Compared to the previous model the 2012 Yamaha YZF-R1 didn’t changed too much. However, the main upgrade is the addition of a traction control system. If in the past traction control was a rarity among motorcycles, in the latest years has started to become a mainstream feature.

Apart from the traction control system the new YZFR-R1 has also received a fresh nose, a slotted top yoke inspired by the YZR-M1, new muffler end caps, a longer sear shock and grippier footpegs. The rear spring reat is also slightly softer which improves the ride comfort.

Though despite its upgrades the Yamaha YZF-R1 is still a half step behind models like the Aprilia RSV4 or Kawasaki ZX-10R which would beat it any time on a race track. However, the Yamaha YZF-R1 is a better daily commuter as is more comfortable, smooth and fast enough to keep your dopamine levels high.

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

2013 Yamaha YZF-R1

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2013 Yamaha YZF-R1
  • Engine/Motor: 998cc, liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC 16 valves (titanium intake valves)
  • Transmission: 6-speed w/multiplate slipper clutch
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

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 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 response.

-In keeping with this machine’s exceptional cornering ability and crisp handling, the aluminum frame has been designed to offer exceptional rigidity balance. The rear frame is lightweight Controlled-Fill die-cast magnesium, contributing the optimum mass centralization. Suspension includes YHSJ (Yamaha Hydraulic Systems 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 the 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 throttle 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 crossplane-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 and 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 exceptional 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.

Additional Features

-The instrumentation includes everything a rider wants to know, including gear position.

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)

MSRP

$14,490 (Team Yamaha Blue/White) Available from September 2012


Quotes

Asphaltandrubber ---- "Simply stating that the “2013 YZF-R1 and YZF-R6 come back in a variety of new and exciting colors,” Yamaha’s press release is void of any mentioning of an update to the R1 or R6′s electronics package or other technical add-ons, let alone any revision to the major components of the machines."

Autoevolution ---- "At the same time, the 2013 YZF-R1 sports the unique and innovative fork system called YHSJ, or Yamaha Hydraulic Systems Japan. The left fork controls the compression damping, while the right one adjusts the rebound damping. Again, a MotoGP feature for the pros."

Totalmotorcycle ---- "With back to back Superbike Championships and packed with MotoGP technology, the 2013 YZF-R1 is the most advanced bike ont he planet. And unlike anything else. That's because it's the world's first 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.""