After carefull analysis of the 2009 R1, my mind seem to be set on getting one. My only reservation is the hideous exhaust that ruins the view from the rear. After hearing the sound of the cross plain engine on youtube, my heart was won over. But only so because l have the sneaky plan to replace the standard pipes with Akro pipes upon delivery. Well, Akropovic has recently published their exhaust line for 2009 and there is one for the 2009 R1. http://www.akrapovic.com/motorcycle-exhaust/products/yamaha/model/yzf-r1-2009/racing-94/The Full sport system (without muffler inserts) is claimed to give the power a hike of 7.8 HP @5900 rpm. But mind you this (Evolution) system is not road legal but aimed at racers.
For road use, Akropovic now offer their product in three configuration, namely:-
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End can only (Slip on)
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End can + Link Pipe
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Full System
End Can Only
Changing the end can is claimed to give a power hike of 2.4 HP @12480 rpm. (Note without mufflers). It would seem the power gain is at the top end where road usage is unlikely to benefit from. But it would pay dividend on the occasional track days :w00t:
End Can + Link Pipe
The combined end can and link pipe is claimed to give a power hike of 5.1 HP @ 6000rpm. The power gain for this combination appears to be more accessible for road usage (not that you would need it).
Observations
It is not clear whether the end can will fit on a standard link pipe. Akropovic have not published any recommended prices for these items either. Something else that may be of interest that is not provided is the loudness of the can in decibels. This is important because what may be road legal in one country may not in another.
Comparing the picture of the Akropovic on the R1 to that of the standard exhaust, one thing becomes obvious; The Akro end can is longer than the standard can. This has the effect of narrowing the visibility angle of the brake lights. In other words, the brake light can only be seen clearly from directly behind the bike. The standard can which is shorter allows a wider angle of visibility of the brake lights. This is an important safety feature.
Besides these little niggly bibs and bobs, the Akro looks wicked on the R1.