First Look: 2022 Yamaha Motocross and Cross Country Bikes 4

Minor changes to the four-strokes and a surprising amount of new stuff on the YZ125!

Vital MX: Seems like the 2022 Yamaha YZs have been worth the wait! The 2022 YZ250F and YZ450F get a slimmed down rear wheel and drive train aimed at reducing unsprung weight, with suspension changes to match. The YZ250FX gets all the changes that the YZ250F received last year (updated engine and frame). Surprisingly, Yamaha also made a ton of changes to the YZ125, including a mostly new powerplant, new bodywork, new suspension settings and more. The only major component that doesn't seem to be changed is the frame. The 2022 YZ250 returns with changes as well, though not as many as the YZ125. The YZ250's motor seems to be left alone, but it gets updated bodywork with new plastics and a new seat along with the same lightweight rear wheel and drive train changes seen on the four-strokes. There is also a new YZ85LW (large wheel) and an updated YZ85, both with new bodywork, aluminum subframes, and a host of other refinements. Lastly, all four of the full-size YZs (YZ250F, YZ450F, YZ125 and YZ250) are now offered in the Monster Energy version with the green claw graphics. Lots to dig into, we're stoked!

 


Yamaha Announces New 2022 Four-Stroke Off-Road Lineup

With Exciting Updates to the Class-Leading YZ450F, YZ250F and YZ250FX

MARIETTA, Ga. – July 8, 2021 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, is proud to introduce the new 2022 lineup of advanced, industry-leading four-stroke motocross and cross country motorcycles—bikes designed to offer cutting-edge performance for the highest levels of competition, along with the type of refinement and rideability that brings out the best in every rider. Highlights for 2022 include exciting updates to the class-defining YZ250F and YZ450F competition motocross models and a wide range of improvements to the highly capable YZ250FX cross country model. For the YZ250FX, improved engine performance, new optimized fuel injection maps, frame and chassis refinements, and updated brake components all add to the dynamic abilities of the ultimate 250-class cross country racer. For the YZ250F and YZ450F, targeted reductions in unsprung weight aim to further enhance the motocross models’ already celebrated handling and suspension character. Across the board, Yamaha four-strokes offer an unmatched level of off-road performance and reliability.

“Yamaha has always been at the forefront of four-stroke off-road motorcycle design and we are thrilled to see that continue with the new 2022 lineup of high performance four-strokes,” said Derek Brooks, Yamaha Motorsports Motorcycle Product Line Manager. “Building on the race-proven success of the YZ450F and YZ250F, key improvements to the 2022 models look to raise that bar even higher. And on the cross country side, extensive changes to the already potent YZ250FX will position this model as a natural choice for riders looking to dominate XC2 competition.” 

Welcome to the victorYZone

Yamaha’s off-road competition bikes offer the very latest in technology with performance features designed to help racing enthusiasts reach their maximum potential, win races and stand on top of the podium. 

New 2022 YZ250F: $8,499 MSRP. 

2022 Yamaha YZ250F

New wider rear rim, with a new spoke pattern, lighter rear hub, and lighter final drive components.

Fresh off dominating the 2021 Supercross season, the new 2022 Yamaha YZ250F sees a handful of key updates to make the benchmark-setting motocrosser even better. Beginning with the rear wheel, a new 2.15-inch wide rear rim pairs with a premium 110-width Dunlop® Geomax MX33 tire to serve up a wider footprint, increased traction and better bump absorption under hard acceleration and cornering. In a first on a Yamaha off-road competition model, a new three-cross spoke pattern on the rear wheel further improves impact absorption and overall feel. The rear wheel hub has been reengineered to be thinner and lighter while still retaining strength. Together with a new lightweight rear sprocket design and new lightweight drive chain, unsprung weight and driveline inertia is reduced for more responsive handling. 

The YZ250F's class-leading suspension takes another step forward with revised suspension settings aimed at striking the perfect balance between the wider rear tire and lightened rear wheel assembly. That means increased stability on corner entry/exit and improved bump reaction, further enhancing the game-changing performance of the YZ250F’s advanced, fully adjustable KYB® suspension. Also new for 2022, an updated premium graphics scheme features aggressive Yamaha Blue and dark blue embedded graphics, both highlighting the YZ's competitive intentions and providing excellent durability and scratch resistance. Blacked-out radiator louvers further add to the aggressive new look. 

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Updates add to the long list of race-ready features that make the YZ250F a consistent top pick in the ultra-competitive 250cc class. The advanced liquid-cooled four-stroke powerplant features a forward-positioned straight downdraft intake with symmetrical intake ports, high-spec piston, aggressive cam profiles and reversed cylinder head layout, providing broad, useable powerband and class-leading low-end and mid-range torque. Helping racers dial in the perfect power delivery for different track conditions, Yamaha’s industry-leading free-of-charge Power Tuner app puts the flexibility and precision tunability of the GYTR® Power Tuner into your smartphone. Make fueling and ignition timing changes instantly and upload them to the bike for ultimate track-side tuning. A convenient handlebar-mounted map switch then allows the rider to quickly select between two uploaded maps for immediate on-the-fly adjustments. 

The YZ250F's highly refined chassis is based on a lightweight aluminum bilateral beam frame with main spars, engine mounts and mounting position designed to centralize mass and provide an ideal balance between cornering feel and straight-line rigidity. Exceptional braking power and feel is achieved through the same high performance braking components fitted to its open-class YZ450F sibling. It all adds up to an extremely capable and well-rounded package that gives racers the edge right out of the gate. 

2022 Yamaha YZ250F

2022 YZ250F features and benefits

  • Supercross championship winning performance is track-ready straight out of the box
  • Advanced four-stroke engine featuring high-spec piston, aggressive cam profiles and reversed cylinder head layout is known for its broad, useable powerband and class-leading low-end and mid-range torque
  • Industry-leading Yamaha Power Tuner app allows instant fueling and ignition timing changes on your smartphone for ultimate track-side tuning
  • Two-mode adjustable engine mapping allows rider to select between two tuneable engine maps at the push of a button
  • Aluminum bilateral beam frame centralizes mass and provides an ideal balance between cornering compliance and straight-line stability
  • New lightweight rear hub, rear sprocket and drive chain reduce unsprung weight and driveline inertia, contributing to more agile handling
  • Rigid front caliper, large-diameter pistons and large 270mm front brake rotor and 240mm rear rotor work with aggressive pad material for exceptional stopping power and braking control
  • New 2.15-inch wide rear rim paired with a premium 110-width Dunlop® Geomax MX33 tire serves up increased traction and improved bump absorption under hard acceleration and cornering
  • Fully adjustable KYB® coil spring-type fork with speed-sensitive damping and linkage-type KYB® shock offer best-in-class suspension performance
  • Revised suspension settings strike the perfect balance between the wider rear tire and lightened rear wheel assembly for increased stability on corner entry/exit and improved bump reaction
  • New three-cross-spoke pattern on the rear wheel further improves impact absorption and overall feel
  • Convenient push-button electric start provides effortless restarts
  • Sleek air cleaner cover provides tool-free access to the air filter
  • Large-diameter clutch to boost reliability under high-heat conditions
  • Lightweight aluminum tapered handlebar
  • Four-position adjustable handlebar mounts
  • Compact bodywork including a narrow fuel tank and comfortable knee grip for better control
  • New premium Yamaha Blue and dark blue graphics scheme is embedded to provide excellent durability and scratch resistance

 

The new 2022 YZ250F will be available from dealers this July in next-generation Team Yamaha Blue for $8,499 MSRP. 

New 2022 YZ450F: $9,599 MSRP.

2022 Yamaha YZ450F

For the new 2022 YZ450F, Yamaha builds on the already class-leading performance of its flagship motocross machine by reducing unsprung weight through the adoption of a lighter rear wheel assembly and drive train parts, contributing to more responsive handling. With the YZ450F’s traditional strong points of exceptional power delivery, class-defining suspension performance and trademark solid and precise handling character all either carried over or improved, the result is a bike now even better equipped to dominate the competition. 

Updates for 2022 begin with a new, redesigned rear wheel hub. The cast aluminum hub has been engineered to be thinner and lighter while maintaining strength. It combines with a redesigned lightweight rear sprocket and new lightweight drive chain to reduce unsprung weight and driveline inertia. The YZ450F also receives the newly introduced three-cross spoke pattern on the rear wheel for improved impact absorption and overall feel. 

New, revised suspension settings take full advantage of the lightened rear wheel assembly, increasing stability on corner entry/exit, improving bump reaction and further enhancing best-in-class suspension performance. The YZ450F’s advanced, fully adjustable KYB® coil spring-type fork with speed-sensitive damping and linkage-type KYB® shock also add to its impeccable handling character. Finally, a sharp new Yamaha Blue and dark blue graphics scheme adds a modern, aggressive style and features premium embedded graphics for excellent durability and scratch resistance. 

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Other features including the compact, powerful liquid-cooled 450cc four-stroke engine, finely tuned lightweight aluminum bilateral beam frame and high performance braking system all carry over from the class-leading 2021 YZ450F. Along with a host of advanced technical features including Yamaha’s revolutionary and free-of-charge Power Tuner App with convenient handlebar-mounted dual-mode engine map switch for selecting between customizable ECU maps, Yamaha’s innovative Launch Control System for flawless race starts and a convenient push-button electric starter system with high-capacity ultra-light lithium-ion battery, the new YZ450F continues as the most complete, most well-balanced, most capable bike in the 450 class. 

2022 Yamaha YZ450F

2022 YZ450F features and benefits

  • The ultimate open-class YZ, the 2022 YZ450F is built to win races with the best power delivery and suspension performance in the class
  • Featuring a distinct rearward-slanted cylinder design, the compact, torquey liquid-cooled 450cc four-stroke engine provides a broad, usable powerband and exceptional controllability
  • Industry-leading Yamaha Power Tuner app allows instant fueling and ignition timing changes on your smartphone for ultimate track-side tuning
  • Two-mode adjustable engine mapping allows rider to select between two tuneable engine maps at the push of a button
  • Aluminum bilateral beam frame is designed to optimize overall rigidity balance for excellent handling, especially in fast, bumpy conditions
  • The rigid front caliper, compact rear caliper work with aggressive pad compounds and increased rotor contact area to provide exceptional brake feel and control
  • New lightweight rear hub, rear sprocket and drive chain reduce unsprung weight, driveline inertia and contribute to more agile handling
  • Fully adjustable KYB® coil spring-type fork with speed-sensitive damping and linkage-type KYB® shock offer best-in-class suspension performance
  • Revised suspension settings take full advantage of the lightened rear wheel assembly to increase stability on corner entry/exit and improve bump reaction
  • New three-cross-spoke pattern on the rear wheel further improves impact absorption and overall feel
  • Innovative Launch Control System optimizes engine output for quicker, smoother race starts every time
  • Convenient push-button electric start provides effortless restarts
  • Lightweight aluminum tapered handlebar
  • Rubber-mounted four-position adjustable handlebar mounts reduce vibration
  • Compact bodywork including a narrow fuel tank and flat seat for better control
  • New premium Yamaha Blue and dark blue graphics scheme is embedded to provide excellent durability and scratch resistance
  • Race-developed Dunlop® Geomax MX33 tires

The new 2022 YZ450F will be available from dealers this July in next-generation Team Yamaha Blue for $9,599 MSRP.

2022 Monster Energy® Yamaha Racing Edition YZ250F & YZ450F

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Yamaha brings the factory ride look back for 2022 with the return of the Monster Energy® Yamaha Racing Edition YZ250F and Monster Energy® Yamaha Racing Edition YZ450F. With a sharp, race-team-inspired color and graphics package, riders can stand out from the crowd with the livery of Yamaha’s championship-winning Supercross and Motocross teams. The new 2022 Monster Energy® Yamaha Racing Edition YZ250F and Monster Energy® Yamaha Racing Edition YZ450F will both be available from dealers this July for $8,699 and $9,799 MSRP, respectively.

2022 YZ250FX: $8,799 MSRP.

2022 Yamaha YZ250FX

The new 2022 Yamaha YZ250FX boasts a number of improvements pulled directly from the Supercross dominating YZ250F motocrosser, handing cross country and enduro enthusiasts an extremely capable, competition-ready machine straight out of the box. From stronger engine performance, to the highly refined cross-country-tuned chassis, to an improved high performance brake setup, the new 2022 YZ250FX is squarely aimed at winning races at all levels of XC competition. 

Building on the already potent liquid-cooled 250cc four-stroke engine, the new YZ250FX churns out even stronger mid- to high-range power thanks to an improved air intake, wider intake port, redesigned exhaust camshaft and improved muffler design. Ensuring power gets down precisely when you need it, a six-speed transmission features gearing ratios optimized for cross country demands, and a large-diameter heavy-duty clutch means enhanced durability in extreme racing conditions. To keep the power in check, an updated lightweight braking system features larger front pistons, a more rigid caliper, a redesigned 270mm front rotor with a 30% increase in pad contact area and higher friction pad material, all combining to provide exceptional braking power and feel. The redesigned rear rotor maintains the same braking power while dropping outer diameter from 245mm to 240mm, further reducing unsprung weight with no compromise on performance. 

The YZ250FX comes preloaded with two optimized engine maps—one for fast, aggressive high-traction conditions and one with a smoother engine character for extreme, low-traction conditions—which can be easily selected on-the-fly with a handlebar-mounted map switch. Maps can be altered using Yamaha’s innovative Power Tuner app, allowing riders to make fueling and ignition timing changes instantly and upload them to the bike for the ultimate track-side tuning. 

The highly developed aluminum bilateral beam frame is taken straight from the class-leading YZ250F, then further tuned for cross country performance with improvements to the engine mounting brackets. Already known for its unmatched suspension performance, the new YZ250FX features high-spec KYB® fully adjustable spring-type forks with speed-sensitive damping and a linkage-type KYB® rear shock both tuned specifically for cross country racing. It all contributes to the model’s trademark front-end feel and exceptional cornering performance. Adding to the long list of features that increase cross country capability, comfort and convenience are the push-button electric starter, modified balancer weight for reduced vibration, large 2.16-gallon fuel tank for increased range, fuel level warning indicator, heavy-duty composite engine guard, rubber-mounted handlebar clamps, 18-inch rear wheel, sealed O-ring chain and a folding aluminum kickstand. Finally, a sharp new graphics scheme highlights the YZ lineage with premium Yamaha Blue and dark blue embedded graphics, providing excellent durability and scratch resistance. 

2022 YZ250FX features and benefits

  • Liquid-cooled 250cc four-stroke churns out stronger mid- to high-range power thanks to an improved air intake, wider intake port, redesigned exhaust camshaft, improved muffler and optimized ECU settings
  • Industry-leading and free-of-charge Yamaha Power Tuner app allows instant fueling and ignition timing changes on your smartphone for ultimate track-side tuning
  • Two-mode adjustable engine mapping allows rider to select between two tuneable engine maps at the push of a button
  • The highly developed aluminum bilateral beam frame taken from the class-leading YZ250F has been tuned for cross country performance and modified to match the more powerful engine
  • Class-leading KYB® fully adjustable spring-type forks with speed-sensitive damping and linkage-type KYB® rear shock have been thoroughly tested and tuned specifically for cross country racing
  • A new, more rigid front caliper and compact rear caliper work with new discs and new pad material to boost brake feel and controllability, while the new 240mm rear brake rotor dissipates heat more efficiently for more consistent racing performance
  • New high-capacity muffler improves high-rpm power delivery while providing a deep, throaty exhaust note
  • Position of the balancer weight has been adjusted to reduce vibration in the low- to mid-rpm range for less rider fatigue and increased long-distance comfort
  • Convenient push-button electric start provides effortless restarts
  • Heavy-duty, large-diameter clutch for enhanced durability in extreme cross country conditions
  • Large 2.16-gallon fuel tank for increased range along with a convenient low fuel indicator light
  • Lightweight aluminum handlebar
  • Rubber-mounted four-position adjustable handlebar mounts reduce vibration
  • New premium Yamaha Blue and dark blue graphics scheme is embedded to provide excellent durability and scratch resistance
  • Race-developed Dunlop® Geomax MX33 tires 

The new 2022 YZ250FX will be available from dealers this October in next-generation Team Yamaha Blue for $8,799 MSRP.

2022 YZ450FX: $9,899 MSRP.

2022 Yamaha YZ450FX

The competition-dominating Yamaha YZ450FX is back for 2022. Developed from Yamaha’s flagship YZ450F motocross model, the YZ450FX includes a host of added features and unique settings designed with the goal of creating the ultimate XC racer. It all starts with the renowned 450cc, liquid-cooled, Yamaha four-stroke engine. The ultra-compact powerplant features a distinct rearward-slanted cylinder design—complete with rear exhaust and forward-mounted down-draft intake system. The cylinder head design works with the frame geometry to centralize mass and optimize weight distribution. Internally, the engine features a straight intake tract, aggressive cam profiles, a high-compression “box bridge” piston design with DLC-coated piston pin, all contributing to its fun, torquey character and broad, usable powerband. The YZ450FX also features Yamaha’s industry-leading and free-of-charge  Power Tuner app, allowing cross country racers to make fueling and ignition timing changes instantly and upload them to the bike straight from their smartphone for the ultimate track-side tuning. Then, a handlebar-mounted map switch allows riders to quickly select between two preloaded engine maps for on-the-fly adjustments to changing riding conditions. 

The latest evolution of Yamaha’s lightweight aluminum bilateral beam frame features precisely tuned flex characteristics that give riders the ultimate combination of cornering performance, traction feel and bump stability. Fully adjustable KYB® coil spring-type fork with speed sensitive damping and linkage-type KYB® rear shock provide best-in-class suspension performance, specifically tuned for optimum cross country performance. Bringing things to a stop, the YZ450FX’s rigid front caliper and compact rear caliper work with aggressive pad compounds and lightweight rotors to provide exceptional braking power and controllability, dissipate heat more efficiently in racing conditions and reduce unsprung weight. 

To further showcase the YZ450FX’s cross country edge, convenient features like push-button electric start, fuel level warning indicator, composite engine guard, rubber-mounted handlebar clamps, 18-inch rear wheel, sealed O-ring chain and a folding aluminum kickstand all come standard.

The new 2022 Y450FX will be available from dealers this September in next-generation Team Yamaha Blue for $9,899 MSRP.



Yamaha Announces Expanded Lineup of 2022 Two-Stroke Motocross Bikes

Updated Two-Strokes Include New YZ125, New Large-Wheel YZ85 And Monster Energy® Yamaha Racing Editions

MARIETTA, Ga. – July 8, 2021 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, USA, is proud to announce the expansion of its benchmark-setting two-stroke motocross lineup, highlighted by a new version of the race-bred YZ125. Features include a powerful new 125cc two-stroke engine, improved suspension, updated brakes, enhanced ergonomics, and new modern YZ styling including updated bodywork with premium embedded graphics. This marks the first full model change for the revered YZ125 in more than 15 years and positions it back at the top of the 125cc two-stroke class by offering the perfect blend of race-winning performance and real-world usability. 

Other notable changes to Yamaha’s lineup of race-ready two strokes include an improved YZ85 and a new-for-2022 YZ85LW (Large Wheel) model, offering enhanced off-road performance and a more “big-bike” feel through the addition of a larger 19-inch front wheel, 16-inch rear wheel and longer swingarm. Both 2022 YZ85 models feature enhanced rider ergonomics, a more efficient intake design, lightweight aluminum subframe and swingarm, updated rear brake master cylinder, and new modern seat and plastics with premium graphics reflecting the YZ’s unmatched racing heritage. 

Additionally, Yamaha’s flagship YZ250 two-stroke receives an enhanced lightweight braking system, updated suspension settings, improved ergonomic design with updated, modern YZ styling and new premium graphics. Yamaha is also proud to extend the popular Monster Energy® Yamaha Racing Editions to the two-stroke lineup with the new 2022 Monster Energy® Yamaha Racing Edition YZ250 and 2022 Monster Energy® Yamaha Racing Edition YZ125, offering two-stroke aficionados the opportunity to sport the Yamaha factory look of our championship-winning  Monster Energy® Star Yamaha Racing team.  

“At Yamaha, two-strokes are in our blood. That’s why we continue to develop and offer a full range of off-road two-strokes, and why we are so excited about these important new updates to our lineup” said Derek Brooks, Yamaha Motorcycle Product Line Manager. “These bikes are all about providing the fun and exhilaration of a lightweight, powerful two-stroke to the next generation of riders. We feel that Yamaha YZ two-strokes will continue to play an integral role in developing young riders and building future champions.” 

Welcome to the victorYZone

Yamaha’s off-road competition bikes offer the very latest in technology with performance features designed to help racing enthusiasts reach their maximum potential, win races and stand on top of the podium. 

New 2022 YZ125: $6,899 MSRP.

2022 Yamaha YZ125

2022 Yamaha YZ125

The new 2022 YZ125 represents an important evolution in Yamaha’s two-stroke lineage. As the first full model change to the iconic YZ125 in more than 15 years, Yamaha designers and engineers put considerable thought into developing a motorcycle that would be both dominant on the racetrack and user-friendly for developing riders looking to bridge the gap between recreation riding and competitive motocross. The result is a significantly better YZ125. 

It starts with a new, more powerful liquid-cooled 125cc two-stroke engine. Every functional part of the 2022 YZ125 engine is new, including the cylinder body, cylinder head, piston, piston pin, connecting rod, crankcase and expansion chamber. It all adds up to increased power across the mid- to high-rpm range. Enhancing fueling and power delivery, a new high-precision Hitachi Astemo® Keihin PWK38S carburetor with throttle position sensor and 3D-map-controlled CDI unit provide clean, crisp throttle response and superior rideability. A new intake design with VForce4 carbon reed valve leads to a more efficient draw of air into the engine for an improved feeling of power in the high rpm range. 

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To match increased engine performance, an updated lightweight braking system features larger front pistons, a more rigid caliper, a redesigned 270mm front rotor with a 30% increase in pad contact area and higher friction pad material, all combining to provide exceptional braking power and feel. A redesigned rear rotor maintains the same braking power while dropping outer diameter from 245mm to 240mm, reducing unsprung weight without compromising performance. Taking the YZ125's category-defining suspension and handling characteristics to a new level, front and rear suspension damping has been revised to further improve bump absorption and cornering performance. Best-in-class KYB® suspension includes an inverted front fork, now with new fork internals for more precise damping. 

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A new flatter seat and more narrow fuel tank design, along with smoothly integrated body panels and slimmer radiator shroud width all combine to enable greater freedom of movement forward and back, allowing the rider to easily shift body weight for increased control and confidence. Emphasizing the YZ125’s mission to win races, a bold, aggressive Yamaha Blue and dark blue colorway with premium embedded graphics ensure excellent durability and scratch resistance. 

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2022 YZ125 features and benefits

  • Redesigned liquid-cooled Yamaha Power Valve System (YPVS)-equipped 125cc two-stroke engine boasts more power in the mid- to high-range for increased usability over the previous model
  • New high-precision Hitachi Astemo® Keihin PWK38S carburetor features throttle position sensor and 3D-map-controlled CDI unit resulting in crisp throttle response and superior rideability
  • New straight intake design improves power output, letting the rider feel an excellent pull in the higher revs and a strong sense of over-rev
  • New shorter, lighter muffler
  • High performance brake setup features more rigid front caliper, larger front pistons and redesigned rotors with increased pad contact area for exceptional stopping power and feel, along with less unsprung weight
  • Improved rider ergonomics with a more narrow tank, flatter seat and slimmer radiator shrouds offering greater freedom of movement
  • Fully adjustable KYB® inverted front fork now includes a leaf spring in the mid-speed valve for increased performance and comfort
  • Revised fully adjustable KYB® rear shock features reduced-friction Kashima Coat™ internals
  • Race-proven, highly developed forged aluminum semi-double cradle frame
  • Removable aluminum rear subframe constructed of square-section tubing for reduced weight
  • Lightweight finely tuned chassis for nimble handling, more control and less rider fatigue
  • Revised six-speed, close-ratio transmission has wider transmission gear tooth width and new, optimized gear ratios for maximum performance
  • New lightweight rear sprocket design
  • New lightweight chain
  • High-capacity radiator features a 10-row core with blacked-out louvers to deliver maximum cooling and aggressive looks
  • Lightweight aluminum handlebar with two-position adjustable handlebar clamp
  • Adjustable clutch lever with works-style cable adjuster
  • New premium graphics are now embedded for improved durability and scratch resistance
  • Race-developed Bridgestone® Battlecross X20 tires

 The new 2022 YZ125 will be available from dealers this October in next-generation Team Yamaha Blue for $6,899 MSRP.

New 2022 YZ85 & YZ85LW: 

2022 Yamaha YZ85 and YZ85LW

As an important entry into the world of competitive motocross, the YZ85 has long been the mini race bike of choice for future champions. Light, nimble and fun with a high performance two‑stroke engine and top shelf suspension, it serves up big-bike spec in a small bike package. Along with its proven liquid-cooled YPVS-equipped 85cc powerplant, fully adjustable suspension and large diameter brakes, the new 2022 YZ85 boasts numerous enhancements to expand its overall performance. 

2022 Yamaha YZ85

Rider ergonomics have been improved by way of a new, more narrow tank design, flatter seat, new side covers and slimmer, symmetrically sized radiator shrouds. This enables greater freedom of movement for smooth shifting of body weight and better machine control. Along with the new bodywork, a sharp, new premium graphics scheme inspired by its YZ125 sibling highlights its distinctive race-bred YZ DNA. The redesigned seat and rear bodywork also enable an updated rear-positioned straight-through intake for an improved feeling of power in the low rpm range. 

2022 Yamaha YZ85LW

For demanding junior racers, the new YZ85 has been enhanced in several key chassis areas to optimize strength and rigidity, including revisions to the main frame, swingarm and rear wheel axle. The aluminum swingarm was redesigned to enhance balance between longitudinal and torsional rigidity for improved handling stability. A new removable rear subframe constructed from lightweight, high-strength aluminum reduces weight. The rear brake master cylinder now has a built-in sub-reservoir providing more linear brake response and increased control. 

New for 2022, the YZ85 Large Wheel (LW) model takes the race-winning YZ85 formula and enhances off-road capability even more with the addition of a larger 19-inch front wheel and 16-inch rear wheel wrapped in high performance 70/100/19 front and 90/100/16 rear Dunlop® MX3S tires. A longer swingarm accommodates the larger rear wheel and increases handling stability. The YZ85LW is designed to be the ideal transition between the standard YZ85 and the full size YZ125, perfect for those advanced 85cc riders looking for a more "big-bike" feel. 

2022 YZ85 & YZ85LW features and benefits

  • Improved rider ergonomics with a more narrow tank, flatter seat and slimmer, symmetrical shrouds offering greater freedom of movement
  • New straight intake design improves feeling of power in the low rpm range
  • New removable lightweight aluminum rear subframe is 570g lighter than previous steel frame
  • Redesigned aluminum swingarm improves longitudinal and torsional rigidity
  • New rear brake master cylinder design with built-in sub-reservoir provides more linear brake response
  • New premium graphics are now embedded for improved durability and scratch resistance
  • New lightweight handlebar is 40g lighter than previous model
  • Four-position handlebar mounts adjust to suit rider preference
  • Advanced 85cc two-stroke engine features the Yamaha Power Valve System for broad power delivery
  • Crankcase design features a spacer-style reed valve intake for improved air/gas flow
  • Hitachi Astemo® Keihin PWK28 flat-slide carburetor offers seamless throttle response
  • Race-proven KYB® inverted cartridge fork and KYB® rear shock are fully adjustable
  • Big 220mm and 190mm wave-rotor disc brakes offer precise control and one-finger stopping power
  • Transmission features oversized gears for enhanced engagement and smoother shifts
  • Blue lightweight rims are stylish, durable, reduce unsprung weight and come wrapped in high performance Dunlop® MX3S tires
  • High-capacity lightweight radiator has large cores for efficiency and new blacked-out louvers for a more aggressive look

The new 2022 YZ85 and YZ85LW will both be available from dealers this December in next-generation Team Yamaha Blue for $4,799 and $4,999 MSRP, respectively. 

New 2022 YZ250: $7,799 MSRP. 

2022 Yamaha YZ250

Yamaha’s race-tested YZ250 two-stroke is already known for its fast, powerful engine, plush suspension, class-leading handling and rider friendly character. With significant updates for 2022, it’s now even better. Beginning with improved rider ergonomics, a more narrow fuel tank, flatter seat, slimmer radiator shrouds and new side covers all contribute to greater freedom of movement front to back and easier weight transfer. Changes to the seat and bodywork have also enabled a new, straighter intake design, allowing a more efficient intake path to the engine for a better feeling of power in the high rpm range. 

The YZ250's already renowned suspension and handling performance takes another step forward with revised front and rear suspension damping to enhance bump absorption and cornering agility. An updated brake setup includes a more rigid front caliper, larger front pistons, a redesigned 270mm front rotor with a 30% increase in pad contact area and higher friction pad material, all combining to provide exceptional braking power and feel. A redesigned rear rotor maintains the same braking power while dropping outer diameter from 245mm to 240mm, further reducing unsprung weight with no compromise on performance. 

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Wrapping up the package, a premium new Yamaha Blue and dark blue embedded graphics scheme provides excellent durability and scratch resistance while accentuating the YZ's racing pedigree. The 2022 YZ250 retains the fast and fun liquid-cooled YPVS-equipped 249cc two-stroke powerplant, the compact chassis and meticulously developed lightweight aluminum frame, and the intuitive handling character and all-around usability that’s made it a favorite among both competitive motocross racers and recreational riders alike. 

2022 YZ250 features and benefits

  • Improved rider ergonomics with a narrow tank, flatter seat and slimmer radiator shrouds offering greater freedom of movement
  • Advanced liquid-cooled YPVS-equipped 249cc two-stroke engine is lightweight, compact and fun, with a wide, hard-hitting powerband
  • New straight intake design improves power output, letting the rider feel an excellent pull in the higher revs and a strong sense of over-rev
  • Advanced Hitachi Astemo® Keihin PWK38S carburetor with power jet and throttle position sensor provides extra-crisp throttle response
  • High performance brake setup features larger front pistons, more rigid caliper and redesigned rotors with increased pad contact area for exceptional stopping power and feel, along with less unsprung weight
  • Fully adjustable KYB® fork features the Speed-Sensitive System for precise handling and superb shock absorption
  • Revised fully adjustable KYB® rear shock features reduced-friction Kashima Coat™ internals
  • Race-proven, highly developed forged aluminum semi-double cradle frame
  • Removable aluminum rear subframe constructed of square-section tubing for reduced weight
  • Finely tuned lightweight chassis and advanced suspension endow the YZ250 with class-leading handling
  • Smooth-shifting, five-speed, close-ratio transmission ensures confident gear changes in all conditions
  • New lightweight rear sprocket design
  • New lightweight chain
  • High-capacity radiator features a 10-row core with blacked-out louvers to deliver maximum cooling and aggressive looks
  • Lightweight aluminum handlebar with two-position adjustable handlebar clamp
  • Adjustable clutch lever with works-style cable adjuster
  • Premium new graphics are now embedded for improved durability and scratch resistance
  • Race-developed Dunlop® Geomax MX33 tires

The new 2022 YZ250 will be available from dealers this July in next-generation Team Yamaha Blue for $7,799 MSRP. 

New 2022 Monster Energy® Yamaha Racing Edition YZ250 & YZ125

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For 2022, Yamaha brings the factory ride look to the two-stroke lineup with the new Monster Energy® Yamaha Racing Edition YZ250 and Monster Energy® Yamaha Racing Edition YZ125. With a sharp, race-team-inspired color and graphics package, riders can stand out from the crowd with the livery of Yamaha’s championship-winning Supercross team. The new 2022 Monster Energy® Yamaha Racing Edition YZ250 will be available from dealers this July for $7,999 MSRP and the new 2022 Monster Energy® Yamaha Racing Edition YZ125 will be available from dealers this November for $7,099 MSRP. 

2022 Cross Country YZ125X & YZ250X:

2022 Yamaha YZ125X

2022 Yamaha YZ250X

Yamaha’s YZ125X and YZ250X models return for 2022 to give cross country and enduro enthusiasts two class-leading, competition-ready two-stroke options. Optimized for the unique demands of cross country racing, the YZ125X and YZ250X feature the Yamaha Power Valve System for exhilarating two-stroke power, paired with precise, smooth-shifting transmissions and carefully considered ratios to put that power down exactly when needed for exceptional usability. A lightweight aluminum frame hosts the industry-leading fully adjustable, KYB® speed sensitive spring-type suspension that is tuned specifically to meet the rigorous demands of cross country racing. The 18-inch rear wheel, sealed O-ring chain and high performance off-road tires mean the YZ125X and YZ250X are ready for GNCC® and Hare Scramble competition straight out of the box. 

The 2022 YZ250X will be available from dealers this July in next-generation Team Yamaha Blue for $7,799 MSRP and the 2022 YZ125X will be available from dealers this August in next-generation Team Yamaha Blue for $6,799 MSRP.


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