Yamaha 2009
By TMX Archives on 11th Jun 08
YAMAHA is traditionally the first of the Japanese manufacturers to break cover with its new-season models so it comes as no surprise that piccies of the 2009 Yams crash-landed on the T+MX office this week!
And it is very much a case of, "If it ain't broke – don't fix it,” right across the board – and, as ever, that board encompasses both YZ
two-stroke and YZF four-stroke competition models. All retain the instantly recognisable blue plastics, which for 2009 are picked-out with universal ‘speed block' graphics.
The YZ250F/ YZ450F models are both popular and well established models and their aluminium frames are now complimented by a new, lighter weight swinging arm. This is in turn fitted with a lighter rear hub and larger 25mm rear wheel spindle.
The YZ450F is treated to a black cylinder head cover and a modified ignition curve for the five-valve motor.
New front and rear suspension settings, a four-way adjustable handlebar position thanks to a new upper triple-clamp, new seat material and a lightweight gold-coloured chain are all detail changes.
The ally-framed YZ125 and YZ250 two-strokes remain popular models and while no engine or major chassis mods have been announced the bikes have still been updated with the new seat, chain, lighter wheel rims (as per the YZ450F) and of course the speed-block graphics.
The WR250F/ WR450F enduro models sport the speed-block graphics but remain technically unchanged, as does the ever popular YZ85/LW.