YAMAHA YZF R1

Yamaha launched the YZF-R1 after redesigning the Genesis engine  to offset the crankshaft, gearbox input and output shafts. This "compacting" of the engine yielded a huge dividend in that the total engine length was now much shorter. This allowed the wheelbase  to be shortened significantly which resulted in much quicker handling and an optimized center of gravity. The bike had a compression ratio of 11.8:1. with a 6-speed multi-plate clutch transmission.

The launch model Yamaha YZF-R1 was available in white/red or blue. Early models were subject to a worldwide recall for a clutch problem. Yamaha today describes the launch of the R1 as the true value of "Kando".


The 1999 R1 saw only minor changes apart from paint and graphics. Notable improvements were a redesigned gear change linkage and the gear change shaft length which was increased for better gear shifting. Fuel tank reserve capacity was reduced from 5.5 l (1.2 imp gal; 1.5 US gal) to 4.0 l (0.88 imp gal; 1.1 US gal), while the total fuel tank capacity was unchanged at 18 l (4.0 imp gal; 4.8 US gal). A second worldwide recall was issued for 1998 and early 1999 models to change a coolant hose clamp under the fuel tank which could, under hard use, come adrift.

Motorcycle Consumer News tests of the 1998 model year YZF-R1 yielded a 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) time of 2.96 seconds and 0 to 100 mph (0 to 160 km/h) of 5.93 seconds, a ¼ mile time of 10.19 seconds at 131.40 mph (211.47 km/h), and a top speed of 168 mph (270 km/h), with deceleration from 60 to 0 mph (97 to 0 km/h) of 113.9 ft (34.7 m). For the 1999 model year, Cycle World tests found a 0 to 60 mph (0 to 97 km/h) time of 3.0 seconds, ¼ mile time of 10.31 seconds at 139.55 mph (224.58 km/h), and a top speed of 170 mph (270 km/h).

In late 2008 Yamaha announced they would release an all new R1 for 2009. The new R1 takes engine technology from the M1 Motogp bike with its cross plane crankshaft, the first ever production motorcycle to do so. Crossplane technology, puts each connecting rod 90° from the next, with an uneven firing interval of 270°- 180°- 90°- 180°. The idea of this technology is to reduce internal crankshaft torque, thus giving the new R1 a more linear power delivery. Yamaha claims the bike would give the rider 'two engines in one', the low end torque of a twin and the pace of an inline four. As with previous incarnations of the R1 the 2009 model keeps its YCC-T (Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle). The R1 now produces 136-138[10] hp at the rear tire.

Another advancement included on the 09 model is D-Mode Throttle Control Valve Mapping which allows a rider to choose between 3 distinct maps depending on the rider’s environment. Each mode of operation controls YCC-T characteristics changing how the R1 reacts to driver input. The first mode is Standard Mode, which delivers performance for a wide variety of driving conditions. The second mode is "A" mode which will give a rider more available power in the lower to middle RPM range. The 3rd mode is "B" mode, which is a dial back of the previous mode, designed to soften throttle response in inclement weather and heavy traffic. D-Mode throttle control is controlled via the rider through a forward mode button near the throttle. The instrument panel is more comprehensive than previous models and the '09/'10 Yamaha YZF-R1 model now features a gear indicator as standard.

Overall handling of the R1 was improved through several changes to frame and suspension. A new sub frame was designed for the 09 R1 which is magnesium cast in a carbon fiber mold. This new sub frame offers a superior strength to weight ratio, while helping keep mass closer to the center of gravity and subsequently gives the bike greater handling performance. The rear shock on the 09 offers variable speed damping as well as an easy to tweak preload via a screw adjustment. The rear shock now connects underneath the swing arm through different linkage; a change from previous years models. Front suspension takes its cues from the M1 as the left fork handles compression damping while the right controls the rebound duties. As an added bonus to overall handling and safety, this is the first year Yamaha developers included an electronic steering damper on a production R1.

The overall look of the R1 has changed drastically. In a side by side comparison between last year’s model and the 09; to the eye, the 09 looks much more compact and could be compared to the size of the R6r. The center up exhaust on the 09 seems significantly larger compared to previous years, due in some respects to changes in emissions controls. The front has the same classic R1 shape, though the air intake location and headlamp design have been revamped on the 09 model; utilizing only projector lamps and using the new found design space within the nose cone to reroute ram air tubes next to the lights. Four color schemes have been released for the 09 Model: Blue/Black; Red/black; White/Red; Yellow/Black.

Testing the 2010 model year, Motorcyclist reported a ¼ mile time of 10.02 seconds at 144.23 mph (232.12 km/h), a top speed of 165 mph (266 km/h), and fuel mileage of 25 mpg-US (9.4 L/100 km)