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Refined Specimen
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2007 Yamaha YFZ-R1
Jeff Buchanan
01/03/2008
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Action photos by Don Williams
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The new Delta Box aluminum frame has been tuned for optimum flex under intense structural demands at high speeds to help the machine absorb the stresses passing through it. The new truss style swingarm has been lengthened 16mm for added stability and is constructed to accommodate a wider race tire. Wheelbase is a tidy 55.7" and contributes to a fast, predictable turn-in, with wonderfully intuitive feel that makes hitting marks and apexes on a race circuit extremely easy—further exemplifying the influence from Yamaha's Grand Prix garage.
To illustrate just how far engineers have gone to imbue the R1 with GP level performance, they chose to decrease the diameter size of the dual front brake rotors from 320mm to 310mm to reduce rotating mass. The 6-piston calipers are radial-mounted to deliver superior, stable stopping power. A Brembo radial-pump front master cylinder—with an adjustable lever—is employed for improved power and feel. Rear unit is a single 220mm disc grabbed by a single-piston caliper. Click on image to enlarge.
Inverted 43mm KYB forks with adjustable preload, compression damping, and rebound damping handle suspension on the front. The rear is suspended by a single shock with adjustable hi/lo-speed compression damping, rebound, and spring preload. Hollow bolts and various lightweight fasteners, along with lightweight five-spoke wheels contribute to the R1's claimed dry weight of 390 pounds.
The R1 is a serious race machine, the result of building off technology from the GP wars. It deserves the wide-open expanses of a race circuit. To take possession of one of these thoroughbreds and keep it within the legal and responsible—not to mention sane—confines of public roads is a travesty, bordering on the unjust. Don't let all of Valentino's hard work go unrewarded. Although the R1 is a beautiful canyon bike and can handle the daily grind, do yourself and the bike a favor and take it to the track occasionally.
www.yamaha-motor.com RIDING STYLE
Helmet: AGV XR-2
Leathers and gloves: Dainese
Boots: Sidi Vertigo Corsa
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