For the young member of the family who wants to take on the whoop sections and jumps of the motocross track—and perhaps compete in 65cc amateur national events—there’s the 2020 Yamaha YZ65. The YZ65 is track-focused with its adjustable suspension, bump-absorbing steel frame, grippy Maxxis Maxxcross SI tires, 65cc powerplant, manual clutch, and six-speed transmission. Further, this model offers plenty of adjustment in the control area with its four-position-adjustable handlebar clamp, which will surely come in handy as the young YZ65 rider grows and yearns for more room aboard the small-bore two-stroke.
Nothing says “track focused” more than an introduction at the 2018 San Diego Supercross. Shortly after it’s 2018 unveiling, we tested the 2018 YZ65 and found that “the YZ65 impressed us from the get-go with a powerful engine with a crisp throttle response, plush suspension, and a balanced chassis,” something we hope to find true for 2020 as well.
Competition includes the Kawasaki KX65 ($3,699), KTM 65 SX ($5,049), and Husqvarna TC 65 ($5,149).
The YZ65 has seen a graphic update since its 2018 launch, but otherwise specs remain unchanged as does the price of $4,599. The YZ65 is available in Team Yamaha Blue.