VOL. 52 ISSUE 8 FEBRUARY 24, 2015 P55
being rather tired at the end of each session (the
heat and humidity didn't help, plus a little fitness
wouldn't hurt), but that doesn't disguise the fact
that this is a brilliant motorcycle. However, shift
your focus to the R1M and things start to get really
good.
The main point of difference between the
standard R1 and the up-spec R1M is that beautiful
electronic Öhlins suspension, carbon bodywork
and the GPS data logging system. The engine
and chassis (i.e. frame and wheels) are the
same across both machines, as are the majority
of electronics. However, the electronic Öhlins
transforms the R1 from a very good sportbike to
a brilliant one. As the Öhlins changes the damp-
ing rates up to 80 times per second while you
ride, initial braking stability is greatly improved.
This is mainly due to slightly increased and more
progressive weight transfer, allowing you to really
squash the front Bridgestone into the tarmac
and feel exactly what it's doing. Off the brakes
(Far left) The Öhlins fork on the R1M is a work of art.
(Left) The R1's meter is a very important piece of ma-
chinery. (Bottom) The R1M's Ohlins shock is 100-per-
cent adjustable—and then some.
Without question,
the new Yamaha R1
is the company's
most technologically
advanced production
bike ever.
