2009 Yamaha R1
September 8, 2008
Today Yamaha unveiled their long awaited 2009 YZF-R1. I must say I am happy to see the under-tail exhaust and the turn signals not mounted to the mirrors (like so many manufacturers are doing nowadays). The new R1 features a ton of new technologies originally pioneered in MotoGP. New for 2009 is the D-MODE variable throttle control function, which manages the power and throttle response. The YZF-R1 will be available January 2009 in 4 different color options starting at $12,390.
*UPDATE: The 2009 YZF-R1 puts out 180bhp at 12,500rpm and 85lb/ft of torque at 10,000rpm.*
PRESS RELEASE
2009 Yamaha YZF-R1 Features Uneven Firing Order For Improved Power Delivery
Cypress, Calif. – Forget everything you ever knew about the supersport liter class. Because once you hear the growl of the all-new 2009 YZF-R1, it will become clear that this bike is unlike anything before.
It’s all about power – delivery of power, to be exact. That’s because the all-new R1 is the world’s first production motorcycle with a crossplane crankshaft. Originally pioneered in MotoGP racing with the M1, crossplane technology puts each crank pin 90 degrees from the next, with an uneven firing interval of 270-180-90-180 degrees. The result is incredibly smooth, roll-on power delivery with outrageous amounts of torque for a rush like you’ve never experienced before.
The unique shape of the crossplane crank smoothes out fluctuations in inertial crankshaft torque to provide very linear power delivery as the engine’s combustion torque builds, giving the rider more linear throttle response with awesome power and traction exiting corners. Not just new, the R1′s new crossplane crank engine represents a complete paradigm shift.
To make the crossplane crank viable an advanced ECU individually maps each cylinder’s ignition and fuel injection timing. This powerful electronics package also controls Yamaha Chip Control Intake and Chip Control Throttle (YCC-I, YCC-T).
Also new for 2009 is the inclusion of D-MODE variable throttle control function that enables the rider to adjust performance characteristics to match a variety of riding conditions. In addition to standard mode mapped for optimum performance, the rider can select from A mode for sportier response in low to mid-speed range, and B mode for somewhat less sharp response for riding situations that require especially sensitive throttle operation. These 3 different maps at the push of a button allow the rider to choose the optimum power character for their riding situation.
This revolutionary new engine is housed in an equally advanced chassis. Control filled die-cast frame rails balance high vertical rigidity with relatively low lateral rigidity for increased high speed stability while improving handling, especially while leaned over during corner exit. A control filled die-cast magnesium sub frame cuts weight far from the center of balance and contributes to concentration of mass.
Visually the new R1 breaks new ground leading with twin projector beam headlights concentrated near newly placed forced air intake ducts. The sculpted body work features inner and outer shells controlling airflow around the bike at high speeds and forcing more cool air to the radiator and engine bay while eliminating the need for hot-air vents usually located at the sides of the radiator.
More than the just the next-generation of supersport; the 2009 YZF-R1 represents a major breakthrough in supersport technology and performance.
The new R1 will be available in dealerships nationwide beginning in January 2009 with a starting MSRP of $12,390. The 2009 R1 will be available in Raven/Candy Red, Pearl White/Rapid Red, Cadmium Yellow/Raven and Team Yamaha Blue/White.
Full information on all Yamaha models can be found at http://www.yamaha-motor.com.
YAMAHA RIDERS UNVEIL NEW R1 IN LAS VEGAS
All four Yamaha MotoGP riders took part in the global unveiling of the all-new Yamaha R1 today in a suitably glittering show in Las Vegas, Nevada. Fiat Yamaha Team riders Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo, plus Tech 3 Yamaha team-mates Colin Edwards and James Toseland were surprise guests at the unveiling, which took place in front of 3000 Yamaha US dealers at the famous Mirage Hotel.
The all-new version of the R1, Yamaha’s premium performance road bike, is more closely linked than ever to the YZR-M1 on which the four riders contest the MotoGP championship. The riders each came on stage aboard a different colour version of the machine, before being interviewed about it’s qualities in relation to their own MotoGP bikes.
Next stop for the foursome will be the historic Indianapolis Motor Speedway for the inaugural MotoGP race at the famous venue, which takes place this Sunday.
Valentino Rossi
“This is a great bike, it’s very like my M1 and it’s exciting to see so many MotoGP qualities now appearing on a bike for the road. I think everyone who loves the R1 and Yamaha will be very excited about this new version, it’s fantastic!”
Jorge Lorenzo
“I think this bike will be very popular. Yamaha have worked very hard to try to make it as like our M1 as possible and it seems they have done a fantastic job. The cornering and agility especially is great, which is of course one of the best qualities of the M1.”
September 8th, 2008 | Adam Gunderson | 
8 Responses to “2009 Yamaha R1”
RI scharm 1…. Its all about the zx10r and CBR1000rr for 2009. As far as us regular riders go the CBR1000rr blows all these bikes out of the water on the street and Adam knows I used to HATE hondas mediocre machines in the past. 2009 CBR1000rr for president!
I think I need to make a post about the 2009 CBR with the repsol colors
I agree with Andrew/Adam. CBR1000RR is where it’s at. I know looks are 110% subjective, but it the best looking IMO. As mentioned before, very mediocre perfomance in the past, in 08 it dominated everything b/c of its featherweight. I can’t wait for the dealership to get an 09 in white, I’ll be there with pen in hand ready to sign on the line.
The only thing I can think of that might dethrone the CBR is the new Gixxer 1000, b/c its due for a revision. Although, it’s dual exhausts look absolutely rediculous. Although, that is the looks department, not performance driven. Plus it has similar ergos to the CBR
And finally, the R1 regardless of performance (which the numbers don’t look to bo up too much) looks terrible. Looks like someone pissed off a bee or something. The undertails at the back are far from flattering too. I think it’s too wide with the heat sheilds to a point where it nearly looks like a B-king, not a Duc.
“2009 CBR1000RR for Prez!!”, Agreed.
I just rode 200 miles with the girlfriend on the back. Oh man was my ass sore! I am ready for the super sport / touring zx-14!
The ZX14 is not a super sport its a Hyper Sport! Jeez get it right! PS the 2009 gixxer liter bikes sucks balls ftw!
Adam make a post about the ’09 1000rr otherwise I will. Please dont use the repsol colours tho for the love of god!
The 09 R1 blew the CBR1000rr out of the water in terms of low end grunt, and top end power….lol. but alright guys, get off Hondas dick, Yamaha is were it’s at.
2009 R1 SUCKS WHAT A SLOW BIKE