Motorcycle specifications YamahaYZ 85 2023 The minimalist reflection of the 125

when you set foot on the footrest of a YZ 85, you've already come a long way from the PW. Light, agile, fast and reliable, this is a minimalist version of Yamaha's high-performance racing machines. Featuring most of the engine and chassis technologies found on the YZ 125 and YZ 250, the YZ 85 is an excellent machine for preparing for a future career as a professional racer. With compact bodywork, a flatter seat and a series of chassis modifications, the changes made to this generation YZ 85 mirror those of the YZ 125 - and like its big brother, the machine is designed to offer more assertive, efficient and athletic handling for riders aiming for the victorYZone.

innovative, dynamic design

the styling is similar to that of the larger-displacement YZ models. The compact bodywork features a powerful horizontal line which, together with a flat seat and redesigned side covers, creates a more confident, aggressive stance. The two-tone variation features contrasting areas of Icon Blue and dark matte blue, while the patterns withstand the harshest conditions, ensuring that this high-tech racing motorcycle maintains its appearance throughout the season.

trim

since 2022, the YZ 85 has been equipped with a narrower bodywork, giving the rider greater freedom of movement for better control during acceleration, braking and cornering. The redesigned radiator guards are 25 mm narrower at their widest point, and now feature a uniform left-right configuration that contributes to greater balance of the bike from the rider's point of view.

The YZ 85 is also equipped with a front fender whose upper section favors air flow to the radiator for efficient cooling and consistently high engine performance. Inherited from the YZ 125, this compact cladding proves the common DNA of YZ models.

flatter seat and redesigned fuel tank

like the YZ 125, the YZ 85 is equipped with a flatter saddle for easier rider movement. Ergonomics are further enhanced by the 5-liter fuel tank, which features a redesigned cap for greater freedom of forward movement. The saddle features a new single-bolt fastener for quick and easy maintenance.

high-efficiency rear air intake

the YZ 85's side covers fulfill two important roles: Firstly, their smooth, narrow design promotes rider maneuverability for rapid transfer between front and rear. Secondly, they feature rear vents that allow more direct airflow to the engine airbox, offering greater intake efficiency for great performance.

more progressive rear braking performance

for more progressive rear braking, the YZ 85 features a master cylinder with an integrated sub-reservoir. This replaces the previous model's separate reservoir and connecting pipe to deliver more natural, linear braking and precise feedback.

lightweight aluminum rear frame and new swingarm

since 2022, the YZ 85 chassis has benefited from a 570g aluminum rear end, lighter than the steel unit used on the previous model, a significant weight reduction that also contributes to mass centralization.

Another new feature is the redesigned swingarm, with a new balance between longitudinal and torsional rigidity. This subtle but significant change improves chassis stability and enables power to be transmitted to the ground more efficiently.

yZ 85 highlights

- YPVS 85cm3 two-stroke engine
- Fully adjustable KYB suspension
- Wave-type, large-diameter disc brakes
- Sleek, dynamic look
- Reduced weight
- Improved ergonomics
- Narrower rider knee box
- Balanced right/left scoops
- More efficient air intake
- Lightweight aluminum rear frame
- Redesigned swingarm for optimized rigidity
- More progressive rear brake

Information and image credits: Yamaha Motor Europe