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YZF R1- History and Specification

YZF-R1
The YZF-R1 is a legend of the Super-Sport world. Yamaha launched the YZF-R1 after redesigning the Genesis engine to offset the crankshaft, gearbox input and output shafts. The R1’s performance is electrifying and yet what makes this motorcycle truly remarkable is its superbly rider-friendly character because Yamaha’s avant-garde, race-bred technology puts you confidently in control. This is a high performance machine with all the control you’ll ever need. At a standstill the motor spins up like a two-stroke and on the move the R1’s ability to accelerate, no matter where you are in the revs is astonishing.

History of YZF-R1
The 1999 R1 saw only minor changes apart from paint and graphics. Notable improvements were a redesigned gear change linkage and the gear change shaft length which was increased for better gear shifting. Fuel tank reserve capacity was reduced from 5.5 l (1.2 imp gal; 1.5 US gal) to 4.0 l (0.88 imp gal; 1.1 US gal), while the total fuel tank capacity was unchanged at 18 l (4.0 imp gal; 4.8 US gal). As high-performance motorcycle engines have grown more powerful, it’s become difficult to harness that power through the small contact patch on the rear tire. In 2000, Yamaha introduced a series of changes to improve the bike, plus minor changes to the body work to allow for better long duration ride handling.

A new fuel injection system was introduced for the 2002 year, which worked like a carburetor by employing a CV carburetor slide controlled by vacuum created by the engine. With a similar power output to the 2000-2001 bike, the engine was remained largely the same. Also in 2002, Yamaha released the newly developed “Deltabox III” frame, which, with its hydro formed construction, dramatically reduced the total number of frame welds, thereby greatly improving the frame’s strength and torsional rigidity.

The 2004 R1 produces a stated 172 hp (128 kW) at the crankshaft (excluding ram air,180 hp (130 kW) with ram air) and also weighs 172 kilograms (dry). The conventional front brake calipers were replaced by radially-mounted calipers, activated by a radial master cylinder. Also newly added for this year was a factory installed steering damper. Combined with the changes to the frame, it helped to eliminate the tendency of the handlebars to shake violently during rapid acceleration or more so during deceleration on downgrade and less-than-perfect surfaces (aka “tank slapping”).

In 06, Yamaha is now rated with 180 hp (130 kW) at the flywheel. In addition, the swingarm was extended 20 mm longer due to acceleration instability. Also, in 2006 the 50th anniversary of Yamaha racing in America, Yamaha released the limited edition version in original Yamaha racing colors.

An all-new YZF-R1 for the 2007 model year was announced on 8 October, 2006. Key features include an all-new inline four-cylinder engine; going back to a more conventional 4-valve per cylinder rather than Yamaha’s trade mark 5-valve genesis layout.

In 2009, Yamaha has unveiled the 2009 YZF-R1. The 2009 R1 also features D-Mode variable throttle control, allowing the rider to adjust performance characteristics to suit the riding conditions and their intentions. Standard mode is mapped for optimum performance, however the rider can also select from A Mode for sportier response low to mid-speed range, and B Mode for subtler response in situations that demand sensitive throttle work.

Also new for 2009 is the inclusion of D-MODE variable throttle control function that enables the rider to adjust performance characteristics to match a variety of riding conditions.

Handling is improved by a new, more advanced chassis. Control filled die-cast frame rails are used to balance high vertical rigidity with low lateral rigidity, enabling increased stability in cornering and high speed stability.

Visually the new R1 breaks new ground leading with twin projector beam headlights concentrated near newly placed forced air intake ducts. The sculpted body work features inner and outer shells controlling airflow around the bike at high speeds and forcing more cool air to the radiator and engine bay while eliminating the need for hot-air vents usually located at the sides of the radiator. The most striking visual change to the 2009 R1 is the twin project beam headlights, sitting free of any sort of lens covering. Directly above and behind each light are the forced air intake ducts, which by being integrated with the overall headlight design, allows for a smoother form in design.

YZF R1-Specification

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
Chassis
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	120/70ZR17
Tires/Rear	190/55ZR17
Dimensions
Length	81.1 in
Width	28.1 in
Height	44.5 in
Seat Height	32.8 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
Other
Primary Reduction Ratio	65/43 (1.512)
Secondary Reduction Ratio	47/17 (2.765)

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