2018 Yamaha YZF-R1 is brought into the country via CBU route and gets powered by 998 cc four-cylinder engine making 200 horsepower
India Yamaha Motor Pvt. Ltd. has introduced the new YZF-R1 in the domestic market as part of consolidating its superbike offering for our local customers. The 2018 YZF-R1 is a flagship model developed with the help of the Japanese brand’s track expertise in the premiere motorcycle racing class, MotoGP. It has been made available in two colors – Yamaha Blue and Tech Black – and carries a whopping price tag of Rs. 20,73,074 (ex-showroom, New Delhi). It was earlier showcased at the 2017 EICMA show in Milan.
One of the main reasons for its extravagant price is that it is being brought into the country via Completely Built Unit (CBU) route and is a highly advanced litre-class machine you could currently buy. The high-performance YZF-R1 takes power from a 998 cc, cross-plane, four-cylinder, four-valve engine which is good enough to develop a maximum power output of 200 hp without ram air pressurization.
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Adapted from YZR-M1 cross plane technology, its crankshaft allows for an uneven 270° – 180° – 90° – 180° firing sequence for high levels of linear torque with outstanding traction. The lightweight chassis is compact and features a magnesium rear frame and long swing arm for superior handling along with specially developed suspension and magnesium wheels.
The upgraded features include the New Quick Shift System (QSS) and Lift Control System (LIF). The former enables faster downshifting capability and full-throttle clutchless upshifting. While going down the gears, the ECU matches engine speed for instantaneous gear changes with minimised chassis disruption and enhance preciseness. The New Lift Control System (LIF), on the other hand, has been tuned for more progressive mapping.
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For optimal performance, the engine utilises a high compression 01:01 PM cylinder head featuring a pent roof combustion chamber with large diameter intake and exhaust valves. Moreover, the titanium con rods and forged aluminum pistons aid in instant response with high power and strong linear torque. A YZR-M1 type central air inlet feeds a large capacity 10.5 litre airbox for better intake efficiency.
Atmospheric air is pumped into the electronically activated Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake (YCC-I) funnels. They adjust length to match engine rpm for optimal power characteristics. For peak power and strong linear torque, The cross plane engine is connected to a lightweight 4-2-1 exhaust system. A servomotor controlled exhaust valve adjusts gas flow for enhanced response along with stronger engine output and linear torque. The compact mid-ship muffler enables greater mass centralization and of course spit out a unique sound.
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The aluminum Delta-box frame has a long upward-truss type swing arm and magnesium rear frame, underlining the bike’s racing heritage. The short 1,405 mm wheelbase and low wet weight of just 199 kilograms render the YZF-R1 high level of agility and responsiveness both on and off the track. The central forced air intake, high screen and low headlight position have aerodynamic benefits too.
The front cowl has the YZR-M1 type race bike silhouette while the compact LED headlights on either side of air intake and dual LED running lights elevate the sporty stance of the motorcycle. The Yamaha YZF-R1 is a pinnacle of performance in the litre-class supersports segment ever since it received a major overhaul two years ago and for 2018 the changes are appreciable to set new benchmarks. It competes against Kawasaki ZX-10R, Suzuki GSX-1000R and Honda CBR1000RR.
2018 Yamaha YZF-R1 Images
