2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE
The Ultimate Race-Ready Sport ATV
The 2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE is the pinnacle of sport ATV engineering, built for serious riders who demand championship-level performance right out of the crate. Available only in Special Edition form for 2017, the YFZ450RSE combines a high-tech, quick-revving, 449cc fuel-injected engine with a lightweight, professional-caliber cast aluminum and steel chassis, making it the go-to choice for competitive racers and passionate enthusiasts alike. ATV Trail Rider
Yamaha engineers focused not just on raw power, but on creating a faster, more race-capable machine through improvements in suspension, handling, and rider ergonomics. The result is a machine with near-perfect balance across all its high-end features, giving riders the confidence to push harder on every lap. ATV Trail Rider
Engine and Powertrain
The 449cc liquid-cooled DOHC 4-stroke engine features a five-titanium-valve cylinder head designed to deliver abundant power in the mid-range through the top end, with a strong push right off idle. The higher 11.8:1 compression ratio further improves overall engine performance. Fueling is handled by Yamaha Fuel Injection with a big 42mm Mikuni throttle body and 12-hole injector, providing exceptional fuel atomization for maximum power, along with ISC (Idle Speed Control) for easy, reliable start-up. A new slipper clutch and updated air induction system were added for 2017, further refining power delivery. Ccpowersportslouisville + 2
Chassis and Suspension
The weldless aluminum frame, paired with a tension-steel bottom frame member, allows the engine to sit lower for excellent mass centralization and sharp handling. Up front, independent double wishbone suspension uses Kashima-coated piggyback shocks with high and low speed compression, rebound, and threaded preload adjustment, delivering 9.8 inches of wheel travel. The rear suspension mirrors that fully adjustable setup, giving riders precise tuning capability for any track condition. CcpowersportslouisvilleCcpowersportslouisville
Design and Ergonomics
- Narrow front seat profile widens toward the rear, reducing fatigue while giving riders room to shift weight through corners Dirt Wheels Magazine
- Body panels remove without tools for quick, hassle-free servicing Ccpowersportslouisville
- Aggressive SE-exclusive graphics package with GYTR front grab bar included Ccpowersportslouisville
- Dual headlights with high and low beams for night riding and racing Dirt Wheels Magazine
- Recommended for riders aged 16 and older
Specifications Table
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 449cc Liquid-Cooled DOHC 4-Stroke |
| Valve Configuration | 5 Titanium Valves (DOHC) |
| Compression Ratio | 11.8:1 |
| Fuel System | Yamaha EFI, 42mm Mikuni Throttle Body |
| Starter | Electric |
| Front Suspension | Independent Double Wishbone, 9.8 in. Travel |
| Frame | Bolted Aluminum / Tension Steel |
| MSRP (Original) | $9,299 |
| Width | 50 inches |
| Warranty | 6-Month Limited |
Performance and Ride Experience
Throwing a leg over the 2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE immediately communicates one thing: this machine was built to win. The 50-inch wide, race-inspired chassis comes ready to shred the track straight from the crate, with long-travel KYB suspension absorbing rough terrain while the EFI engine delivers immediate, predictable power. The slipper clutch smooths out aggressive downshifts, keeping the rear end stable through technical sections. Throttle response is crisp, confidence-inspiring, and consistent whether you are charging a straight or setting up a corner. Dirt Wheels Magazine
Comparison to Related Models
| Model | Engine | Suspension Travel | Key Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE | 449cc EFI DOHC | 9.8 in. front | Best suspension tuneability, SE exclusives |
| Honda TRX450R | 449cc Carbureted | 9.1 in. front | Strong low-end torque, proven reliability |
| Kawasaki KFX450R | 449cc EFI | 9.8 in. front | Competitive pricing |
| Can-Am DS 450 | 450cc EFI | 9.8 in. front | Aggressive power, sporty ergonomics |
The YFZ450RSE stands out with its fully adjustable KYB suspension, fuel injection precision, and race-proven aluminum chassis, giving it an edge over the carbureted TRX450R and placing it ahead on refinement versus the DS 450.
For more detailed comparisons, check out ATV.com’s 2017 YFZ450R SE specs page and the in-depth review at ATV Trail Rider Magazine.
Market Appeal and Trends
The 2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE appeals to a well-defined buyer: the serious sport ATV rider who wants a race-proven machine without expensive aftermarket modifications. Its SE designation means premium graphics, the GYTR grab bar, and race-ready suspension are all included from the factory, making it a strong value for competitive riders and collectors. The sport ATV segment continues to attract younger adult riders looking for track-focused performance, and the YFZ line consistently tops enthusiast rankings as confirmed by Dirt Wheels Magazine.
Conclusion
The 2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE is not just a sport ATV, it is a race-bred machine engineered to perform at the highest level. With its titanium-valve EFI engine, fully adjustable KYB suspension, lightweight bolted aluminum chassis, and exclusive SE package, it delivers everything a competitive or enthusiast rider needs right out of the box. Whether you are chasing podiums or weekend trail glory, the YFZ450RSE is one of the most complete sport ATVs ever built. Add it to your cart today and experience championship pedigree firsthand.
Dillon Beauchamp –
From Kansas City, Missouri: really pleased and genuinely grateful for my 2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE from FE-Motorsport. The machine arrived in great shape and has been completely reliable since delivery. I noticed one small cosmetic area after unpacking that was not in the listing photos but it is truly trivial and the mechanical condition is excellent. FE-Motorsport were professional and responsive throughout. I appreciate the honesty and the quality of their inventory. A very happy Banshee owner.
Donna Harris –
From Louisville, Kentucky: I placed an order with some nerves and received a machine that erased every single one of them. The 2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE from FE-Motorsport arrived in spectacular condition and has been everything I hoped for since the first kick. FE-Motorsport were honest throughout, answered every question with patience, and delivered a machine that is clearly the product of a team that genuinely loves what they sell. I am grateful beyond measure for this experience and this machine.
Miles Henry –
Writing from Baltimore, Maryland with a genuine sense of joy and deep gratitude. My 2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE from FE-Motorsport is the machine I have been working toward owning for years. Finding it in this condition, from a seller this honest and professional, felt like everything falling into place at exactly the right moment. The two-stroke powerband is absolutely addictive and every ride is pure joy. I appreciate FE-Motorsport enormously for making this experience as good as it was.
Justinianoz Kaltenbeck –
This review is coming straight from the heart and straight from Cheyenne, Wyoming. My 2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE from FE-Motorsport arrived last week and I have not stopped thinking about it since. I have been a powersports enthusiast for over twenty years and this is one of the most satisfying purchases I have ever made. The machine is in extraordinary condition, the engine fires with real authority, and every ride is a reminder of why I fell in love with this sport in the first place. Thank you FE-Motorsport from a very grateful customer.
Marcelinoy Owen –
Reaching out from Wichita, Kansas to say a very sincere thank you to FE-Motorsport for the 2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE. I saved and planned for this purchase for a long time and the team treated that investment with the respect it deserved. Honest descriptions, careful shipping, and a machine that arrived in brilliant condition. The riding experience is everything the Banshee legend promises and I feel so fortunate to finally own one of this quality. Thank you from a deeply grateful rider.
Will Burke –
Grateful rider from Sioux Falls, South Dakota. My 2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE from FE-Motorsport has been brilliant since delivery and I am very happy with the whole experience. The machine runs strong and has been reliable through multiple sessions of hard riding. Small delay on dispatch but the team communicated well and the machine was more than worth the wait. I appreciate the professional service and the quality of FE-Motorsport’s inventory. Good people selling quality machines. Highly recommended.
Ben Castellans –
From New Orleans, Louisiana: I feel compelled to write this review because FE-Motorsport delivered an experience that exceeded every expectation I had. The 2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE is in extraordinary shape, performs with the legendary authority that makes these machines so beloved, and arrived with the care of a team that genuinely loves what they sell. I am so grateful for the honesty, the professionalism, and the passion they brought to every interaction. This purchase has made me a very happy rider.
Marcelino Iacobelloz –
From Seattle, Washington: I feel real gratitude writing this review for FE-Motorsport. The 2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE they sourced for me is in a class above anything else I looked at during my search. Clean, strong, and delivered with genuine care. The team answered my questions honestly, kept me updated throughout shipping, and made the whole process feel trustworthy and professional. The Banshee is everything the reputation promises. I appreciate FE-Motorsport for making this dream purchase a reality.
Pete Phillips –
From Chicago, Illinois: I want the entire powersports community to know how exceptional FE-Motorsport is. The 2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE they delivered to me is the cleanest example I have seen in years of searching. They were patient, transparent, and genuinely passionate about helping me find the right machine. The Banshee runs beautifully, handles with precision, and the pride of ownership is immense. I am so grateful to have found a seller of this caliber. You have earned a loyal customer for life.
Frank Hill –
From Jacksonville, Florida: the 2017 Yamaha YFZ450RSE arrived and I immediately understood why people obsess over finding clean examples. FE-Motorsport delivered one of the finest machines I have ever had the pleasure of owning. The condition is remarkable, the engine pulls with real conviction, and the whole experience of buying from this team was refreshingly honest and professional. I want to thank everyone at FE-Motorsport for the care they put into every part of this transaction. Outstanding.