LB Article & Gallery:
HD Photo Galllery:
Article:
Taken from R1 forum
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 and check out the rest of this article.
The R1-forum.com / R6-forum.com / Tobefast.com got to spend some time with the all new R1 and the cross over development work that is directly related to the motoGP M1 is insane!
I’m going to briefly summarize some of the things that stood out to me and what they mean during my chance to get up close and personal with the new R1. I’ll also be putting up a few article based on the event itself over the next week so ENJOY!
-Shane
Sitting through the press intro and getting up close and personal with this new R1 was amazing to hear and get a feel for the passion and drive that put the all new R1 into effect.
The term “Ultimate Cornering” was mentioned throughout the presentation. Directly leading to this is a BIG list of technology.
Things like:
• Centralized Mass
• 3 position drive mode
• Compact “Crossplane Crankshaft” engine
• Magnesium subframe
• All new forks
• Adjustable Rearsets
• motoGP inspired
• Hydraulic Shock Preload Adjusters
ALL LEAD into a total revamped and ALL NEW package for the Yamaha R1 Enthusiasts!
Perhaps the single most stunning feature of the bike is the new engine. New from the ground up, this beast features a dual injector system that keeps the mikuni fuel injection system kicking. The “Crossplane Crankshaft” system is a model of engineering perfection! The crankshaft and placed in 4 different points around the crankshaft and there is a staggered firing order to compliment each. It’s important to know that this isn’t a big bang engine as its 4 firing points. What Yamaha tech’s found was that by doing thing you eliminate the SLOW points in the cranks turning. Smooth the flowing of the entire engine. This new engine is not only more efficient but it’s unbelievably linear. Each of the test pilots came back amazed and all agreed that it feels like 2 engines in one! I’ll get some sounds clips over the week it’s like no R1 I’ve ever heard. Power numbers are coming soon it’s reportedly up slightly and midrange increased.
This takes us to the 3 position drive mode. From the details I gathered this is an injector tuning setup that affects throttle and valves. Standard mode is optimum for the best for all around riding. A – mode promote better acceleration and midrange power characteristics. B – mode is the town traffic, in climate weather configuration setup. Your rear wheel feel on this bike is increased from this. Directly promoting earlier turn acceleration @ LEAN!
The adjustable rearsets are a Yamaha R1 first and a welcome change for racers! In the high position they will raise 15mm up and 3mm back.
The bodywork on the new R1 has been streamlined and is actually “layered.” The inner layer’s purpose is to pull heat out from the inside of the bike.
The suspension also gets a MAJOR dose of motoGP M1-NOVATIONS. The left fork is strictly for compression and the right rebound. Translating into less work by the oil to do its job. LESS oil cavitation! You can also get spot on preload adjusting from the back shock. FINALLY ease for trackside adjustments.
The all new frame was also M1 influenced and you’ll find 3 types of metals used to construct it! motoGP meets the REAL WORLD>
Enjoy the quick rundown pictures and info. There will be plenty more to come and up close and personal images throughout the day!
Attachments
