamaha left its popular YFZ450R alone for 2011 but gave the SE model ($8949) a few upgrades centered on aesthetics.

Check out photos of the 2011 Yamaha YFZ450R SE Comparison in the Yamaha sport ATV gallery.

The liquid-cooled engine uses dual overhead cams to control five titanium valves. Yamaha says the engine is tuned to maximize midrange torque, but we all consider it best with more revs.

Footpegs are a burly 2.6-inches wide with large kick-up on the ends to allow excellent grip.

Out back is a cast aluminum swingarm mated to straight axles and a 46mm KYB piggyback shock.

Yamaha's black exhaust matches its SE bodywork. The decibel output is mild.

Combined with long dual A-arms, the shocks allow wheel travel up to 9.8 inches before bottoming. The shock springs are red and the piggyback reservoir black to match the SE aesthetics.

Our ProTapers were slightly tweaked in a crash so we took the opportunity to try out a set of Fasst Co. Flexx handlebars to help take the sting out of any jarring impacts.

Seat foam is very comfortable as well. Though skinny, the Yamaha seat is very comfortable by sport-quad standards.

The aluminum frame is bolted together and the oil tank is integrated into the engine crankcase. Plus, getting into the serious components is made easier with the SE version’s quick-access Dzus fasteners on the bodywork.

Jumping is more secure and the higher-spec suspension is better able to absorb heavy landings and small, choppy sand as well.

Sleek bodywork transitions seamlessly into the sculpted seat. Narrow up front and flared in the rear, the seat’s shape helps the rider move freely and also to hang off the rear of the ATV.

The KYB suspension does a good job of handling trail garbage.

Seat height is an inch taller than the Kawasaki at 31.9 inches, though you’d swear the KFX perches higher.

Front shocks are 44mm KYB units with Kashima coating and full adjustability (rebound, high/low-speed compression and rebound).

The black/red color scheme and “metallic vertebra” graphics were universally liked by our staff members, and the Yamaha strikes a very aggressive pose with its angular bodywork.

The Yamaha proved it's still willing to go
off-road despite its motocross pedigree.

Thee wider stance still fits down ATV designated trails and also helps span ruts.