IS A STARK VARG FASTER THAN A YZ450F?

Is the Stark Varg Faster Than the YZ450F?

In the ever-evolving world of motocross, the debate around electric versus gas-powered bikes is heating up. Today, we’re diving deep into a head-to-head comparison of the Stark Varg and the Yamaha YZ450F to see which bike reigns supreme on the track. With professional rider Nick Tomasunas at the helm, we’re in for an exhilarating ride at Fox Raceway in Southern California.

The Setup: Getting Ready for the Race

Nick starts off by sharing his excitement about the test. He’s no stranger to the Yamaha YZ450F, having spent countless hours riding it. With a solid background on this combustion engine bike, he’s ready to put it up against the Stark Varg, which he has also become quite familiar with after investing over 100 hours riding it.

The plan is simple: Nick will hit the track and complete three to four laps on both bikes, aiming to find out which one is faster. The Stark Varg will be tuned to about 56 to 58 horsepower, which is comparable to the YZ450F’s stock power range of 55 to 60 horsepower. This setup ensures that both bikes are as evenly matched as possible.

First Impressions on the Track

As Nick hits the track, he quickly realizes the advantages of riding the Stark Varg. The first thing he notes is how much more comfortable he feels on the electric bike. The absence of noise and the lack of a clutch allows him to focus more on the ride rather than the mechanics of shifting gears. He feels calm and collected, which helps him avoid arm pump—a common issue when pushing hard on a gas bike.

However, there’s a catch: the quieter nature of the Stark Varg means that other riders can’t hear him approaching, making it tricky to navigate around them during the lap. This factor becomes a significant challenge when trying to set a fast lap time.

The Performance Comparison

After completing a few laps, Nick reflects on the differences between the two bikes. He admits that while he felt faster on the YZ450F, the Stark Varg was surprisingly competitive. In fact, he managed to clock a lap time that was only half a second slower on the YZ450F than on the Stark Varg.

One notable point he makes is that the YZ450F allows him to clear a big triple jump on the track, something he wasn’t comfortable attempting on the Stark Varg. This jump is crucial for maintaining momentum and speed throughout the lap. Despite the slight edge in speed for the YZ450F, Nick emphasizes that he felt more stable and secure on the Stark Varg, especially over longer rides.

Comfort vs. Speed

Nick’s heart rate tells an interesting story. While riding the YZ450F, his heart rate spikes to around 115 beats per minute due to the intensity of the ride, noise, and physical demands. In contrast, he feels much more relaxed on the Stark, which contributes to a lower heart rate and less fatigue over time.

This leads to an important conclusion: while the YZ450F may have the speed advantage, the Stark Varg offers a more comfortable and controlled riding experience. If Nick were to participate in a longer race, he would undoubtedly prefer the Stark for its ease of use and lower physical strain.

What the Riders Need to Know

For those considering a switch from gas to electric, there are several factors to weigh. The Stark Varg is not just about speed; it’s about the overall riding experience. The electric bike’s smoother power delivery and lower maintenance needs can be significant advantages for many riders.

However, the YZ450F still holds its ground as a powerful contender in the gas bike category. It’s loud, aggressive, and offers a raw adrenaline rush that some riders crave. Nick’s experience highlights that while electric bikes like the Stark Varg may be the future, gas bikes still have a loyal following and strong performance capabilities.

Final Thoughts

The ultimate question remains: is the Stark Varg faster than the YZ450F? The answer is nuanced. While the YZ450F clocked slightly faster lap times, the Stark Varg provided a more enjoyable and less physically taxing ride. For riders looking for performance, the YZ450F may still be the go-to choice. But for those who prioritize comfort, ease of use, and the benefits of electric technology, the Stark Varg is a formidable option.

If you enjoy these types of comparisons, leave your thoughts in the comments below! We’d love to hear what other bikes you want to see put to the test.