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2008 Yamaha YZ450F Intro Photo Gallery
Motorcycle USA got a chance to kick up some roost aboard the new and improved 2008 YZ450F dirt bike. Check out our
2008 Yamaha YZ450F First Ride
2008 Yamaha YZ450F Intro Lead Graphic
YZF Video
At the heart of the YZ450F is a 449cc DOHC 4-stroke with a 95 X 63.4mm bore/stroke and a compression ratio of 12.3:1.
The stock tires hooked up well on the sandy Milestone Motocross Park which validated Yamaha's move to a larger rear tire.
Alvin Zalamea kicks up some roost as he wheels the big 450 around the Milestone MX Park.
Catching air on the big thumper is no problem thanks to the YZ's modified 449cc DOHC 4-stroker.
The powerful 4-stroke encourages airborne antics.
A lot of racers will be watching the YZ450F blow by them if other manufacturers don't keep pushing the envelope.
The improved suspension of the 2008 YZ450F helps soften the landings even when you come in hard.
Changes to the YZ450F's chassis left a positive impression on our testers and made them fearless through the ruts.
'When the front wheel finds what it's looking for, it sticks like gum on the bottom of your shoe.' MCUSA's Waheed is never short of colorful analogies.
It only takes a light twist of the throttle to engage in a little one-wheeled fun.
The rear on the 2008 Yamaha YZ450F has a wider 120/80-19 Dunlop D756 and a 245mm single wave-style disc brake.
Let 'er rip, AZ. Once again, Zalamea beckoned MCUSA's call when it came time to put the YZ fo-fifty to the test.
Our testers claim the suspension action is much improved over last year's bike which gave riders confidence when attacking tight corners.
With minor tweaks to the engine, a new exhaust, an upgraded chassis and tweaks to the suspension, Yamaha has the 2008 YZ450F dialed in tight.
A shorter steering head pipe and stem and a lighter forged lower triple clamp help the YZ450F turn in quicker and easier than in years past.
The 'punched cone' muffler is new for 2008, almost six inches shorter than last year's can which shaves about half a pound.
