Motorcycle specifications YamahaYZF-R1 1000 2001 HYPERSPORT!

Let's not mince words. When it came out in 1998, the R1 shook up the world of sports bikes. Offering an unprecedented power-to-weight ratio, Yamaha's new big sportbike made its mark from the outset, sweeping aside the benchmarks and becoming THE sports machine. Even before you ride it, you're in the mood: taut lines, an aggressive look, reinforced swingarm and inverted forks - and a plastic look that's gone down in history.

Once in the saddle, it's a horror! No Japanese bike has ever been so radical. The saddle is as thick as a slice of ham, and overall comfort is... In fact, it wasn't part of the specification. The R1 has only one vocation: efficiency.

To achieve this, it combines a number of assets. First of all, it weighs in at just over 200 kg when fully loaded; but above all, it boasts an ultra-fiery and more than generous 4-cylinder engine. Overflowing with torque, it provides the R1 with lightning acceleration and smooth running. The latter would almost allow this sporty machine to cruise around town without batting an eyelid... But that's without taking into account the rider's uncompromising, velvety position. Slightly stretched out and totally tilted forward, the rider's wrists are quickly subjected to a painful workout. By comparison, a Kawa ZX-6R or 600 CBR offers limousine comfort. Quick, escape to a circuit. Forget the highway - the minimalist protection will quickly exterminate your cervicals already bruised by the urban ride.

on to the track. Here, the R1 is in its element; imperial, superb, puffed up with pride, the bike just wants to reveal itself. More delicate and demanding than a 900 CBR, the machine demands a lot from its rider. You have to be attentive, firm, move on the bike, and have a good technical background to get the most out of it. In return, the machine proves to be extremely maneuverable, precise and efficient. Tortured in the city but ideally positioned here, the experienced rider can make the most of the beast, imposing sharp angles and virile acceleration. Be careful, though, as the big torque can overwhelm you if you're too optimistic on the throttle as you exit a curve. The gearbox is precise, the suspension excellent and the braking a benchmark. The front drivetrain is extremely agile, but has a tendency to steer on uneven surfaces (steering damper highly recommended).

pleasure, sensations, efficiency, radicalism... the R1 delivers a hefty dose of adrenalin. As if that weren't enough, the finish is top-notch, the titanium pot is a real eye-catcher, and above all, the bike is simply magnificent.

M.B.
(internet and manufacturer photos)