Kit Palmer | February 10, 2018
2018 Yamaha YZ65 First Look – Yamaha’s 2018 motocross line is now complete with the introduction of the all-new Yamaha YZ65. Yamaha took the wraps of it in the pits during the San Diego Supercross.
2018 Yamaha YZ65 First Look
“With the addition of this exciting new youth motocross bike, aspiring young riders who are beginning to experience the thrill of competition can do so as members of the bLU cRU,” said Yamaha Motorcycle Product Line Manager, Derek Brooks. “This all-new bike builds on Yamaha’s renowned history of performance and durability, which translates into great value for parents and endless moto fun for their kids.”
2018 Yamaha YZ65 First Look
RELEASE
All-New Engine
The 2018 YZ65 utilizes a new 64.8cc liquid-cooled, two-stroke engine that features a case reed-valve intake and a mechanical Yamaha Power Valve System (YPVS). Designed for performance and ease of use, the new YZ’s engine also provides confidence to go the distance thanks to Yamaha’s unparalleled durability and reliability.
All-New Chassis and Optimized Ergonomics
The newly-designed semi-double-cradle steel frame, removable aluminum subframe and aluminum swing-arm of the YZ65 provide a nimble feel and confident handling. The ergonomics feature a flat, comfortable seat and four-position adjustable aluminum tapered handlebars to provide comfort and ease of movement for a wide range of young rider sizes. Continuing in the YZ design language of horizontal lines, the styling of the body, color and graphics are like those of Yamaha’s flagship YZ450F.
Easily Tuned KYB Coil Spring Suspension
The all-new YZ65 features a race-proven, fully adjustable 36mm KYB coil spring fork design, which provides exceptional handling, bump absorption and ease of set-up for race-winning performance. The KYB shock utilizes specially designed damping characteristics to match the new chassis.
Price, Color and Availability
The all-new 2018 YZ65 will be available in Team Yamaha Blue and arrive at Yamaha dealers starting in April 2018, making it eligible for this year’s Loretta Lynn’s Amateur Motocross National Championship, with a MSRP of $4599.
2018 Yamaha YZ65 First Look
SPECIFICATIONS ($4599)
2018 Yamaha YZ65
Engine: Liquid-cooled, 2-stroke, reed-valve inducted, single
Displacement: 65cc
Bore x Stroke: 43.5mm X 43.6mm
Compression Ratio: 8.1-9.1:1
Fuel Delivery: Keihin PWK28 carburetor
Transmission: 6-speed
Clutch: Multiplate wet clutch
Front Suspension: 36mm KYB coil-spring, adj. compression and rebound damping
Rear Suspension: Single shock, adj. compression and rebound damping
Front Wheel Travel: 8.5 in.
Rear Wheel Travel: 10.6 in.
Front Brake: 198mm hydraulic disc
Rear Brake: 190mm hydraulic disc
Front Tire: Maxxis Maxxcross SI
Rear Tire: Maxxis Maxxcross SI
Seat Height: 29.5 in.
Wheelbase: 45.0 in.
Rake: 26.4°
Trail: 2.5 in.
Ground Clearance: 10.5 in.
Fuel Capacity: 0.9 gal.
Wet Weight: 134 lbs.
Dry Weight: 128 lbs.
2018 Yamaha YZ65 First Look
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