I was wondering if anyone had any input on slip-ons for this 26 YZF. I like the quieter exhaust note and I much prefer the smoother initial delivery, over the '25 bike. So I have no problems keeping it stock. But I saw a few reviews that claimed an exhaust can help make 3rd a bit more useable (and 2nd run a bit longer) to help it feel a bit more like the '25 in that manner. That's the only downside that I have felt on the '26. I have no desire to open the bike up with the airbox, tune and full system etc. I don't want it to lose the stock rideability. I was just thinking if the 4.1 FMF or Yosh RS12 slip-ons (which appear to be '26 model specific) keep the sound low, and keep the initial smoothness, but give 3rd a bit more pull, I'd consider. The problem is, I can't tell if the added power only comes with the insert removed. If that's the case, I probably wouldn't bother. Also, I don't want to make the mapping dirty, as it runs very clean and smooth, stock. Just looking for input from those who may know. Thanks.
Yep....i just went through all of this. I had a 2024 YZ450 and i loved it. Once it houred out i sold it and got the 2026. The bike felt so different to me. They changed the gearing and added 2 teeth to the rear sprocket. Now...second was too short and third needed more juice.
I changed the airbox with the GYTR kit for $120. That helped a little but not enough of a noticeable difference. I then added the FMF muffler and now the bike is back to it's old power. It does burp and pop a little but i'm sure i'll be able to tune that out with the tuner app.
This extra power allowed me to go down a tooth and get closer to what i liked about the 2024. FMF exhaust made a huge difference. It's a little louder but not terrible. Any questions?
All good to know. Thank you. I think the thing for me is, this is my first 450 in a while. And I was on the fence about it. I rode the 23-25 a couple times and really liked it but just felt like it was a bit to jumpy for me, to transition over to. The '26 seemed like more what I was looking for, if I did go to a 450. And it mostly has been perfect. I did ride a tighter track though and really struggled. I noticed the 2nd to 3rd gap and really didn't feel comfortable just yet, to be aggressive in 2nd over jumps out of corners etc. Some of that may just take time for me to adjust to a 450 in general. But I was just exploring any options that may help that area but I don't want to dirty up the mapping or lose that smooth initial response. Another solution was I've seen the idea of going to a 50 tooth rear and committing more to 2nd in tighter turns. It allows it to extend a bit, but then you are really giving up using 3rd unless it's a flowy corner. Overall I can ride this bike as-is and be happy, so I don't want to screw it up lol. But just was looking for input. I appreciate the response.
I went with the 50 tooth so that second would be more usable. It worked perfectly.
Good to know. I may start there and at least try it. I don't think it would hurt me on the fast tracks that I ride at but should help on the tighter ones (where that gearing gap sort of was noticeable.)
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