20-Feb-2015
Aussie testers have enjoyed three sessions on the new YZF-R1 with different settings plus three sessions on the special edition M model fitted with Ohlins Electronic Race Suspension and Bridgestone racing slicks. Feedback so far suggests the new model is much closer to a race bike like the YZR-M1 than it is to the previous model R1.
The M model electronic suspension offers a selection of automatic settings - where the forks and shocks react to the track as you ride. Or you can fix a manual setting system to suit track conditions. This smart system communicates with the IMU and ECU and can work out the attitude of the bike and change it in less than a blink of the eye.
"It really is the closest a production bike has come to a full on race bike", says Isle of Man TT winner Cameron Donald.
The next group tests on Monday 23 Feb. We will bring you the lowdown from the track where Yamaha CEO and President Hiroyuki Yanagi will join R1 project leaders in a demonstration of YZF-R1 models through the ages.
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20-Feb-2015
Selected US, Australian and Japanese media are the first to sample the all new YZF-R1 at Sydney Motorsport Park. An in depth presentation on Thursday night highlighted just how close the new model is to Yamaha's YZR-M1 race bike, with an all new 200bhp engine, lightweight chassis, new KYB suspension, magnesium wheels and full electronics package. US presenter Mike Ullrich shared his M1 riding experience with the journalists and explained how similar the new R1 is to Rossi and Lorenzo's race weapons. The electronics, for example, are 90% similar to the M1.
Friday morning sees Isle of Man TT winner Cam Donald, World Superbike legend Steve Martin and Milwaukee Yamaha BSB rider Josh Brookes join regular magazine testers on the first ride. They have just finished their first 20 minute session on standard machines.
Feedback so far is super positive. We asked the three pro riders what they liked best about the new bike. Donald highlighted the lightweight handling package, Martin raved about the high torque motor and Brookes was impressed with the electronics package that makes the YZF-R1 so easy to ride.
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