Show #453 - Triumph TF-450 Vs. Yamaha YZ450F and Endurocross Talk

·1 hr 27 min·5 clips

Kris Keefer raced a modified Triumph TF-450 and Yamaha YZ450F back-to-back to see which 450 is better for different riders.

The episode opens with host Kris Keefer delivering sponsor messages and casual banter with his family, Aiden and Heather. He then introduces the main topic: a back-to-back race test of a modified Triumph TF-450 and Yamaha YZ450F. Keefer details the modifications made to both bikes, including Enzo suspension, aftermarket ECUs, and exhaust systems. He raced both bikes in two classes at the Fall Classic at Glen Helen. Keefer shares his results, noting he got holeshots on the Triumph despite prior concerns about its power. He compares the bikes' characteristics: the Triumph has a smoother, more manageable power delivery and corners better, but transmits more vibration and has less bump absorption. The Yamaha has more power, better straight-line stability, and is more comfortable in chop, but can be more tiring to ride. Keefer concludes the choice depends on the rider's fitness and style. The episode includes a segment where Keefer cold-calls Endurocross racer Max Gersten. They discuss whether riders need 450s for Endurocross starts, the specialization of the sport, and Gersten's view that modern riders like Johnny Walker are more skilled than past champions. Earlier, Keefer and his son Aiden discuss Aiden's first professional race where they competed against each other. The show wraps with more sponsor reads and final thoughts.

As heard by us

A race-day comparison that links bike feel to the rider's body, pace, and endurance.

The episode centers its motocross talk on a useful race-day question: how the Triumph feels when a rider is pushing for pace, not just turning laps.

Read the full review in PlayNext →

Why you'd press play

Want a moto listen that gets into race-day feel, cornering confidence, and what kind of rider a bike suits?

Read the full recommendation in PlayNext →

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