It's understandable that a lot of people are turned off by high-priced purchases. Given the state of the economy we're in, saving as much money as you can has become a great priority.

Motorcycle brands like Yamaha->ke301 know this, and they are certainly sensitive to the market's capabilities. That's why it has become important for them to release models that are not only economical when it comes to fuel, but also on the bank account.

One such model is the 2012 Yamaha YFZ450->ke2713, an all-utility vehicle that's considered one of the best bargain buys on the market. It's got great styling; it has an excellent chassis design; and it comes with an impressive 449cc 5-valve DOHC power-plant.

Among the new features of the 2012 YFZ450 model are a new pair of high quality, non-reservoir shocks made by KYB that have been tuned exclusively for the YFZ and designed to excel at handling a wide variety of riding situations. The bike also offers significantly more low and midrange performance compared with the previous model. Yet despite this, the 2012 model still carries the same power output, thanks to a few Yamaha modifications that include revised cam profile and timing and new ignition mapping.

As far as the chassis is concerned, the new YFZ450 has a lightweight, ultra-compact steel frame with an aluminum sub frame that gives the machine added flexibility. For the rear suspension, a highly tuned Showa piggyback shock returns on this newest model, with the only difference being found in the adjustability features.

Other new features attached to the YFZ450 include a new push-button ignition, tapered handlebars, and an efficient dual-hydraulic braking system in the front with two-piston caliper in the rear.

More details on the Yamaha YFZ 450 after the jump.

2012 Yamaha YFZ 450

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2012 Yamaha YFZ 450
  • Engine/Motor: 5-valve DOHC power-plant
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Engine

-449cc liquid-cooled, DOHC four-stroke with five valves features

95mm bore and 63.4mm stroke for massive power with high

over-rev capacity and crisp, linear throttle response.

-A large 42mm Mikuni BSR carburetor delivers precise fuel/air

mixing and crisp throttle response with low throttle lever effort.

-Smooth-shifting YZ-spec ratchet-type five-speed transmission

and heavy-duty clutch deliver all that power to the rear tires with

maximum efficiency.

-Large-capacity radiator is optimally mounted in the frame to

guard against damage.

-Reliable pushbutton electric start in any gear adds

extra convenience.

-Additional weight-saving engine features include: magnesium

cylinder head cover and right-side crankcase cover.

-Dry-sump engine carries oil in an aluminum tank directly in front

of the engine for excellent cooling and optimal protection from

rocks or mud.

-Large capacity airbox features no-tool access to the extra large

oiled dual-foam filter for easy maintenance.

Chassis and Suspension

-Independent aluminum upper A-arm front suspension features

9.1 inches of travel.

-Rear suspension system uses YZ-linkage type, controlled by a

piggyback shock with 10.6 inches of travel.

-Dual hydraulic front brakes with 127mm discs and classexclusive,

dual-piston hydraulic 173mm rear disc provide strong

braking capability with progressive control and feel.

-The wheel has been designed with the inner lip rolled in.

This increases the rigidity, allowing a reduction in weight while

maintaining strength.

-High-performance 21x7R-10 front and 20x10R-9 rear Dunlop®

radials, designed specifically for the YFZ450, deliver superb,

class-leading traction.

-Ultra-rigid cast aluminum swingarm reduces unsprung weight

and provides optimal suspension action.

-Long travel out back means an excellent ride and handling.

-Eccentric chain adjuster mechanism simplifies that job.

-Long, low, and narrow YZ-style seat enhances the quick, balanced

steering and optimal rider movement.

Additional Features

-Rugged steel 45mm foot rests provide excellent grip and

rider comfort.

-Large-capacity, 2.6-gallon fuel tank provides excellent range.

-Dual 30-watt multireflector Krypton headlights set back in the

front cowl add the perfect menacing appearance. 21/5W taillight

is tough, and incorporates a brakelight for added convenience.

Specifications

Model

YFZ45BB; YFZ45BW

Engine Type

449cc liquid-cooled w/fan; 4-stroke; DOCH;

5 valves

Bore x Stroke

95.0 x 63.4mm

Compression Ratio

11.4:1

Fuel Delivery

Mikuni 42mm BSR

Ignition

DC-CDI

Starting System

Electric

Transmission

5-speed; wet multiplate clutch

Drive Train

2WD; sealed O-ring chain,

eccentric adjustment

Suspension/Front

Independent double wishbone; 9.1-in travel

Suspension/Rear

Cast aluminum swingarm; 10.6-in travel

Brakes/Front

127mm Dual hydraulic disc

Brake/Rear

173mm Hydraulic disc

Tires/Front

Dunlop AT21 x 7-10

Tires/Rear

Dunlop AT20 x 10R9

L x W x H

72.4 x 46.1 x 42.9 in

Seat Height

31.9 in

Wheelbase

50.4 in

Ground Clearance

4.5 in

Fuel Capacity

2.6 gal

*Wet Weight

381 lb

Lighting

Dual 30W Krypton multireflector

headlights & 21/5W LED brakelight

Color

Black Metallic; White w/ choice of graphic