Thinking of Getting a 04 YZF 450. Need some info

[zdowell]

Right now I am riding a 04 400ex and I am thinking I need to catch up to the friends with the 450's. I love Honda, but I have owned a Yamaha products like a 01 R6. I was just wondering what are some things to look out for, problems they have, or any recalls.

[squadie]

I went from a KFX400 to a YFZ450. Once you make that step, you can't go back. The quickness and the power are just too good. But it comes at a price. With your 400EX you probably can't get a much more trouble free reliable long term ride. The 450s are going to require a good deal more maintenance. This wasn't a major/widespread issue but I know there were a number of 04/05 YFZs that had failures on the crank bearings. The crank on my 05 almost completely seized this past summer. It was an expensive repair. I had changed my oil every other ride. But my buddy has an 05 and has had no problems at all. Most folks will say you should plan to have the motor rebuilt often. Other forums can give you a better idea of how often. One thing I hate about my 05 YFZ is the chain adjustment mechanism. The 06 and newer YFZs have the same adjustment mechanism as the 400EX. I would recommend you look for an 06 or later YFZ if you want a Yamaha. It comes with a different crank that I'm told is better than the 04/05 crank. Even with the problems I've had, I wouldn't want anything else but a YFZ.

[#17YFZRACER]

the 06+ also have the oil mod that coats the bottom of your piston. the 07s also have pro tapor "fat" bars, they are sweet. get a yfz:bandit:

[James_yfz17]

Originally posted by #17YFZRACER
the 06+ also have the oil mod that coats the bottom of your piston. the 07s also have pro tapor "fat" bars, they are sweet. get a yfz:bandit:

the 07 and up have the oil mod.

[yfzrider45]

the 04's are nice, just make sure the motor runs good and check to see for ANY leaks....i ride an 04 and its just as strong as the 06's i guess.

Jonny

[nyjt400ex]

BUY MINE 3800 firm with a bunch of extras...never raced and runs,rides great

[ECAYFZ450]

DUDE ANY YFZ450 IS AMAZING...YEAH THE '06 HAS A FEW UPGRADES LIKE THE SHOCKS AND SOME MOTOR CHANGES BUT...IT IS WAY MORE POWERFULL THAN A 400EX...IT WILL BE ONE OF THE BEST MOVES TO MAKE!! YAMAHA ALL THE WAY!