VOL. 51 ISSUE 45 NOVEMBER 11, 2014 P59
YZF-R1
F
or 2015 Yamaha gave its YZF-R1
a thorough freshening up. It has
an all-new design from nose to
tail. The '15 R1 showcases many of the
features and race-proven technologies
learned from the company's extensive
experience within MotoGP.
The new R1 still employs its 998cc
inline four configuration with an uneven
firing order, but the compression ratio
has been bumped up slightly and rocker
arms now actuate valves, allowing for
more aggressive camshaft profiles. The
result? Quicker engine response and
increased top-end power, says Yamaha.
The R1 also gets an updated frame,
swingarm, and suspension (KYB), yet
the basic chassis geometry remains
unchanged from the '09-'14 generation
machine. A lighter (and slightly smaller
capacity) 4.5-gallon fuel tank is now fab-
ricated from aluminum instead of steel.
There are also lighter magnesium wheels
wrapped with Bridgestone's new RS-10
track-day rubber. All told, Yamaha claims
a 15-pound weight reduction (ready to
ride) compared to the '14.
Perhaps the biggest news is the ad-
dition of a new electronics package that
incorporates traction, slide, wheelie,
launch and unified braking control in
addition to adjustable engine/throttle
power settings. Each setting can be
manipulated via hardware on the handle-
bar and is displayed via a colorful TFT
display.
In addition, the base YZF-R1
($16,490) Yamaha will also be offering
a limited-edition 'M' version ($21,990)
that includes carbon fiber bodywork,
electronically adjustable suspension by
Ohlins, and a data acquisition device
that lets riders/tuners view motorcycle
data through their Android or iOS-pow-
ered smartphone. Both motorcycles will
arrive on showroom floors in the U.S.
February 2015. – Adam Waheed
