Introduction

In 2018, Yamaha launched its flagship model, YZF R1 as a CBU (Completely Built Unit) at Rs 20.39 lakh (ex-showroom price) in India. The body-frame of this heavyweight model is identical to Yamaha’s outgoing bikes. This bike has been updated with some added technologies such as the ‘lift-control system’ and the ‘quick-shift system’. There are some modifications in the fairing and a list of additional electronics. Moreover, this model also gets some minor power tweaks. This model is an evolution of Yamaha’s existing heavyweight bikes that flaunts significant updates since its first launch in 2015. Yamaha asserts that the facelift resulted in improved aerodynamic efficacy. 

How is the design? 

The new Yamaha YZF R1 gets aesthetical changes, alongside the minor tweaks in the engine and the side fairing. This bike further gets a longer central cowl and its side fairing in the current version matches the overall body, instead of the previous black panel. The dual LED eyebrows complement the projected eyes to complete the premium-ness of the bike. The sports-inspired design includes an aerodynamic windshield which is very identical to MotoGp’s M1. The body-frame of the bike continues with a magnesium rear-frame and a taller swingarm. The wheelbase and the chassis weight remain unchanged in this version. The TFT display comes in a rectangular shape. Although the engine remains the same, it has been revamped with a camshaft profile, finger-follower rocker arms, cylinder head and fuel injectors. It is still the same slim and sleek with a capacity of a massive 20 litres. The compact exhaust pipe and the projected tail section enhance the overall appearance of the bike and minimise air drag. 

How is the performance?

The new Yamaha YZF R1 is still propelled by the four-cylinder, 4-valve, 998 cc cross-plane engine which can generate a massive 200 hp of power at 13500 rpm and 112.4 Nm of peak torque at 11500rpm. The engine is paired with a rather lightweight, titanium exhaust which enables a stronger linear engine torque. The servo motor controlling the exhaust vault adjusts gas flow. This is significant for an enhanced response and stronger output from the engine. The high-compression cylinder of the bike contributes to optimal performance. Further, the titanium con-rods and the aluminium pistons lead to higher power and stronger torque to improve the overall seamlessness and smoothness of the engine. 

How does the Yamaha YZF R1 ride? 

The Yamaha YZF R1 does not ride easy. It is not a starter bike and the high-end Moto-GP inspired features such as the lightweight frame, high powered racing motor and suspension package makes it an intimidating machine to rear even for some of the most seasoned bike riders. The powerhouse in this superbike is totally an over-slaughter. The size of the engine makes this bike a medium cruiser, however, pretty massive for a sports bike. It weighs over 400 pound and apparently the engine unit accounts for half of the body weight. That is a good weighing ratio for track racing and will be a real thrilling experience, but quite scary when it comes to learning. The safety of the rider needs continual tweaking to keep up with the riding occasion and this may lead to trouble. 

How comfortable is the Yamaha YZF R1? 

The riding posture on the Yamaha YZF R1 is aggressive and uncomfortable, making it rather unsuitable on long hauls. The throttle is jerky, throwing the head of the unsuspecting rider to-and-fro soon as this bike takes off from the starting point. In terms of comfortability, this bike is not for cruising around the traffic, entering intersections or learning its clutch. Because of the acceleration behaviour of the bike, the Yamaha YZF R1 has been crafted to stop straight away which may get the bike flopping down painfully on its side. The rider is hunched forward always, stomach floating over the fuel tank. The foot controls are rear set and the rider is seated high-up because this bike is made for cornering efficiently without peg-scraping. This riding position cannot be continued for long hours and the friction zone of the clutch is not easily mastered. 

How's the tech? 

The cross-plane engine of the bike helps in balancing the weight during acceleration and through twists and turns and corners on the track. The titanium cod-run of the bike improves riding efficiency and lowers vibration at higher speed. Everytime, the machine is turned on, the rectangular display of the TFT glows up. This console displays all necessary information such as revolution counters, speedometer, trip metre, engine-heat level, odometer, turn indicators and clock. The high-end switchgears come with additional safety features such as slide-control, anti-wheelie, unified braking, inertial measurement and traction control. 

How's the mileage of the Yamaha YZF R1? 

The ‘Blue Core’ technology which is integral to the Yamaha YZF R1 helps deliver seamless performance and achieve a good mileage. This bike offers an average mileage of about 20 kmpl. However, on regular rides it can only achieve a maximum mileage of 16 kmpl. 

Is the Yamaha YZF R1 good value for money? 

AS mentioned earlier, the Yamaha YZF R1 is not your regular cruising bike that can be taken out for daily commuting. If this is the demand, then this bike should be out of the list. This bike is priced at 20.29 lakh and for those who are looking forward to experiencing the premium-ness of superbikes. This bike is crafted for seasoned racers and caters to its target segment. And from this point of view, this bike is a value for money. 

How is the after sales service? 

Yamaha has a strong network of service centres around the country that provides excellent after-sale services at reasonable cost. For the YZF R1, there are 3 free services and 1st one is offered after 60 days of purchase or after 1000 km, the 2nd one after 180 days or 5000 km and the 3rd one after 360 days or 10000km. 

Which motorbikes compete in this segment? 

Some of the rival motorcycles that compete in the same segment as the Yamaha YZF R1 are Ducati Panigale V4, Suzuki Hayabusa, Ninja ZX 10R, Suzuki Katana and Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX. 

Verdict (Value for money)

This bike is a good value for money and despite the high price, it comes at a slightly lower price than some of its rivals. For someone looking for a brilliant racing experience, this bike can be an ideal option.