2008Yamaha YZ450F

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The 2008 Yamaha YZ450F is a competitive motocross machine designed for intermediate to advanced riders seeking reliable performance and handling. Known for its potent 449cc four-stroke engine with high compression and responsive DOHC fuel control, it delivers strong acceleration across the power band. The lightweight chassis paired with Speed-Sensitive inverted forks and composed geometry makes it ideal for both track racing and off-road training.

Capacity: 449.0 ccm
Engine: Single, four-stroke
Gearbox: 5-speed
Dry weight: 99.3 kg
Seat height: 988 mm
Power: 56.0 HP (41.2 kW)

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Other years 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail97%

Cornering88%

City riding10%

Daily riding10%

Touring10%

Two-up5%

Track90%

Best for: Built purely for motocross racing and hard off-road riding, excelling on tracks and rough terrain rather than street use.
Built for: Sharp, high-revving, and razor-responsive, it rewards committed, active riding with explosive acceleration and precise cornering manners.
Not ideal for: It is not suited for commuting, touring, passengers, or casual low-speed street riding due to its lack of lights, mirrors, and road-going comfort features.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 988mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will not reach the ground comfortably on the 2008 Yamaha YZ450F, with a moderate knee angle of around 90 degrees and an upright riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at over 900 mm — Sky High →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 449.0 ccm
Power: 56.0 HP (41.2 kW)
Engine type: Single, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.5639 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 95.0 x 63.4 mm
Compression: 12.3:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Ignition: CDI
Valves per cylinder: 5
Lubrication system: Dry sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 5-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Multiplate, wet

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1494 mm
Overall length: 2195 mm
Overall width: 826 mm
Overall height: 1306 mm
Seat height: 988 mm
Dry weight: 99.3 kg
Wet weight: 108.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 6.80 litres
Ground clearance: 373 mm
Oil capacity: 1.20 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Wet multi-plate
Front suspension: Speed-Sensitive System inverted fork
Rear suspension: Fully adjustable single shock
Front wheel travel: 300 mm
Rear wheel travel: 312 mm
Rake (fork angle): 26.0°
Trail: 119 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 250 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 245 mm
Front tyre: 80/80-M21
Rear tyre: 120/80-M19

Other

Color options: Team Yamaha Blue/White, White/Red

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	2008	2013	2018	2022	2027
Capacity	449.00 ccm (27.40 cubic inches)	449.00 ccm (27.40 cubic inches)	449.0 ccm (27.40 cubic inches)	449.0 ccm (27.40 cubic inches)	450 ccm (27.5 cubic inches)
Dry weight	99.3 kg (219.0 pounds)	—	—	—	—
Seat height	988 mm (38.9 inches)	1,001 mm (39.4 inches)	975 mm (38.4 inches)	965 mm (38.0 inches)	965 mm (38.0 inches)
Fuel capacity	6.81 litres (1.80 gallons)	6.06 litres (1.60 gallons)	7.57 litres (2.00 gallons)	6.06 litres (1.60 US gallons)	6.06 litres (1.60 US gallons)
Color options	Team Yamaha Blue/White, White/Red	Team Yamaha Blue/White, White/Red	Blue/white, White	Team Yamaha Blue	—