The Yamaha R1 needs little in the way of an introduction, least of all the highly anticipated new 2009 model. But for those living under a rock, the sixth generation R1 is all-new from the ground up.
Though upgrades are plentiful, the most noteworthy addition would be the 998cc four-cylinder crossplane crankshaft engine. A direct descendent from the M1 MotoGP bike, crossplane technology puts the connecting rods 90-degrees apart from each other for a "big-bang" power delivery. In other words, it's said to have the grunt of a V-twin with the top-end of a typical four cylinder motor.
Technical jargon aside, the only thing that really matters is when the rubber meets the road. Hard facts measure 146 HP and 72.8 LB-FT at the tire and 9.83 ETs at 144.2 mph in the quarter-mile. Stout numbers indeed, but peak figures are slightly down from the '08 model, and with a hefty wet weight of 477 pounds it's got some extra pork too.
From the moment you hit the starter this R1 stands alone. You're immediately greeted to a lumpy idle similar to a V4. The second thing you notice is the weight--it's thick and bulky.
However, once underway the R1 hides its weight nicely, the transmission is smooth and power is plentiful on the bottom half of the tach. It definitely feels powerful once the road opens up, but if you're waiting for the big top-end hit of a standard inline four you'll be disappointed. That's not to say the R1 is slow, but maybe deceptively fast would be a more appropriate explanation. The powerband holds the truth somewhere in between a twin and an inline four.
Handling is stable, but in transitions the extra mass can be felt. The brakes are strong and wind protection is surprisingly good.
Other than needing a diet, excessive heat from the underseat cans is a major complaint. This hog runs hot; we're talking 220+ degrees around town, and your cheeks get toasty enough to give new meaning to swampass. Another annoyance would be finding neutral--sometimes it's there and other times it's not.
Gripes aside, the new R1 is an interesting bike and a solid platform to build on. If you're used to inline four liter bikes this one will take some getting used to, but change can be good.
2009 Yamaha YZF-R1
MSRP: $12,390
Motor: 998cc, crossplane crankshaft, inline four cylinder
Rear-wheel horsepower: 146
Measured torque: 72.8
Quarter Mile: 9.83 sec. @ 144.2 mph
Measured wet weight: 477 pounds