CDR Rockstar Yamaha's Jay Marmont was on hand for MotoOnline.com.au's WR450F Quick Test.

The 450cc enduro segment has a massive amount of options for the keen bush bashers of this world, with a solid mix of Japanese and European models performing exceptionally.

Out of those models, Yamaha’s WR450F has risen to be the benchmark many times over during the years, a mainstay in the class with just minimal development over time.

The current WR450 has been in showrooms for the last three years and still mixes it with the best, combining a great balance between engine performance and chassis handling.

For this year we see a gripper seat added to the package, as well as a new inner clutch basket, however apart from that it’s all systems go from the year models beforehand.

Another notable change is that the bike now comes with Metzeler FIM-approved Six Day Extreme tyres.

While Yamaha’s YZ450F motocross bike underwent radical modifications for this year with the reverse cylinder engine and so on, the WR remains conventional with its five-valve DOHC engine and use on carburettors for now.

Likewise with the suspension, its Kayaba front and rear shock absorbers remaining one of the most proven combinations in the class that will assist you in even the toughest of terrain.

Starting with the simple things, the bike looks the goods at a standstill, however when you place it against the revolutionary YZ there’s no doubt that the WR does look somewhat dated.

In saying that, the styling of the WR in its sharp blue colour scheme and clean graphics kit is a winner, and the shape of the front light and surroundings is one of the better looking in the class.

Other finishing touches include a WR symbol on the rear guard, as well as a set of hand guards that will come in handy when you head out deep into the scrub.

The speedometer is simple to use and is tucked nicely behind the front number plate, while the Pro Taper handlebars that come as stock on the ride are certainly first class.

The WR450F remains a stylish ride despite just limited updates in recent years.

Ergonomically speaking, the Yamaha has the capabilities of suiting a wide range of riders. What I mean by this is that while I feel comfortable at 168cm/70kgs, larger riders will also appreciate the size and comfort of the ride. It just works.

That transfers into an agile ride once you hit the trail, the well balanced suspension package enabling you to place the WR where you want it and it’ll respond accordingly.

At speed it’s stable, however does take some extra effort to get it slowed down for tight stuff, and your confidence will soar in loamy sections that allow you to give it a fist full of gas and hang off the back.

But it’s not only the wide open sections that you’ll like the WR, because its tractability on shaly stuff is excellent also, and my past experience tells me that it’s a great hill climber even though I didn’t get any that were too technical during this particular Quick Test.

In comparison, KTM’s 450 EXC does feel quite a bit lighter and more compact, however the WR does have an incredible ratio of being a perfect trail bike and race bike without too many changes necessary.

While the chassis is a great all-rounder, the engine is a proven and reliable bit of gear in enduro circles, combining mumbo with smoothness – somewhat deceiving since the exhaust is so quiet.

Don’t expect to have your arms ripped out at the twist of the throttle, just enjoy the powerband that Yamaha engineers have worked their magic with and you’ll reap the rewards over a longer ride.

Marmont powered out some laps in sandy conditions for some WR fun.

Despite not having electronic fuel-injection, the carbs do a superb job of applying the gas, resulting in a responsive throttle and clean power output at every acceleration point.

The engine revs spike up quickly as the power comes on smoothly and rear tyre rips into the soil, and the gearbox is smooth and precise as you’d expect from a Yamaha.

One thing that you may notice is the cable clutch, which seems pretty stiff as you begin to wear out (especially in tighter sections).

Apart from that though, it’s really hard not to enjoy the performance of the WR engine.

Yamaha has had great success in racing and competition universally with the WR450F, and has also enjoyed great sales right here in Australia, which is easy to see why after spending a couple of days in the saddle.

If you’re in the market for a 450cc enduro bike and aren’t sure what one’s for you, be sure to take a serious look at the Yamaha. If you do lay down your hard-earned cash on it, there’s no doubt that you’ll be a happy rider come the weekend!