All New For The bLU cRU
New bike season is upon us and Yamaha just unveiled their 2019 lineup boasting a couple of completely redesigned bikes in the YZ85 and YZ250F along with an updated YZ450F. After a complete overhaul on their 450cc motocrosser last year, the YZ250F received many of the same upgrades as a new frame, engine, styling, and more are new for 2019 with a focus on mass centralization and handling.
The bLU cRU’s 250F hosts a slew of changes in the engine department including a higher-compression piston paired with new intake and exhaust valves all contained in a lighter cylinder with a steeper angle to compliment mass centralization while top end power is claimed to be increased. Additionally, a new 44mm throttle body matched to a new 12-hole Denso injector, a larger-diameter clutch, and a new impeller and water pump finish out the internal engine mods with an updated exhaust and larger radiators to boot.
Finally, with the addition of a redesigned electric start and lithium-ion battery, the YZ250F now offers the WiFi enabled Power Tuner app through a device for quick tuning and data logging. While using the app on our 2018 Yamaha, even our “experienced” test riders quickly adapted to the technological innovation with a quick learning curve expanding the capabilities of the motor in a matter of seconds. In addition to the Power Tuner App capabilities, the YZ250F offers a dual-mode adjustable mapping-switch for on the fly mapping changes to further customize the engine characteristics for changing track conditions.
A new aluminum frame adorns the smaller YZF with a focus on increasing rigidity and improving mass centralization similar to last years 450F. New bodywork updates the appearance while providing a slimmer platform for better control and feel of the motorcycle while the rear end of the bike sits almost 20mm lower – something shorter riders will definitely appreciate over the older Yamaha’s.
Back for 2019 is Yamaha’s tried-and-true KYB SSS coil spring suspension with updated settings to further compliment the chassis changes. With the new frame, engine, exhaust, and fuel tank, Yamaha’s focus was to further improve mass centralization to improve handling and to provide a lightweight feeling on the racetrack. The 2019 YZ250F will be available in Team Yamaha Blue or White color schemes in dealers June 2018 for an MSRP of $8,199.
After their complete overhaul of the YZ450F last year, Yamaha continued to test and develop the bike resulting in a few significant changes for the new model year. Updated suspension settings paired with new front fork lugs are designed to improve front-end traction and feel while redesigned front and rear wheel collars boost front-end traction. Like the little YZF, a new electric starter system is implemented to reduce drag on the motor resulting in increased horsepower on the rocketship like Yamaha. Finally, a stiffer seat provides a more comfortable ride while the bLU cRU goes all in on blue with a blue valvetrain cover for 2019. Like the YZ250F, the YZ450F will be available in Yamaha Blue or White in June 2018 for an MSRP of $9,299.
While many expected a new YZ250F to be coming, Yamaha upped their minicycle game with the introduction of the YZ65 a few months ago and now introduces an all new YZ85 to continue their development for their mini groms. The YZ85 features an all-new engine matched with an updated chassis and suspension focused on race-winning performance while still maintaining Yamaha’s renowned reliability. With the new engine comes the integration of Yamaha’s YPVS (Yamaha Power Valve System) along with a new cylinder and head, crankcase, crankshaft, connecting rod, transmission, CDI Unit, and exhaust. After maintaining the same platform for over a decade, Yamaha claims the new motor provides broad, tractable power without losing peak power at higher RPM’s and if it is anything like the YZ65, the new motor will surely be a contender.
The semi-double-cradle steel frame pairs with a removable subframe and a new swingarm with updated chain adjusters inspires confidence in riders while also increasing ease of maintenance. A four-position adjustable handlebar mount and adjustable levers allow for a wide range of kids to rip the little YZ as they continue to grow and develop their skills on the same platform. Additionally, a new front brake line and routing improves braking feel while updated wave-style rotors offer better cooling and self-cleaning while out on the track. Updated KYB 36mm fully-adjustable coil-spring forks along with a fully-adjustable KYB link-type shock handles the bump absorption as riders race to the victorYZone.
The 2019 YZ85 will be available in Team Yamaha Blue in June 2018 with an MSRP of $4,599.
Yamaha continues to offer up their widely popular two-stroke MX models again for 2019. The YZ125 and YZ250 are both back in the YZ lineup with the only changes being some bold new graphics for the new model year. They will be available in Team Yamaha Blue in June 2018 for an MSRP of $6,499 and $7,399 respectively.
Stay tuned as we expect more new bike launches and first ride impressions in the coming months!
