New Yamaha R1 unveiled at Eicma

THIS is Yamaha's 2015 R1, with more power, less weight and a sophisticated new electronics package. The new version of the flagship sports bike makes a claimed 200hp and weighs 199kg wet, 18hp more and 7kg less than the current model. It gives the new R1 a power-to-weight ratio of more than 1hp/kg and one of the best available in any bike on the market. It's got a new crossplane engine with titanium fracture-split conrods, a 10.5-litre airbox, two-directional fuel injectors and a titanium exhaust. Highlights of the new eletronics package include banking-sensitive traction control and ABS, launch and lift control, power modes and a quick-shifter. A modified chassis features an asymetrical aluminium deltabox for compact dimensions and a short wheel-base. It's got a magnesium sub-frame, aluminium tank and cast magnesium wheels. The fairing design is influenced by Yamaha's M1 MotoGP bike with a central ram air take, according to the firm. Yamaha also unveiled a...