Yamaha WR450F 2-Trac—a bike so ahead of its time, it still turns heads 20 years later. Born in 2004 and killed off after just one year, this limited-edition beast isn’t just a motorcycle. It’s a piece of off-road history, a mechanical unicorn, and a collector’s holy grail. Let’s dive into why this oddball Yamaha is skyrocketing in value—and why you’ll kick yourself if you miss the chance to own one.
The WR450F 2-Trac’s Wild Backstory
Yamaha’s obsession with two-wheel drive started in the 90s, but early prototypes were clunky messes. Then came Ohlins Racing. Together, they cracked the code with a hydraulic system that sent power to the front wheel without chains or shafts. The result? A YZ250 test bike that dominated Sweden’s Gotland Rally in 1998.
By 2004, Yamaha stuffed this tech into the WR450F enduro chassis, creating the first production 2WD motorcycle. The goal? Conquer terrain that’d make other bikes cry. And boy, did it deliver. At the 2004 Dakar Rally, David Fretigne rode a WR450F 2-Trac to a 450cc class win and 7th overall—proof that two driven wheels could out-climb, out-grip, and outlast the competition.
2004 Yamaha WR450F 2-Trac
So why’d Yamaha kill it?
- Cost: The 2-Trac system added complexity and a 20% price hike.
- Weight: At 128 kg (wet), it was 11 lbs heavier than the standard WR450F.
- Niche appeal: Off-road purists scoffed at its “training wheels” rep.
Yamaha pulled the plug after just 445 units, mostly sold in Europe and Australia. Only a handful slipped into the U.S., making it rarer than a quiet Harley.
Why It’s So Rare?
You’re more likely to spot Bigfoot than a WR450F 2-Trac in the wild. Here’s why:
- Global production: 445 units (all built in Japan).
- U.S. availability: Near-zero. Stiff EPA/DOT rules and no official imports meant buyers had to navigate a maze of paperwork and fees.
- Survivors: Maybe 100-200 exist today. Many were raced hard, put away wet, or cannibalized for parts.
Australia got just 20 bikes. One sold in 2024 for $8,000 USD—triple its original price. In the U.S.? Good luck. When a Marty Moates-owned 2-Trac hit Bonhams auction, collectors threw cash like confetti.
The Tech That Changed the Game (And Still Does)
The 2-Trac wasn’t just innovative—it was genius. Here’s the breakdown:
Hydraulic 2WD System
- How it worked: A gearbox-driven pump sent fluid to a front hub motor. No chains, no shafts—just pure hydraulic pressure.
- Smart traction: If the rear wheel slipped, the system automatically sent up to 20% power forward. Think of it as early traction control.
- Perks: 10% faster top speed in slop, reduced wheelies, and beginner-friendly stability.
But it wasn’t perfect:
- Weight penalty: Felt like dragging a sack of potatoes in tight singletrack.
- Quirks: Stalling if you grabbed too much front brake, and a “pulling” sensation that old-school riders hated.
The Rest of the Package:
- Engine: 449cc liquid-cooled thumper with Yamaha’s Power Tuner app (yes, in 2004!).
- Suspension: 300mm travel up front, 305mm in back—plush enough for Dakar, stiff enough for hare scrambles.
Why Are Collectors Drooling Over It?
I’ll level with you: Most bikes collect dust. The 2-Trac collects checks. Here’s why:
- Historical Significance: It’s the Godfather of 2WD bikes. Modern traction control? Thank this mad scientist.
- Nostalgia Factor: For ’90s/’00s kids who drooled over Fretigne’s Dakar win, it’s a time machine.
- Investment Potential: Prices have doubled since 2020. A clean 2-Trac now fetches $8K−$12K—and climbing.
How to Buy One (Without Getting Scammed)
Ready to hunt? Here’s your game plan:
Where to Look:
- Auction sites: Bring a Trailer, eBay Motors.
- Forums: ADVrider, ThumperTalk. Post a “WTB” thread and pray.
- Dealers: Specialists like Mecum Auctions or Euro-based shops.
What to Check:
- Hydraulic system: Leaky hoses or a dead pump? Run. Rebuilds cost $2,500+ if you find parts.
- OEM parts: Surprisingly available, but budget extra for seals and gaskets.
- Paperwork: No title? Walk away.
Cost of Ownership:
- Restoration: $5K−$10K for a showroom build.
- Maintenance: Change hydraulic fluid yearly. Treat it like a Ducati—high love, high cost.
Why This Bike’s Value Will Explode
The 2-Trac is a sleeper hit. Here’s why it’ll keep appreciating:
- Limited supply: 445 bikes vs. millions of collectors.
- Cultural cachet: Featured in museums and “Top 10 Rare Bikes” lists.
- Modern parallels: Yamaha’s Tenere 700 borrows its spirit, reminding folks where it all started.
Experts predict values could hit $15K−$20K by 2030—especially for unmolested, low-mile examples.
Read: How 10K Riders Forced Yamaha to Fix the new 2025 Tenere 700
Conclusion
The WR450F 2-Trac isn’t just a bike. It’s a time capsule of Yamaha’s “screw it, let’s try it” era—a reminder that innovation often flops before it soars. Whether you’re a collector, investor, or just a gearhead with a soft spot for underdogs, this bike belongs in your garage.
FAQ
- How many WR450F 2-Tracs exist?
– 445 made globally. Maybe 100-200 survive.
- Why is the 2-Trac system special?
– It’s hydraulic, not mechanical—smoother, lighter, and way cooler.
- What’s a fair price?
– $8K−$12K for a runner. $15K+ for minty-fresh.
