Project Yamaha 3-Way - Part 3/4

Project Two - The Streetbike

Baseline: 2006 Yamaha R6 / Budget: $6,000

Our streetbike project upgrades have focused on bolt-on accessories that can be completed with simple hand tools. Last time we concentrated on appearance enhancements by adding a Competition Werkes fender eliminator, front and rear brake reservoir caps from Patrick's Performance, Vortex Racing rearsets and Graves Motorsports engine covers.

This month we looked at performance. One of our largest complaints of the 2006 R6 is the engine's power being too high in the rev range, making street riding a challenge. To access that power, we added Vortex Racing sprockets-adding five teeth in the rear and dropping one in the front. A 520-chain conversion using a RK O-ring chain helped free up a little bit of power as well. Those simple modifications transformed the R6 into a stoplight-to-stoplight rocket.

A full Graves Motorsports exhaust system replaced the stock system for even more power and reduced weight. Remapping the ignition and fuel system would have further increased power, but with the new gearing the bike quickly powers through any low-end flat spots.

Pazzo Racing adjustable levers replaced the stock ones and allow "on-the-fly" adjustments with a simple click of the wheel. The blue anodized finish adds style, and the short design increases comfort.

Now it's time to hit the streets on a bike equally at home in the canyons as well as the racetrack.

The Builder's Box

Michael Candreia and John Zamora, Shop Manager and Monkey with a Wrench
www.superstreetbike.com