Yamaha YZF-R1(2009)
With its slanted headlights and sharp-edged fairing, the new model was instantly recognizable as an R1. The striking blend of white bodywork and red anodized frame received a mixed reception.
The Rl was most impressive when being accelerated hard out of a bend. Its 998cc four- cylinder engine's crossplane crankshaft arrangement gave the rider superbly precise throttle response, which helped allow excellent drive. But although the Yamaha handled very well, it was heavy and slow to steer compared to some rivals, so changing direction required plenty of rider input.
Eleven years after the original YZF-Rl had arrived to blow every other bike off the road in 1998, Yamaha launched the model’s most significant update. The aggressively styled new Rl was still instantly recognizable, despite the bulging, projector-beam eyeballs in its fairing nose and the shorter silencers in its tailpiece. But its 16-valve engine featured a ‘crossplane’ crankshaft, as used by the YZR-M l on which Valentino Rossi had just won Yamaha’s third MotoGP world championship.
Redesigning the crankshaft so its journals were placed every 90 degrees, instead of in 180-degree pairs like a normal inline four-cylinder engine’s, gave a rasping exhaust note like that of the M l.
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More importantly, according to Yamaha, this layout removed unwanted ‘torque noise’ that interfered with a rider’s throttle control. The claims rang true when the Rl did indeed turn out to have exceptionally crisp, controllable throttle response, as well as fearsome power from its I79bhp motor.
Even Yamaha could hardly have dreamt that the revamped Rl would be such a hit. Following rave reviews and success in numerous magazine comparison tests, it sold well in markets all round the world, and its racing impact was dramatic.
As well as capturing several major National Superbike championships, the Rl took the biggest prize in production-based racing when American ace Ben Spies won Yamaha’s first ever World Superbike title
As well as capturing several major National Superbike championships, the Rl took the biggest prize in production-based racing when American ace Ben Spies won Yamaha’s first ever World Superbike title
Ex showroom price : 24,74,659
Specification Yamaha YZF-R1 (2009)
- Engine Liquid-cooled dohc 16-valve four
- Capacity 998cc (78 x 52.2mm)
- Maximum power 179bhp @ 12,500rpm
- Transmission Six-speed, chain final drive
- Frame Aluminium twin spar
- Suspension Telescopic front; single shock rear
- Brakes Twin discs front; disc rear
- Weight 403lb (183kg) dry
- Top speed 186mph (299km/h)
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