[Auto / moto We drive the 2020 Yamaha R1 on the track

[UltimaTexCS]

In 1998 Yamaha launched the R1, a sporty motorcycle that has evolved with technology, an excellent chassis and is a direct heir to the M1 prototype that runs in MotoGP. There are now eight generations of the model that for the latter changed radically, based on a design that did not leave anyone indifferent and advanced electronics. And the best thing is that we were able to handle it on the Pegaso Track.

I can tell you that this test is not exactly current, but the model has not changed at all, perhaps only the color range since at present it is only in a blue tone.

Let's start with the design, this R1 broke a long tradition at the front, with headlights that looked like eyes, which depending on the generation were fairings or not. This was very controversial at the time, but the change lies in the aerodynamics, similar to the BMW S1000RR that left behind its asymmetric headlights. The R1 shows a more modern and “robotic” way to put it, with LED daytime running lights and headlights glued to the fairing. Of the rest, we found conventional shapes except in the rear tail and in the test we had, the bike had an exhaust system signed by Yoshimura that gave us a few extra hps.

In the mechanical section, we have a 998 cc 4-cylinder engine, which develops 197 hp and 83.5 lb-ft. The gearbox is six-speed without assistance, at least on this model. The inverted fork suspension is fully adjustable and offers as standard ABS brakes and engine mapping management in a simple way, which as we already know controls traction control, brakes and optimal power delivery when cornering.

In terms of dimensions, it has a length of 2,055 mm, a seat height of 855 mm and a weight of 201 kg in running order, practically a weight / power ratio of 1 to 1.

This time we will owe them the appreciation of handling in the city since the motorcycle was delivered directly to us in Pegaso without plates, that is, only for the track. But hey, I don't know who could say that a sports bike could be comfortable to ride on the street, come on, it can, but it heats up at temperatures above 100 °, they have a terrible lap range, at low speed it it feels heavy and of course, the posture is very uncomfortable. These bikes are for a track or if you have already hardened your back you can make long trips, or not so much, since the technical sheet gives us a consumption of 7.2 l / km.

Before starting the driving impressions, I mention that a few years ago I was able to drive the past generation of the Yamaha R1 and in a controlled situation I was able to accelerate to 280 km / h, but the feel of the new one from the start is completely different, pure power and also control that surely take this bike to an even higher speed.

The first warm-up laps began, that day the track was not as dirty as when we drove the Kawasaki Z900 so confidence came very quickly. This R1 has levels of traction control and I started with all the aids on, in this mode the acceleration although it was good, you knew that there was an electronic nanny taking care of you, in this way the motorcycle goes on rails even in the curve, the Throttle management is smooth and it's almost a ride.

I start to reduce the assists and the first thing the R1 demands of you is a good position, nothing to be relaxed, you must accommodate yourself by supporting the aerodynamics and start using your body to corner, the bike feels solid and powerful, and this is supported by a Loud, husky engine sound, outpacing the common in this rising high-pitched segment. In this mode, the power delivery is greater, and I notice that the Pegaso track is a little too small for the R1, in the acceleration zone you can barely deve

lop three speeds, for a moment you put a fourth and already rounds the 180 km / hr. Yes, crazy

To be honest I never completely eliminated the traction controls, since, when reaching minimum points, the R1 becomes a rough horse, you can skid away, and the curves require a bit of drift on the rear tire to be able to take them better, Besides, you are much more responsible for the acceleration with your right hand and yes, the braking as well.

One point that I have not made because I think it is the most important, is that even with the solidity that the R1 offers and that overwhelming power, the cornering is really simple, in a short time you will be with the knee down and with pronounced inclines. The fast cornering is exciting and soon your senses will want more speed, and in winding areas with the use of the body it becomes something sensitive (and an excellent cardiovascular exercise). Bending your body and almost resting your chin on the handlebars becomes something addictive, without a doubt this is the charm of these motorcycles, which even with others with more power