2006 Yamaha YZ450F Overview, Reviews, Ratings & Specs

The Good

The 2006 Yamaha YZ450F offers numerous advantages, appealing to both emotional and practical buyers. Its strong, usable engine performance, coupled with the revolutionary KYB SSS suspension, provides thrilling power and confidence-inspiring handling. Yamaha's reputation for reliability means a robust build. While a race bike, its improved ergonomics offer decent comfort. The aggressive design is instantly recognizable. From a practical standpoint, its parts availability and relatively stable used value make it a smart investment for serious riders.

The Bad

While exceptional, the 2006 Yamaha YZ450F has known weaknesses. Kickstarting can be challenging for some, lacking an electric start. Its powerful, aggressive nature might intimidate less experienced riders. Standard race bike maintenance, including regular valve checks and adjustments, is crucial to prevent long-term issues. Clutch wear can be accelerated with hard use, and the carburetor may require re-jetting for significant altitude changes.

2006 Yamaha YZ450F: Quick Overview

The 2006 Yamaha YZ450F is a purpose-built motocross machine with a comprehensive set of specifications designed for peak off-road performance:

• Engine Options: The YZ450F features a single, dedicated engine option. It is a liquid-cooled, DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft), four-stroke, five-valve (three titanium intake, two steel exhaust) cylinder engine. This configuration was slightly revised from previous years for lighter reciprocating mass and improved performance.
• Displacement: 449cc.
• Horsepower: While Yamaha does not officially publish horsepower figures for competition models, the 2006 YZ450F is estimated to produce between 50 and 55 horsepower, known for its broad and tractable powerband.
• Fuel Economy: Not a primary metric for a motocross bike, fuel economy is highly variable based on riding style and track conditions. It typically uses premium unleaded gasoline, with its 1.8-gallon tank offering sufficient range for motos, but not extended trail rides.
• 0-60 Times: Not applicable. Performance is measured by lap times and overall acceleration on a track rather than conventional road statistics.
• Towing Capacity: Not applicable. The YZ450F is not designed for towing.
• Trim-Level Features: The 2006 YZ450F essentially comes in one high-performance trim, equipped with race-ready features:
  • Engine & Drivetrain:
    • Keihin FCR-MX39 carburetor with hot start circuit for easy starting.
    • CDI ignition system for precise spark timing.
    • Close-ratio 5-speed constant mesh transmission.
    • Manual kickstart system (no electric start).
  • Chassis & Suspension:
    • Revolutionary bilateral beam aluminum frame, new for 2006, offering significantly improved rigidity and handling characteristics compared to previous steel frames.
    • Front suspension: Fully adjustable 48mm KYB Speed Sensitive System (SSS) inverted fork, providing 12.2 inches of wheel travel. This system was a benchmark for performance and plushness.
    • Rear suspension: Fully adjustable KYB piggyback shock with 12.4 inches of wheel travel, featuring a new lighter spring for 2006.
    • Brakes: Front hydraulic single disc (250mm), Rear hydraulic single disc (245mm) for powerful stopping.
  • Dimensions & Other:
    • Wheelbase: 58.7 inches.
    • Seat Height: 39.3 inches.
    • Ground Clearance: 15.0 inches.
    • Wet Weight: Approximately 238 lbs (108 kg) ready to ride with fluids.
    • Fuel Capacity: 1.8 gallons (6.8 liters).
    • ProTaper aluminum handlebars, Dunlop knobby tires, and aggressive "Team Yamaha" styling.

2006 Yamaha YZ450F Specifications

Vehicle History Report

What Problems Does the 2006 Yamaha YZ450F Have?

The 2006 Yamaha YZ450F, while highly reliable for a race bike, does have frequently reported problems and long-term concerns inherent to high-performance competition motorcycles. One of the most common issues is valve train wear and the need for frequent valve adjustments. The titanium intake valves, in particular, can wear over time, leading to reduced clearances and requiring shims or eventual replacement if neglected. This is a critical maintenance item for all performance four-strokes of this era.

Another frequent concern is accelerated clutch wear. Due to the YZ450F's powerful engine and the aggressive riding style it encourages, clutch plates and springs can wear out relatively quickly, necessitating regular inspection and replacement to maintain optimal performance.

Some riders report challenges with the kickstart mechanism. Lacking an electric start, proper technique and precise jetting are crucial. Issues like a sticky hot start lever or improper valve clearance can make starting difficult or inconsistent. The carburetor, a Keihin FCR-MX39, can also be sensitive to environmental changes, requiring re-jetting for significant altitude or temperature shifts, and can experience blockages if fuel is left to degrade.

As with all dirt bikes, suspension seals (fork and shock) are consumables prone to wear and leakage, requiring periodic replacement. Furthermore, given its competition focus, the YZ450F's engine components have a service life measured in hours, not miles. Neglecting regular top-end (piston, rings, timing chain) and bottom-end (crankshaft bearings) rebuilds, typically recommended every 30-50 and 100-200 hours respectively, will lead to significant, costly engine failures.

Recalls for the 2006 Yamaha YZ450F are not widely documented, as competition-only vehicles typically face fewer regulatory recall requirements than street-legal models. Overall, the long-term reliability is excellent *if* meticulous maintenance is adhered to. Neglect, however, can quickly transform minor wear into major and expensive repair needs, making diligent preventative maintenance the key to its longevity.

How long will the 2006 Yamaha YZ450F last?

The 2006 Yamaha YZ450F's "mileage" is best measured in engine hours, not traditional road miles. For a recreational rider, a well-maintained YZ450F can offer 10-15+ years of service. An average recreational rider might accumulate 50-100 hours annually. For competitive use, engine components, particularly the top-end (piston and rings), typically require refreshing every 30-50 operating hours, with a full bottom-end rebuild every 100-200 hours.

Long-term durability is a strong point for the YZ450F, especially its bilateral beam aluminum frame and the robust KYB SSS suspension system. These core components are built to withstand rigorous use. However, its long-term weaknesses revolve around consumables and the need for consistent maintenance. Components like wheel bearings, swingarm bearings, suspension linkages, chain, sprockets, and brake pads are wear items that require periodic replacement. The demanding nature of its engine means valve train components and the piston assembly will eventually need attention. Regular cleaning, especially after wet rides, is crucial to prevent corrosion on fasteners and other metal parts. Neglecting these maintenance points will drastically reduce its service life and lead to costly failures.

What Technology & Safety Features are Included?

The 2006 Yamaha YZ450F is a pure competition motocross bike, meaning its "built-in tech," entertainment, driver-assistance, and safety features are extremely minimal, focusing solely on performance and rider control rather than comfort or convenience found in road vehicles.

• Built-in Tech: The primary technological marvel of the 2006 YZ450F lies in its highly advanced engine and suspension. The 449cc DOHC 5-valve engine (specifically, 3 titanium intake and 2 steel exhaust) utilizes a Keihin FCR-MX39 carburetor, which, while not fuel-injected, was a sophisticated piece of equipment for its time, featuring a hot start circuit for easier restarts after a stall. The most significant tech advancement was the introduction of the Kayaba (KYB) Speed Sensitive System (SSS) front forks. These forks provided revolutionary damping performance, reacting to the speed of the fork's movement rather than its position, delivering plushness over small bumps and excellent bottoming resistance over large impacts. This system was a significant competitive advantage.
• Entertainment: None. As a dedicated race machine, the YZ450F offers no entertainment features such as radios, speakers, or infotainment screens.
• Driver-Assistance: None. The YZ450F lacks any form of electronic driver-assistance systems like ABS, traction control, stability control, or launch control. The rider's skill and physical input are the sole determinants of control.
• Safety Features: Basic motocross safety features include powerful hydraulic disc brakes (front and rear), a sturdy bilateral beam aluminum frame designed for impact resilience, aggressive off-road tires for maximum grip, an engine kill switch for immediate power cutoff, and essential chain guards. There are no passive safety systems like airbags or seatbelts. Rider safety is paramount on protective gear (helmet, boots, pads, etc.) and proper riding technique.
• Optional Features: While Yamaha didn't offer "optional features" in the traditional sense, riders commonly customized their YZ450F with a vast array of aftermarket parts. These included performance exhaust systems, different handlebars, footpegs, graphics kits, larger capacity fuel tanks for extended rides, handguards, and suspension re-valving to precisely match individual rider weight and preferences.
• Crash-Test Ratings: Not applicable. Motocross motorcycles are not subjected to crash testing by automotive safety organizations (like NHTSA or IIHS) as they are not road-legal vehicles. Their design prioritizes strength and resilience for off-road impacts and falls, but they provide no occupant crash protection in the manner of a car or street motorcycle.

What Colors Options are Available?

2006 Yamaha YZ450F Prices and Market Value

When new, the 2006 Yamaha YZ450F carried a manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) of approximately $6,999 to $7,099. This positioned it competitively among other flagship 450cc motocross machines of its era.

In today's used market, the current prices for a 2006 YZ450F are highly variable, typically ranging from $2,500 to $4,500. Exceptionally well-maintained, low-hour examples, especially those with recent engine work or desirable aftermarket components, can sometimes command slightly higher prices. Conversely, bikes with significant wear, neglected maintenance, or requiring major repairs will naturally sell for less.

Regarding depreciation, high-performance motocross bikes experience a significant drop in value during their first few years, similar to many vehicles. However, models like the YZ450F, known for their performance, reliability, and particularly the game-changing KYB SSS suspension introduced or significantly refined in this era, tend to stabilize and hold their value relatively well in the long term. The 2006 model, being a benchmark year for its frame and suspension updates, retains a strong appeal.

Factors critically affecting resale value include the overall physical condition (plastics, frame, engine cases), the maintenance history (proof of oil changes, valve adjustments, rebuilds), actual engine hours, and the condition of wear items like tires, chain, sprockets, and suspension components. Quality aftermarket parts can sometimes add value, but extreme modifications might narrow the buyer pool. A clear title or proof of ownership is also vital.

2006 Yamaha YZ450F Cost of Ownership

Ownership costs for a 2006 Yamaha YZ450F, a high-performance competition motocross bike, lean towards the costly side rather than economical.

• Insurance: Typically minimal. Many owners opt for liability-only or rely on homeowners/renters insurance for theft protection as these bikes are not street legal. Full coverage is rare and expensive.
• Fuel: Requires premium unleaded gasoline. Fuel consumption is high under hard riding conditions, as expected for a powerful 450cc engine being pushed to its limits.
• Maintenance: This is where costs accrue. Regular, diligent maintenance is critical. This includes frequent oil and filter changes (every 5-10 engine hours), air filter cleaning after every ride, periodic valve clearance checks and adjustments, and replacement of wear items like spark plugs.
• Repair: Parts are generally available and reasonably priced through Yamaha or aftermarket suppliers. However, labor for specialized engine work (e.g., valve jobs, top-end rebuilds) can be expensive if not performed by the owner.
• Long-Term Ownership: Consumables like tires, brake pads, chains, sprockets, and suspension seals wear out and require regular replacement. The engine itself requires periodic top-end (piston, rings) and eventually bottom-end (krank) rebuilds based on hours of use, which are significant expenses.

While the YZ450F is renowned for its durability, these regular, intensive maintenance and wear-item replacement costs make it a demanding, and thus relatively costly, vehicle to own and operate effectively over the long term, especially if ridden hard or raced.

2006 Yamaha YZ450F Fuel Efficiency

2006 Yamaha YZ450F Warranty

2006 Yamaha YZ450F Insurance

How Does the 2006 Yamaha YZ450F Compare to Other Motorcycle?

The 2006 Yamaha YZ450F was a formidable contender in the highly competitive 450cc motocross class, stacking up against rivals like the Honda CRF450R, Kawasaki KX450F, Suzuki RM-Z450, and KTM 450 SX-F.

• Performance: The YZ450F was celebrated for its strong, tractable, and broad powerband. While some rivals offered slightly more peak horsepower, the Yamaha's power delivery was highly usable and less intimidating. The defining performance advantage was its KYB Speed Sensitive System (SSS) suspension, which, introduced or refined this year, offered significantly superior plushness, bottoming resistance, and overall adjustability compared to most competitors' conventional fork designs. This gave the YZ a distinct edge in handling and rider comfort over rough terrain. The Honda CRF450R was often praised for its razor-sharp handling and nimble feel, while the Kawasaki KX450F delivered immense power, albeit sometimes feeling a bit more ponderous. The Suzuki RM-Z450 was typically a well-balanced package. KTMs were known for strong engines and good components.
• Features: A key differentiator for the 2006 YZ450F was its brand-new bilateral beam aluminum frame, which greatly improved rigidity and chassis feedback. This, combined with the SSS suspension, made it feel very modern. Most rivals in 2006 still relied on carburetors, like the YZ, and none of the Japanese brands offered electric start on their 450 motocrossers, a feature becoming more common on KTMs.
• Reliability: All Japanese 450s of this era were generally robust machines if meticulously maintained. Yamaha often had a reputation for slightly better engine longevity, particularly if valve checks were performed diligently. Honda and Suzuki were also very reliable. KTMs, while durable, sometimes had higher parts costs. The YZ450F's five-valve head, while performing well, did require careful valve maintenance.
• Price: New prices across these manufacturers were very similar, typically within a few hundred dollars of each other. In the used market today, their prices are also competitive, largely depending on individual bike condition, maintenance history, and hours.

Recommendations: The 2006 YZ450F remains a fantastic used purchase due to its excellent SSS suspension and durable engine. It's arguably one of the best 450s from that specific year. If you prefer even sharper cornering, a Honda CRF450R from the same era is a strong alternative. For raw power, a Kawasaki KX450F might appeal. Ultimately, a well-maintained example of any of these bikes will provide excellent performance, but the YZ450F stands out for its suspension, offering a balance of comfort and control that was ahead of its time.

Final Verdict: Is the 2006 Yamaha YZ450F a Good Motorcycle?

Verdict: The 2006 Yamaha YZ450F is an outstanding choice for experienced motocross riders, off-road enthusiasts, and competitive racers who demand a powerful, reliable, and exceptionally well-suspended machine. It is particularly ideal for those who value strong, predictable power delivery and the class-leading comfort and control offered by Yamaha's KYB Speed Sensitive System (SSS) suspension.

Worth Buying: Absolutely, the 2006 YZ450F is highly worth buying in the used market. This specific model year is a standout due to the introduction of the significantly improved bilateral beam aluminum frame and the revolutionary SSS forks, making it feel remarkably capable and modern even compared to much newer bikes. Its enduring performance and Yamaha's reputation for reliability make it a smart investment.

Conditions: When purchasing, focus on a used model with a clear history of meticulous maintenance. Key areas to inspect include valve clearances, clutch condition, and overall engine health (evidenced by recent top-end work, if applicable). Be prepared for the standard intensive maintenance schedule required by any high-performance race bike, including frequent oil changes and air filter cleaning. Since there are no specific "trims" for this competition bike, the decision hinges on the individual bike's condition and documented care, rather than optional packages. For riders ready to commit to its maintenance demands, the 2006 YZ450F offers incredible performance value.

2006 Yamaha YZ450F Owner Reviews

Simon A

Simon is a contributor to VinCheck, where he provides articles and reviews on various automotive topics. His work focuses on delivering accurate and up-to-date information about used cars, helping readers make informed decisions.