Yamaha revealed the 2014 version of its YZF-R1 champion. The motorcycle continues to deliver first class performances as is equipped with a comprehensive list of high end technologies.

One of the most impressive technologies that can be found under the YZF-R1’s skin is the seven-level Traction Control system which is coupled with a three level D-Mode electronic throttle response control.

The motorcycle’s backbone is represented by a light yet stiff aluminum frame that was carefully forged to be a perfect match for the sporty character of the YZF-R1. Moreover, the rear frame is lightweigt Controlled-Fill die-cast magnesium, contributing to the optimum mass centralization.

As far as suspensions are concerned, the Yamaha YZF-R1 is packed with a front, fully adjustable 43mm inverted fork and a rear 4-way adjustable single shock.

At the heart of the Yamaha YZF-R1 lies a 998cc, liquid-cooled 4-Stroke DOHC 16 Valves engine which is kept in leash by a six speed transmission with six speed multiplate slipper clutch.

Hit the jump for more information on the 2014 Yamaha YZF-R1.

yamaha-yzf-r1

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: yamaha-yzf-r1

2014 Yamaha YZF-R1

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2014 Yamaha YZF-R1
  • Engine/Motor: liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC 16 valves
  • Transmission: 6-speed
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Overview

The superbike champion.

With back-to-back Superbike Championships in 2011 and 2012 and packed with MotoGP technology, the YZF-R1 is the most advanced Open Class sportbike on the planet. And unlike anything else. That's because it's the world's first production motorcycle with a crossplane crankshaft. Resulting in incredibly smooth power delivery and outrageous torque for a rush like never before. From the track to the street, the R1 truly is"the 1."

2014 Yamaha YZF-R1 Key Features:

- The YZF-R1 benefits from MotoGP® technology - a seven-level Traction Control system. The system has been developed so the rider does not feel any unnatural or harsh intervention from the system. In addition, traction control can aid in reducing tire wear due to less wheel spin. Coupled with the three level D-Mode electronic throttle response control, riders have 21 different choices available to tailor the YZF-R1 to their riding preference.

-This R1 keeps all the technological superiorities developed for its predecessor: YCC-T® (Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle) is a MotoGP® inspired fly-by- wire technology used to deliver instant throttle response. YCC-I® is Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake which is a variable intake system that broadens the spread of power. The fuel injection system provides optimum air/fuel mixtures for maximum power and smooth throttle repsonse.

-In keeping with this machines exceptional cornering ability and crisp handling, the aluminum frame has been designed to offer exceptional rigidity balance.The rear frame is lightweigt Controlled-Fill die-cast magnesium, contributing the optimum mass centralization. Suspension includes YHSJ (Yamaha Hydraluic System Japan) front forks which use one of the tricks developed for our winning MotoGP® bikes: independent damping. The left fork handles compression damping and the right side handles rebound damping. And the rear shock adopts bottom linkage for optimum suspension characteristics.

-The sound on the YZF-R1 is unlike any other inline-four cylinder production supersport. The precise and throaty pulse of the exhaust note will have riders enthused every time the thottle is opened.

Engine:

- Crossplane crankshaft technology proven in victory after victory on MotoGP® machines provides a high-tech uneven firing interval. Unlike typical inline-four engine design, where the two outer and two inner pistons move together in pairs with 180°intervals, the crossplane crankshaft has each connecting rod 90° with a unique firing order of 270° –180° – 90° – 180°. This overcomes the inherent fluctuations in inertial torque during each engine revolution, and the accompanying peaky torque characteristics. Instead, combustion torque continues to build, giving the rider more linear throttle response with awesome power and traction out of the corners.

-Seven-level Traction Control System allows the rider to get more traction and drive while exiting corners.

-To maximize rider comfort as well as power output, the engine adopts a coupling-type balancer that rotates in the opposite direction as the crankshaft.

-This engine features forged aluminum pistons to take maximum advantage of the power characteristics. Titanium intake valves are lightweight.

-A forced-air intake system is adopted to increase intake efficiency by using the natural airflow during riding to pressurize the air in the air box. This contributes to outstanding power delivery characteristics in the high-speed range, while the design also helps to minimize intake noise.

-Slipper-type back torque-limiting clutch greatly facilitates braking/downshifting from high speed.

-The exhaust system is meticulously designed to enhance engine output while, thanks to its three-way catalyst technology, also reducing exhaust emissions. The silencer is a single expansion type, and the sound coming through from the unique crosspla crankshaft-equipped engine is unlike any other inline-four cylinder production supersport.

-This fuel-injected engine takes full advantage of YCC-T (Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle), the MotoGP®-inspired fly-by-wire technology used to deliver instant throttle response. There’s also YCC-I, Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake, the variable intake system that broadens the spread of power.

-Have it your way, thanks to Yamaha D-MODE (or “Drive Mode”) variable throttle control. There are three modes that control how YCC-T responds to throttle input from the rider. The selectable “A” mode puts more emphasis on engine response in low to midrange rpm. “B” mode, on the other hand, provides less sharp response to input for riding situations that require especially sensitive throttle operation. The standard map is designed for optimum overall performance. Selecting the map you want is as easy as pressing a button on the handlebars.

Chassis/Suspension:

- The frame has a combination of uncompromising rigidity where needed along with carefully achieved flex for the precise rigidity balance this bike needs to give the rider the full benefit of its handling and engine characteristics. It is a sophisticated combination of Controlled-Fill die-cast, stamping, and gravity casting… the exact technology needed for each portion of this advanced frame.

- Front forks take a page from the championship-winning design of our MotoGP® weapon, the M1. Since both forks always move together, compression damping duties can be confined to the left fork, while rebound damping is precisely handled by the right fork, reducing oil cavitation.

-The rear shock features both high and low speed compression damping plus an easy-to-use screw hydraulic adjustment for preload. This unit also adopts a pillow-ball-type joint for excep tional shock absorption, road hold feeling, and damper response. To achieve maximum performance, a bottom linkage is used to work with the rest of the chassis refinements for brilliant, crisp handling characteristics.

-Factory racers get machines tailored to their preferences. Welcome to the club. R1 has adjustable footrests, with a 15mm height and 3mm front-to-rear adjustment.

-Top triple clamps add to the appearance of the YZF-R1, reminiscent of those on the MotoGP® powerhouse YZR-M1.

-LED position lights enhance the YZF-R1’s unique styling.

Specifications

Engine type

998cc, liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC 16 valves (titanium intake valves)

Bore x Stroke

78.0mm X 52.2mm

Compression Ratio

12.7:1

Fuel Delivery

Fuel Injection with YCC-T and YCC-I

Ignition

TCI: Transistor Controlled Ignition

Transmission

6-speed w/multiplate slipper clutch

Final Drive

#530 O-ring chain

Suspension / Front

43mm inverted fork; fully adjustable, 4.7-in travel

Suspension / Rear

Single shock w/piggyback reservoir; 4-way adjustable, 4.7-in travel

Brakes / Front

Dual 310mm disc; radial-mount forged 6-piston calipers

Brakes / Rear

220mm disc; single-piston caliper

Tires / Front

120/70ZR17M/C 58W

Tires / Rear

190/55ZR17M/C 75W

Length

81.5 in

Width

28.1 in

Height

44.5 in

Seat Height

32.9 in

Wheelbase

55.7 in

Rake (Caster Angle)

24.0°

Trail

4.0 in

Fuel Capacity

4.8 gal

Fuel Economy**

33 mpg

Wet Weight***

454 lb

Primary Reduction Ratio

65/43 (1.512)

Secondary Reduction Ratio

47/17 (2.765)

Gear Ratio - 1st Gear

38/15 (2.533)

Gear Ratio - 2nd Gear

33/16 (2.063)

Gear Ratio - 3rd Gear

37/21 (1.762)

Gear Ratio - 4th Gear

35/23 (1.522)

Gear Ratio - 5th Gear

30/22 (1.364)

Gear Ratio - 6th Gear

33/26 (1.269)

Warranty

1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty)

Price

$14,490


* Price and Specifications subject to change without notice. Please read your Owner’s Manual and all labels before operation.

** Fuel economy estimates are based on US EPA exhaust emission certification data obtained by Yamaha. Your actual mileage will vary depending on road conditions, how you ride and maintain your, vechile, accessories, cargo and operator/passenger weight.

*** Wet weight includes the vechile with all standart equipment and all fluids, including oil, coolant (as applicable) and a full tank of fuel. It does not include the weight of options or accessories. Wet weight is useful in making real-world comparisions with other models.

Verdict

Is hard to find any real faults to the Yamaha YZF-R1, as it comes with a bullet proof built quality, is reliable to the core and is packed with all the goodies expected from a bike of its class.

Its 998cc inline-four-cylinder engine is almost vibe-free rewarding you with a linear power delivery and a tasty exhaust note and plenty of power.

As far as ride and handling are concerned, the YZF-R1 feels heavier than one might expect, especially if you’ll compare it to some of today’s compact 1000s. However, on road it stays glued to the ground and lets you ride it as fast as you can without too much fuss. It is also very comfortable and once on board you’ll get plenty of leg room.