Yamaha YZF-R1

The R1 has sharp body lines and a front fairing that houses a bank of intake nostrils and aggressive, brilliant headlights that stay lit from the moment the engine roars to life. The R1 comes with skilfully sculpted levers — the brake is adjustable while the clutch has a handy cable adjuster.

The bike that has probably occurred in every rider’s dream at some point has finally come to India! Yes, the mean, built-for-speed Yamaha YZF-R1 is set to change what biking means to the Indian rider. The version coming to Indian shores is the latest 2008 R1. So needless to say, it comes with state-of-the-art technology including a chip-controlled throttle, variable intake manifold and slipper clutch. When the One was first introduced to the world it redefined style. It is quite light despite the fact that it looks super powerful — it’s sharp, compact profile is a thrill to behold. The bike we tested came in Yamaha’s trademark red-and-white scheme which was popular when the R1 made its debut. But, India gets only the choice of black and blue colour themes, though regardless of the colour, this bike looks gorgeous.

The Yamaha uses titanium inlet-valves, as also patented EXUP (a valve within the silencer that works to improve mid range power delivery) equipped exhaust canisters of the same material. Throttle is fly-by-wire and called YCC-T, short for Yamaha Chip Controlled-Throttle. The gearbox is a pleasure to use and very smooth, even when power-shifting without clutch use. We managed to push the R1 from rest to 200kph in 10.34 seconds, thereafter passing 250kph in 19.58 seconds before it ran out of breath thanks to the test bike arriving in our hands with an abused clutch. Top speed felt easily in the region of 285kph. A niggle Indians are certain to experience is the R1 transferring too much engine heat to the rider’s thighs when ridden at slow speeds.

Fuel economy


Heavy and uncomfortable in traffic, the R1 offers good ride quality in all situations, as well as impeccable handling and perfect cornering manners at the silly speeds it is built to perform at. Turn in is exact, with fantastic balance ensuring the bike feels safe, light, yet controlled even when pushed beyond 150kph. Pillions will find the R1 unfriendly, while hydraulic six-piston, radial mounted discs work in front to provide awesome braking. Fuel economy on this bike wasn’t too good, which comes as no surprise, for frugality just isn’t what this speedy bike is built for. Fuel economy as far as riding in the city stands at 15.1kpl and on the highway the R1 delivers 17.3kpl.