EICMA: Yamaha turns the spotlight on revamped YZF-R1

Ahead of EICMA 2014 in Milan, the Japanese manufacturer has revealed several new models, including an enhanced version of its YZF-R1 supersport bike and a sport-touring version of the MT-09. The latest TMAX scooters also made their debut.

On the Yamaha stand in Milan, the main attractions will be the YZF-R1 and its high-end variant, the YZF-R1M, both incorporating technology from the brand's MotoGP bikes. Both of these supersport machines have a dry weight of just 199kg thanks to lightweight features such as magnesium wheels and an aluminum fuel tank, and both are powered by a brand-new 998cc inline four-cylinder engine with a crossplane crankshaft and 200hp. Among the advanced technology features on both models is a 6-axis position sensor, which continuously tracks and analyses the motion of the chassis to optimize control over traction, sliding, wheelies and braking.

At the same time, Yamaha has also unveiled the new MT-09 Tracer (or FJ-09 in the US), a sport-touring version of the MT-09 (known stateside as the FZ-09). Like the original MT-09, the Tracer features a liquid cooled 850cc inline three-cylinder engine with four valves per cylinder. The model offers multiple adjustments to the driving position, allowing it to accommodate riders of all body types. Yamaha also equipped the model with an aluminum chassis and ABS as a standard feature.

The new models are expected to arrive at European dealerships from March 2015. While the price of the new YZF-R1 and R1M were not announced, the MT-09 Tracer will be sold at a starting price of €9,500 in Europe (around $11,900).

A refreshed TMAX

In the TMAX range, Yamaha unveiled the 2015 iteration of the scooter along with a special version, the Iron Max. Rather than a major overhaul, the update to the standard TMAX takes the form of several tweaks. These include restyled front cowling with LED headlights, new upside down front forks for better stability, and an updated instrument panel with round, backlit analog speedometer and tachometer gauges. For more convenience, the 2015 TMAX also introduces a smart key system, allowing drivers to start the vehicle remotely.

The TMAX Iron Max differs from the standard model through several gold-colored accents, a special two-tone seat, aluminum footrests and a special instrument panel trim.

Both of these new scooters are due to go on sale in December 2014.

Video on the Yamaha YZF-R1: youtu.be/ZWod24WB3VE
Video on the Yamaha MT-09 Tracer: youtu.be/Edtge62Bo0E