Positioned in Yamaha's cross - motocross motorcycle lineup, the 2016 Yamaha YZ85 utilizes a 85 cc (5.2 cu in) liquid-cooled single cylinder, two-stroke layout. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 29 HP (21.2 kW) at 12,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 17.3 Nm (12.8 lb-ft) at 10,500 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 341.2 HP per liter and a 1,500 rpm working window between peak torque (10,500 rpm) and peak power (12,000 rpm), the engine character is placing it firmly in high-revving supersport territory where top-end breathing dominates.
On the scales, the YZ85 measures 71.2 kg (157 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.41 HP/kg (2.46 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 841 mm (33.1 in) seat height — resulting in a taller command-style riding posture suited to medium-to-tall inseams, combined with a 1,257 mm (49.5 in) wheelbase engineered for quick, flickable steering geometry. The 4.92-liter (1.3 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints.
Within MotoLibrary's Yamaha archive, this model family spans 19 indexed model years from 2008 to 2026, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.
Specific Output
341.2 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.41 HP/kg (2.46 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
10,500–12,000 rpm
Standover Height
841 mm (33.1 in)
Engine
Displacement85.0 ccm (5.19 cubic inches)
Engine TypeSingle cylinder, two-stroke
Engine DetailsReed-valve-inducted
Power29.0 HP (21.2 kW)) @ 12000 RPM
Torque17.3 Nm (1.8 kgf-m or 12.8 ft.lbs) @ 10500 RPM
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
