2018 sees the launch of the all-new Yamaha YZ65, one of the most exciting and technologically advanced youth race bikes seen for many years. Featuring an all-new engine and chassis, and benefitting from YZ450F-inspired styling, the 2018 YZ65 reaffirms Yamaha’s total commitment to the youth motocross scene – the starting point for future champions.
Yamaha now provides an ideal step up from the company’s PW50, the YZ65 opens up the wonderful world of motorcycling to younger riders and their families, and gives tomorrow’s champions the ideal introduction to motocross. By starting out with some of the best equipment, YZ65 riders will be able to achieve their real potential on the racetrack – and due to the availability of further YZ motorcycles, and Yamaha’s bLU cRU rider support programme, riders can kick start their careers and progress through the ranks to reach the pinnacle of motocross racing.
With the arrival of the YZ65, everyone can start out like a Pro rider.
Smooth, Powerful and Easy to Use 65cc Engine
The new YZ65 is driven by a newly designed 65cc 2-stroke liquid-cooled powerplant that benefits from a race-developed crankcase reed valve system, ensuring an excellent and instant throttle response across the entire powerband, as well as a Digital CDI system that delivers a precise spark and helps monitor engine speed.
Yamaha is an industry leader in power valve design, and the YZ65’s exhaust port is equipped with a mechanical Yamaha Power Valve System (YPVS) that gives a smooth power delivery and helps to optimise torque output for stronger performance at low to mid rpm. A slick-shifting 6-speed transmission gives the YZ65 rider the ability to perform to the maximum on different circuits.
As well as delivering smooth and easy to use power with race winning performance, YZ65 riders and their parents can also be sure that this is one of the most durable and reliable models in the category. This is ensured by the usage of a high-capacity, but compact radiator, which features optimised hose routing to deliver maximum cooling efficiency even in the toughest racing conditions.
Light and Stable Handling Performance
To enable the YZ65 rider to make best use of the new engine’s strong performance, Yamaha’s designers have developed an all-new semi double cradle frame with a detachable aluminium subframe and lightweight aluminium swingarm that gives light and stable handling with easy agility.
Enhancing these chassis components are 60/100 14″ front- and 80/100 12″ rear tire sizes. The YZ65 also comes as standard with sporty wave-style brake rotors which are lighter than conventional rotors and offer improved self-cleaning action in dirty conditions.
Premium Front and Rear Suspension Systems
For exceptional handling together with effective bump absorption, the new YZ65 is equipped with high specification 36-mm KYB front forks that give a truly planted front end feel for confident cornering. Offering full adjustability, this race-bred front end can be easily set up to suit different track condition and riding styles.
The aluminium swingarm and monocross rear suspension system give a smooth and stable ride, and are designed to give a high level of riding comfort. The link-less suspension design reduces routine maintenance requirements, and the system is designed to prevent bottoming out on the roughest circuits, enabling the rider to maintain full control.
Total Control
The YZ65 is designed to be the complete package that delivers race winning engine performance with agile handling and class-leading durability. The seat profile and body panels are all designed to allow the rider to rapidly shift their body forward or backward during braking, acceleration and cornering, giving total control – whether sitting down or standing on the foot pegs – and the YZ65’s four-position adjustable tapered handlebars can be set up to suit a wide range of riders of varying sizes and physiques.
Pure YZ race-bred DNA
The new YZ65 comes with pure YZ race-bred DNA as standard equipment. Its race blue bodywork, bold graphics and blue rims are inspired by Yamaha’s YZ450FM MXGP bike, and every key feature on this youth motocross bike has been developed by the same team of engineers that are responsible for the company’s other YZ race bikes.
YZ65 Technical Highlights
Parts and Accessories
YZ65 riders will be able to choose from a growing range of Genuine Yamaha Accessories including tools, service parts and also have access to the GYTR Performance Products catalogue.
Along with this, Yamaha provides riders a large range of youth MX riding gear as well as lifestyle clothing, rucksacks and gear bag options to choose from. Yamaha’s line up is continuously evolving, and new items are being added throughout the year.
Price and Availability
The Yamaha YZ65 will be available at Yamaha dealers starting in June 2018. Please contact your national Yamaha press officer for more detailed information and the local price.
2018 MX Pro Tour
Yamaha will once again visit various tracks around Europe where customers will be able to test, feel and gain knowledge about the YZ range. Complete details will be live on national Yamaha websites in June.