AS predicted by Visordown, Yamaha has just revealed a new YZF-R6, with R1-alike styling and a full bag of electronic tricks
The 2017 R6 has switchable traction control with six levels of intervention, a quick-shifter for seamless upshifts and a slipper clutch to reduce back-torque on downshifts.
It’s got a new slimline magnesium subframe according to Yamaha, which is 20mm narrower at the front than the current model’s, allowing the rider to ‘tuck in more closely to the tank for improved aerodynamics’.
It also benefits from a new ‘lightweight’ aluminium tank, with ‘deep knee recesses that enable the rider to grip the bike’.
The front cowl and windscreen are new, and claimed to offer more efficient aerodynamics than any previous iteration of the machine.
LED indicators (or ‘flashers’, as Yamaha curiously words them in the press release) are incorporated into the mirrors to keep drag low.
It’s got new recessed LED twin-headlights, giving it that distinctive Admiral-Ackbar-from-Star-Wars-look of the R1, which seems to divide opinion.
New KYB adjustable upside-down forks have grown from 41mm to 43mm while an ‘R1-type’ radial front brake is ‘one of the most advanced systems fitted to any production Yamaha,’ the firm says.
It consists of twin 320mm discs and four-pot aluminium calipers.
Yamaha says the quick-shifter is similar to the R1’s, cancelling torque momentarily when an upshift is detected, for a smooth change.
The aluminium frame and swing-arm gain little mention in Yamaha’s just-released press material, which probably means they are unchanged.
Power and torque figures have yet to be released, as has price.
The new R6 comes in blue or black and was revealed today at the AIMExpo show in Florida.
Check out loads more pictures below, as well as the key features, technical highlights and specs straight from Yamaha:
New YZF-R6 Key Features
Next generation R-series design
Iconic YZF-R1 inspired face
Pure race-bred DNA for class-leading style and performance
Best ever YZF-R6 aerodynamics
Sophisticated electronic control technology
6 level TCS to suit changing riding conditions
QSS for faster full throttle clutchless upshifts
43mm YZF-R1 type front forks with YZF-R6 specific settings
320mm diameter YZF-R1 type front brakes with radial 4-pot calipers
Slimline magnesium rear sub frame
New angled seat
Lightweight aluminium fuel tank
Enhanced riding position
ABS
EU4 compliant
D-Mode
YZF-R6 Technical Highlights
599cc, 67mm x 42.5mm, liquid-cooled, 4-valve, DOHC, 4-stroke, 4-cylinder
Forged aluminum pistons, 13.1:1 compression ratio
Titanium intake/exhaust valves
Air Induction System and Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake (YCC-I)
Twin-injector Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T)
Slipper clutch
Close-ratio 6-speed transmission
Magnesium head and case covers
EXUP valves contributing to excellent torque characteristics
Titanium exhaust silencer
Aluminum frame and swingarm
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATION
ENGINE
Type: liquid-cooled, DOHC, 4-stroke, forward-inclined parallel 4-cylinder, 4-valves
Displacement: 599 cc
Bore x stroke: 67.0 × 42.5 mm
Compression ratio: 13.1 : 1
Maximum power: N/A
Maximum torque: N/A
CHASSIS
Frame: Aluminium Deltabox
Front suspension system: Telescopic forks, Ø 43 mm
Front travel: 120 mm
Rear Travel: 120 mm
Front brake: Hydraulic dual disc, Ø 320 mm
Rear brake: Hydraulic single disc, Ø 220 mm
Front tyre: 120/70 ZR17M/C (58W) Tubeless
Rear tyre: 180/55 ZR17M/C (73W) Tubeless
DIMENSIONS
Overall length: 2,040 mm
Overall width: 695 mm
Overall height: 1,150 mm
Seat height: 850 mm
Wheelbase: 1,375 mm
Min. ground clearance: 130 mm
Wet weight (including full oil and fuel tank): 190 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.0 litres
Oil capacity: 3.40 liters
