2012 Yamaha YFZ450 ATV Test Ride / Review
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The mounting points for the stock shocks are the same as on the original model, so owners have plenty of aftermarket options for upgrades to their front suspension. The rear shock of the new 2012 model has remained the same with a Showa piggyback rear shock giving the rider 10.6 inches of rear travel.

To cut down on cost Yamaha chose to use non-piggyback KYB front shocks. These shocks feature 9.1" of travel	On the rear, Yamaha chose to keep the same Showa piggyback rear shock with cast aluminum swing arm

We were somewhat skeptical about the change in suspension at first, but once we were out on the dunes, the stock KYB shocks proved to be quite capable, and with 9.1 inches of travel, offered a surprisingly plush and smooth ride. They were even able to soak up the impact on moderate jumps without bottoming out. We would recommend upgrading the shocks for more aggressive riders, or for those who want to take the YFZ450 to the track, but for the recreational rider, the KYB suspension should work nicely.

Despite its lower cost the 2012 Yamaha YFZ450 still has the same performance & handling characteristics its YFZ450 family

For 2012, the Yamaha YFZ450 also received a new tire and wheel combo that we felt improved handling and made the steering of this nimble machine seem even easier. The new lighter front wheels have a rolled inner lip that helps to protect the wheel and prevents dirt and mud from entering. The new Dunlop front tires are lighter weight and help to reduce steering effort.

The 2012 Yamaha YFZ450 performed exceptionally well at the dunes & has a price tag that will be easier on your wallet at just $6,799 MSRP

Overall we were pretty happy with the 2012 YFZ450 and the way it performed. We feel that this is an excellent recreational quad that is built on a solid and proven platform and is a great way for anyone who is looking to upgrade to a new, larger cc machine, but is also looking for affordability. The 2012 Yamaha YFZ450 MSRP is set at $6,799.00. It is the lowest priced 450cc sport quad on the market and is approximately $1,200.00 less than it’s nearest priced competitor.

Taking into consideration the state of both our nation’s economy and the state of the ATV industry, Yamaha has taken a step in the right direction in order to try and bring back a core demographic of consumers, who are wanting to either get back into riding, or wanting to upgrade their quads, but have not been able to afford to do so, due to the higher prices of 450cc performance sport ATV’s. The new 2012 Yamaha YFZ450 offers consumers a new option and at the same time will hopefully breathe new life into the declining market.