We got former 125 SX winner Casey Johnson to ride the new 2017 Yamaha YZ450F and give us his thoughts. Casey currently is a trainer at 1Hundredpercent MX Training. You can find more information at www.1hundredpercentmx.com.

YZ450F

TOP FEATURES:

$8,699 MSRP
Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) shown. Does not include tax, title, prep or destination charges. Actual prices set by dealer.

1. Innovative Engine Design

The revolutionary rearward-slanted-cylinder design of the YZ450FTM allows for a straight down-draft intake with a symmetrical port layout for smooth controllable power delivery throughout the RPM range. This engine design also achieves unmatched mass centralization, for light and nimble handling.

2. GYTR® Power Tuner Ready

Accessory GYTR Power Tuner lets owners adjust air/fuel mixture and ignition timing maps to match engine performance characteristics to the rider and track conditions in a matter of seconds with the push of a few buttons, as well as monitor engine diagnostic codes.

3. Launch Control System (LCS)

LCS optimizes engine output for quicker, smoother race starts every time, boosting controllability out of the gate.

4. Ideal Frame Rigidity Balance

The bilateral beam frame features a carefully chosen combination of forged, cast and extruded aluminum pieces, when combined produce superior cornering traction and unmatched lightweight handling.

5. Class-Leading Suspension

Industry-leading, fully adjustable KYB® spring-type fork with speed sensitive damping provides exceptional balance between handling and bump absorption, for race-winning handling performance. The linkage type rear suspension features a KYB® shock with ideal damping characteristics to match the compact chassis.