Yamaha YZF 1000 R1 test

Intro: Yamaha YZF 1000 R1

After the Kawasaki ZX10-R and the Honda Fireblade, it is now Yamaha's turn to unveil their new YZF 1000, better known as the " R1 ".

Esthetique: Sublime

Firstly, we can't help but be impressed seeing the bike for the first time. In 1997, the R1 introduced an all-new look. More than ever, the aesthetics of the Yamaha had everyone in agreement. And it is thanks to its looks that the R1 has resisted, in terms of sales, against machines that are, in fact, faster, such as the Suzuki GSX-R 1000. This latest R1 is sublime. Aggressiveness, finesse, elegance, balance... It has it all.

Motorization: Serious

Fitted with larger pistons and a shorter stroke travel, the 4-cylinder Yamaha has gained 2000 rpm from the prior version and now boasts 180 horsepower thanks to the air force system. It is by far the most notable progress found on the new bike. The torque measure in at 112.32 foot-pounds, remaining in the rears compared to its rivals. First reaction, it has a lot of power, but different than that of the Kawasaki ZX 10-R for example. The power comes in more consistently; even the speedometer began to shutter and pegged out at 170mph on the straight.
While riding down the road the engine is hardly scary, very much the opposite, in fact. In the end the benefit of its mighty injection is more sensible. You can enjoy the twisting turns of the road with never a concern for the gearbox. No matter the situation, the 4-cylinder motor always has plenty of pick-up, even in the lower regions of sixth gear.

On the road: Power is present

Even though the power is present, it still needs to be proven, thanks to the party cycle. First off, the chassis has evolved, it is more rigid, but most especially, by passing below the engine, thus reducing the width by a scant 6cm at the rider's thigh level. Resulting in a better a balance for the machine in the turns. Very high speeds, tight bends, the R1 doesn't fall victim to any of the traps along the racetrack. The traction is remarkable and a standard issue steering damper controls the tiny blips of acceleration. The road holding of the new R1 is far more reasonable than the former version. Another reassuring element on the R1 are the breaks. On the road, performance is not the primary point and we are more interested in its comfort level. And there is where we are spoiled.
The protection remains minimal, because you must curl up behind the fairing so as to not be subjected to the airflow. Having said that the R1 shakes like a coffee grinder from between 5 and 6000 rpms, which at the end of the day can be very tiring. Throw in a very firm seat and you can certainly understand that short breaks to take in the scenery are very welcome.The suspension offer up some nice surprises, it easily accommodates for the less than perfect Australian asphalt.