Yamaha launches the 2018 version of the YZF-R1 in India

India Yamaha Motor has launched the all-new 2018 model of the YZF-R1 in a bid to strengthen its mark in the Indian superbike segment. Updated features include a new Quick Shift System for seamless upshifts and downshifts, and a remapped Lift Control System to prevent the front wheel from lifting off the ground. The YZF-R1 is powered by a 998cc, crossplane, 4-cylinder, 4-valve engine that develops 202.8PS without ram air pressurization. Derived from the YZR-M1, its crossplane crankshaft gives an uneven 270° - 180° - 90° - 180° firing sequence for a linear spread of torque.

The engine uses a high compression 1:1 PM cylinder head featuring a pent roof combustion chamber with large diameter intake and exhaust valves to achieve optimum performance. And for instant response with high power and strong, linear torque, the 2018 YZF-R1 is equipped with titanium connecting rods and forged aluminium pistons. For optimal intake efficiency, the central air-inlet feeds a large capacity 10.5-litre airbox. Fresh air is force fed into the electronically-activated Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake (YCC-I) funnels that adjust their length to match engine rpm for optimum power characteristics which helps produce high levels of usable performance.

For peak power and a linear torque band, the crossplane engine is equipped with a lightweight 4-2-1 exhaust system. A servomotor controlled exhaust valve adjusts gas flow for a stronger engine output, while the compact exhaust end contributes towards mass centralisation and emits a growl that almost resembles a V4 engine.

Commenting on the launch of the new YZF-R1, Roy Kurian, senior vice-president of sales and marketing, Yamaha Motor India Sales Pvt. Ltd., said, “The new YZF-R1 model will strengthen Yamaha in the superbike segment in the Indian market. It inherits its technology from Yamaha’s racing machine YZR-M1. This model also highlights Yamaha’s improved aerodynamics which posts it closer to the MotoGP attributes, and which is a rare potential available in today’s market. Yamaha plans to increase its market share in the supersports segment as the new YZF-R1 is expected to attract younger racing enthusiasts.”

The YZF-R1 gets a short wheelbase of 1405mm and a low kerb weight of 199kg, which should make the bike agile while tackling corners. The Yamaha YZF-R1 will compete against the BMW S 1000 RR, the Aprilia RSV4, Kawasaki ZX10R, Honda CBR1000RR and the Suzuki GSX-R1000. Offered in two colours - blue and black - the 2018 Yamaha YZF-R1 is priced at Rs 20,73,074 (ex-showroom Delhi).