olee Posted July 15, 2019 Posted July 15, 2019 Yamaha have revealed their next generation R1 and R1M that boasts more efficient aerodynamics, an improved electronics package and reworked engine internals for greater performance. The drop-dead gorgeous machines were unveiled at the weekend’s American WSB round in Laguna Seca. The R1 gets a more MotoGP-inspired styling makeover with new screen and fairing that integrates straight into the tank, promising a 5.3% increase in aerodynamic efficiency and greater comfort for a broader range of riders. Alongside improved aero, there is also greater fairing rigidity, thanks to an aluminium air duct behind the front section, as well as titanium lower panelling covering the exhaust. This is coupled with new LED headlights which help give the bike a more aggressive stance. Both the R1 and R1M will also feature an aluminium fuel tank and aluminium wheels, too. Meanwhile, the now Euro5-compliant 998cc crossplane crank engine has been reworked to include a new intake system, complete with new 10-hole Bosch fuel injectors for a wider spray angle giving a more efficient burn. Although power remains unchanged at a claimed 197bhp, the bike receives updated finger-follower rocker arms and new cam lobes, that deliver more stable valve operation at high rpm. Extracting this top-end rush is made easier by a lighter ride-by-wire throttle, which is said to give a more natural feel. To help pass emissions regulations, the reworked exhaust system now also features four catalysers, with one pair in front of the exhaust chamber and the other set at the rear. Both the silencer itself and the bike's engine heat protectors also feature noise reduction measures. Keeping all of that performance under control is an updated 43mm Kayaba fork with a new damping set up, alongside a revised steering damper and reworked rear shock settings. Helping improve feel further are new Bridgestone Battlax RS11 tyres and a whopping seven electronic control systems, including a new Brake Control (cornering ABS), which works in tandem with the bike's six-axis IMU. Featuring two modes (one fixed and one self-adjusting), it assesses data like lean angle and hydraulic brake pressure, to prevent lock-ups. Additional braking power is delivered by new high-friction front pads. Available in blue or black, the bike also gets a new three-mode Engine Braking Management unit, that allows riders to adjust the severity of engine braking (high, medium or low). Designed for greater deceleration performance, the system uses data including gear position, engine rpm, throttle position and throttle valve position, before the bike's ECU alters throttle opening, ignition timing and fuel injection to suit. The latest R1 also gets an updated launch control system, which has now been modified to activate at 9000rpm, at a throttle opening of 41 degrees, producing faster race starts. What's more, all of these system indicators will be visible through an improved TFT dash.
Recommended Posts