Our test rider, Callum Gordon, headed over to the Netherlands to test out the new 2026 Yamaha YZ450F 70th Anniversary Edition. After two days of rubbing shoulders with the Yamaha GP riders and bigwigs, and a full day of testing on the fantastically prepped track, here’s how it stacked up…
Test by Callum Gordon
First Impressions & Styling
The first thing that hits you is the look. The Anniversary Edition colours are stunning, a proper nod to Yamaha’s heritage with a modern edge. Instead of blending into the usual sea of blue, this bike pops instantly. The slim bodywork feels compact, and Yamaha’s clever honeycomb-pattern gripper seat cover is a smart touch — it lets you slide forward with ease but holds you from slipping back under acceleration.
Engine & Power Delivery
Beneath the bodywork sits a 450cc liquid-cooled DOHC engine with four titanium valves and a high 13.0:1 compression ratio. Power is managed by a 44 mm Mikuni EFI system and a slick new hydraulic clutch.
The clutch deserves special mention: it delivers a cable-like feel but with the consistency and smoothness only hydraulics can offer. No fade, no mid-session adjustments, just predictable bite lap after lap.
On track, the engine is an absolute weapon — but a rideable one. The bottom-end torque hits hard, driving the bike forward with authority, while the midrange keeps pulling strong. Even though the test track’s straights weren’t long enough to fully open it up, there was never a shortage of power.
Mapping makes a big difference. The aggressive map is sharp and torquey, best suited for riders with better throttle control. The smoother map, however, transforms the bike into something incredibly forgiving, especially in slick conditions or deep ruts. Club-level riders will love this mode, while pros will likely swap between both depending on conditions.
Handling & Suspension
For 2026, Yamaha revised the aluminium bilateral beam frame, adjusting rigidity for better front-end feel and balance. Combined with the updated KYB suspension package, the result is a chassis that feels more planted and confidence-inspiring.
Even without personal suspension tweaks during the test, the bike felt dialled. As I am light at just 70 kg, I felt like I could charge braking bumps, slam into corners, and land on rough sections without being unsettled. The suspension squats under power rather than kicking you on top, making it feel like you’re riding in the bike rather than on it. It’s balanced, stable, and remarkably forgiving when things go wrong — one sketchy landing that would have spat me off on my own bike was nicely absorbed by the YZ450F.
Starts, Launch Control & Traction
Starts were a highlight. The YZ450F now features adjustable launch control via the Power Tuner App. My first start, without launch assist, was already clean and straight, the front lifting just enough, which was definitely holeshot material. With launch control engaged on the second attempt, the bike dug in like Velcro on mesh, delivering near-perfect traction. Honestly, it was almost too much grip for the perfect track conditions.
Traction control is also adjustable through the app, providing another safety net in slicker conditions. Together, these systems give the rider more options for managing power delivery at the gate and beyond.
Brakes & Control
Stopping power comes from a 270 mm front and 240 mm rear disc with Nissin calipers.
The brakes felt sharp straight out of the box — crisp, responsive, which gave me confidence in them. Like any new setup, they’ll only get better with bedding in, but even fresh, they earned a big thumbs-up.
Tech Features & The Power Tuner App
The free Yamaha Power Tuner App is one of the most underrated features on the YZ450F. From your phone, you can adjust mapping, traction control, and engine braking, then save presets for specific tracks.
A standout addition for 2026 is the ECU lock function. With thefts on the rise, being able to password-lock your bike so it won’t start without authorisation is a massive win for peace of mind.
On-Track Personality
What ties it all together is just how forgiving the bike feels. It’s still brutally fast — this is a 450, after all — but Yamaha’s changes make it accessible. Aggressive riders will find the performance they crave, while average riders can enjoy on the smoother mapping, forgiving chassis, and tech assists to keep things under control.
Even when mistakes crept in — overjumping a double or getting cross rutted the bike straightened itself out and let me carry on and on the gas. This stability really gave me confidence in the bike quite early on.
Verdict
In summary, the 2026 Yamaha YZ450F takes what already worked and makes it better. You’ve got a slick new hydraulic clutch, a chassis that feels sharper, suspension that just works, and some really handy electronics that make life easier. Throw in those stunning Anniversary Edition colours and you’ve got a 450 that isn’t just about going fast — it’s about being rideable for pretty much anyone.
It’s got loads of power, it’s super precise, but the best bit is how forgiving it feels. It doesn’t just demand respect like some big bikes do — it actually helps you ride better and find more speed with confidence. Bottom line: the 2026 YZ450F looks mega, and it rides exactly how it looks.
