I am looking at buying a YFZ 450 and wondered if anyone knew what year they made the big change to the softer seat and better gearing for trail riding. I know they have the x and r but i am buying used but i race quads and still like to hit the trails out back.
Thanks

 

As far as I can remember, they never changed the gearing. I really don't see a reason to, as the stock gearing is pretty spot on with my '05. A lower first gear won't help much as this type of machine will overheat if you are riding that slow for extended periods anyway. The seat was updated in '05 slightly, and possibly again later. I wouldn't worry about the seat anyway, as you can buy the foam and cover from Quadtech that will put the stock stuff to shame. If you are going for an R model, the seat is supposed to be a lot softer than the original YFZ, but I have never sat on one.

 

and i think in 07 they fixed the oil problem they had so you wouldnt have to do the oil mod, i cant member where the problem was on that...the rod or something