to-back setup is well liked by every test
rider, even the Austrian die-hards.
The cockpit on the new-gen Yamaha
remains slim and narrow. This design
allows riders to move easily from front
to back while keeping the bike securely
positioned underneath. New footpeg
mounts are shaved down for improved
grip, reducing the chance of your boots
resting on the actual mounts instead
of the pegs. Additionally, the throttle
tube has been spaced out to alleviate
dreaded thumb blisters that can occur
from riding a YZ. These small modifica-
tions can make a significant difference
after an extensive eight-bike test.
What is there to say that hasn't been
said about the new YZF? By far, it feels
like the fastest bike of the bunch. Its
raw, loud power comes alive quickly
and makes you feel like you're set-
ting the Superpole lap time every time
you're out on the track. However, the
front brake and the noise of the air-
box continue to leave some room for
improvement. We tend to overlook these
small flaws as the bike packs a strong
engine package and class-leading sus-
pension. Coupled with the easy-to-use
Power Tuner app and a sub-10K price,
the Yamaha can't be beat. CN
VOLUME ISSUE DECEMBER , P147
