Yamaha YZF R1

In late 2008 Yamaha announced they would release an all new R1 for 2009. The new R1 takes engine technology from the M1 Moto GP bike with its crossplane crankshaft, the first ever production motorcycle to do so. Crossplane technology, puts each connecting rod 90° from the next, with an uneven firing interval of 270°- 180°- 90°- 180°. The idea of this technology is to reduce internal crankshaft torque, thus giving the new R1 a more linear power delivery. Yamaha claims the bike would give the rider 'two engines in one', the low torque of a twin and the pace of an inline four. As with previous incarnations of the R1 the 2009 model keeps its YCC-T (Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle). The R1 is now rated at 182 PS @ 12,500rpm at the crankshaft (without ram-air).

Another advancement included on the 09 model is D-Mode Throttle Control Valve Mapping which allows a rider to choose between 3 distinct maps depending on the rider’s environment. Each mode of operation controls YCC-T characteristics changing how the R1 reacts to driver input. The first mode is Standard Mode, which delivers performance for a wide variety of driving conditions. The second mode is "A" mode which will give a rider more available power in the lower to middle RPM range. The 3rd mode is "B" mode, which is a dial back of the previous mode, designed to soften throttle response in inclement weather and heavy traffic. D-Mode throttle control is controlled via the rider through a forward mode button near the throttle.
Overall handling of the R1 was improved through several changes to frame and suspension. A new sub frame was designed for the 09 R1 which is magnesium cast in a carbon fiber mold. This new sub frame offers a superior strength to weight ratio, while helping keep mass closer to the center of gravity and subsequently gives the bike greater handling performance. The rear shock on the 09 offers variable speed damping as well as an easy to tweak preload via a screw adjustment. The rear shock now connects underneath the swing arm through different linkage; a change from previous years models. Front suspension takes its cues from the M1 as the left fork handles compression damping while the right controls the rebound duties. As an added bonus to overall handling and safety, this is the first year Yamaha developers included an electronic steering damper on a production R1.

The overall look of the R1 has changed drastically. In a side by side comparison between last year’s model and the 09; to the eye, the 09 looks much more compact and could be compared to the size of the R6r. The center up exhaust on the 09 seems significantly larger compared to previous years, due in some respects to changes in emissions controls. The front has the same classic R1 shape, though the air intake location and headlamp design have been revamped on the 09 model; utilizing only projector lamps and using the new found design space within the nose cone to reroute ram air tubes next the lights. Four color schemes have been released for the 09 Model: Blue/Black; Red/black; White/Red; Yellow/Black.