Niall Mackenzie reports back from the launch of the all-new 2009 Yamaha R1 at Eastern Creek, Australia
It seems like we've been waiting forever for the 2009 Yamaha R1. Everyone has been teased with pictures and sound tracks, we even got to touch it at the NEC but no one could have anticipated the riding experience Yamaha had in store.
Manufacturers are alway keen to tell us we are riding around on sports bikes full of technology developed from Moto GP. Sometimes its engine mapping on other occasions it may be chassis stiffness but we never really know if it has filtered down from a GP god and we certainly can't tell. I guaratee you this time its different. From the moment you hit the starter button a whole new world of sports bike riding begins experience unfolds.
It may look stocky but it must be the most agile superbike yet and that motor is just awesome. It is the 1198 Ducati and previous R1 rolled into one with strong linear torque coming off the turns and 13500rpm through the gears on the straights. The redesigend brakes offer more feel too. It now has an adjustable riding position should make it appeal to more riders. Believe me when I say have just entered a whole new phase of superbike riding!
