The first thing we noticed about the 2014 Yamaha YFZ450R was the updated styling and ergonomics. When we threw a leg over the quad for the first time we noticed right away that the front fenders were repositioned.
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The front fenders were moved forward & lower for taller riders |
The
plastic on the gas tank shrouds were also
extended for improved comfort |
With the front fenders moved forward, and slightly lower, it helps to keep taller riders from banging their knees into them. Also, the plastic has been extended along the side of the frame, which is make it more comfortable on your knees to rub against the plastic instead of the frame.
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The
rear fenders were raised level with the
seat to make it easier to slide side to
side |
The
heel guards were moved moved back for
more foot room |
The rear fenders were raised up in line with the seat, along with the seat geometry, the rear fender design makes it easy to slide from side to side during more aggressive riding conditions or while racing. The heel guards have also been moved back a little to allow more room for taller riders and the adjustable handlebar mount locations make it easy to customize your riding position for a more comfortable ride.
One of the most remarkable improvements to the Yamaha
YFZ450R for 2014 is the new Assist and Slip
(A&S) clutch. This new centrifugal clutch
gives a 25% lighter clutch pull and reduces
the braking effect.
The A&S clutch was really easy to pull.
As the engine rotates the cams slip into deeper
engagement for increased force, which helps
pull the clutch in giving less resistance for
the rider. During deceleration the cams slip
to force the pressure plate outward to a degree
that cancels out the back-torque, but still
retaining sufficient engagement force. We really
noticed the difference the A&S clutch made
during our test ride and were very impressed
with its performance.
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The compression was increased from 11.6:1 to 11.8:1 to compensate for EPA regulations robbing power
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For 2014, Yamaha included a new air induction system on the YFZ450R due to new EPA regulations. Yamaha found that this new required system robs power from the engine, so to compensate, Yamaha decided to increase the power on the YFZ450R. In order for that to happen, a new cylinder head was introduced and the compression was increased to 11.8:1. This new power plant also has a new cam shaft, new connecting rod and a new big end rod bearing.
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With slightly larger compression, new cam shaft, connecting, along with revised fuel mapping improved the overall power, which made for a hard hitting yet smooth ride |
