Yamaha YZF-R1 And YZF-R1M Review Features and Specifications

The Yamaha YZF-R1 or simply R1 is a 1,000 cc class sports motorcycle made by Yamaha. It was first released in 1998 and the latest significant updates were made in 2015. A higher-spec model is also produced called Yamaha YZF-R1M or R1M, and is differentiated from the standard R1 model by having more expensive components such as electronic semi-active Öhlins suspension, carbon fiber bodywork, Yamaha's Communication Control Unit, and Yamaha’s GPS data-logging system.

The Yamaha YZF-R1M features beautifully integrated bodywork and sleek, stylish lines which create an unmistakably aggressive, aerodynamic profile. R1M riders are treated to even higher levels of fit and finish thanks to full carbon-fiber bodywork, including a carbon windscreen fairing, side fairings, front fender and tail section, matched to a polished aluminum swingarm and topped with a unique serial-numbered YZF-R1M badge on top of the airbox cover. A new-for-2022 styling update further accentuates the premium carbon fiber bodywork and stunning aluminum fuel tank.

The slim aluminum Deltabox frame, magnesium subframe and polished aluminum swingarm contribute to a compact chassis design with outstanding track-focused handling. The motor mounts use the engine as a stressed member of the frame for optimal rigidity balance and fantastic cornering performance on the race track.

The R1M’s 998cc inline-four-cylinder engine features Yamaha’s exclusive crossplane crankshaft technology derived from Yamaha's YZR-M1 MotoGP® race bike. By equalizing inertial forces at the crankshaft, the CP4 motor delivers a direct feeling of linear torque, giving the rider the ultimate connection between throttle grip and the rear wheel.

The YZF-R1M features a cableless ride-by-wire Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle system that transforms the rider’s inputs into motion, with a full suite of IMU-powered electronic rider aids that bring new meaning to the term "rider confidence."

The YZF-R1M comes standard with an integrated Communications Control Unit (CCU) data-logging and GPS system that puts factory superbike technology in the palm of your hand, complete with GPS-powered course mapping, automatic lap timing and Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) mobile device adjustability.

The YZF-R1M features Öhlins® gas-charged NPX fork system. By utilizing a pressurized nitrogen chamber similar to a rear shock, oil cavitation is essentially eliminated to deliver consistent damping under the toughest conditions with unmatched ride quality and feel.

The YZF-R1M features the advanced Öhlins® ERS system. The motorcycle’s IMU sends vehicle data—such as vehicle speed, lean angle, acceleration and brake pressure—to a dedicated Suspension Control Unit (SCU) which rapidly adjusts the front and rear damping in real time for optimum suspension performance whether braking, cornering or accelerating. The ERS provides streamlined dynamic tuning modes for both street and track, as well as manual modes for conventional suspension tuning with fixed damping.

The YZF-R1M features 4-piston radial-mounted front calipers riding on big 320mm rotors for excellent stopping power, with a high-friction pad compound, and supported by a 220mm rear disc with compact floating caliper. The ABS hydraulic unit is light and compact, and the high-quality braided stainless steel front lines provide firm yet responsive control and feel.

LED headlights are both lightweight and compact, allowing for a more streamlined design of the front cowling with excellent visibility. The lights deliver a broader spread of illumination. LED front turn signals are integrated into the mirrors for improved aerodynamics while the LED tail light is stylish and highly visible.

The R1M features a brilliant full-color, thin-film transistor (TFT) meter, including front brake pressure and fore/aft G-force readouts which gives the rider feedback from the machine. It features both street mode and a track mode that focuses on performance information, such as YRC settings (including EBM and BC systems), a zoomed-in view of the tachometer in the upper rpm range, a lap timer, gear position indicator and speed.