Yamaha R1 and MT-09 Prices Slashed

Yamaha’s iconic superbikes, the 2018 YZF-R1 and the MT-09, have received a price cut thanks to the revised import duty on CBU (completely built unit) models. The price cuts are to the tune of Rs 2.57 lakh for the 2018 YZF-R1 and Rs 1.33 lakh for the MT-09. Therefore, the revised prices of the R1 and the MT-09 now stand at Rs 18.16 lakh and Rs 9.56 lakh (all prices, ex-showroom Delhi), respectively.

The 2018 YZF-R1 was launched in December 2017 and includes updates such as an auto-blip downshift feature on the quickshifter and a revised wheelie control. The 998cc, in-line 4-cylinder motor makes 200PS of power at 13,500rpm and 112.4Nm of torque at 11,500rpm. Weighing just 200kg, the R1 offers a phenomenal 1:1 power-to-weight ratio. Reigning all this power is a huge array of electronics like cornering traction control and cornering ABS, launch control and slide control all held together by a six-axis inertial measurement unit (IMU). Its aluminium deltabox chassis gets fully adjustable KYB 43mm front forks and a linked-type KYB fully adjustable rear monoshock damper. Braking is via dual 320mm discs with radially-mounted calipers and a 220mm rear disc.

The 2018 Yamaha MT-09, on the other hand, sees a huge change from the previous model. For starters, it gets a sharper design inspired by the MT-10. Also new is a fully adjustable front fork. Power comes from a 847cc, in-line triple motor. The power and torque outputs are rated at 115PS at 10,000rpm and 87.5Nm at 8500rpm, respectively. The bike weighs 193kg (kerb) and that makes for a lightweight fun machine. Electronics on board the MT-09 include three rider modes and three levels of traction control. The suspension setup comprises of 41mm fully adjustable KYB front forks and adjustable rear monoshock damping. Braking is via twin 298mm discs and a 245mm disc with standard ABS.

Both bikes are available in select Yamaha showrooms. The Yamaha R1 faces competition from the Kawasaki ZX-10R (Rs 18.08 lakh), Honda CBR 1000RR Fireblade (Rs 16.8 lakh), Suzuki GSX-R1000 (Rs 19.8 lakh) and the Ducati Panigale V4 (Rs 20.53 lakh). The MT-09, meanwhile, competes with the Triumph Street Triple S (Rs 8.71 lakh), Ducati 797 (Rs 8.03 lakh), Kawasaki Z900 (Rs 7.68 lakh) and the upcoming Suzuki GSX-750S.