2018 Yamaha R1 was recently launched in India for INR 20,73,074 (ex-showroom). Yamaha R1 serves as the flagship model for India. They recently discontinued R1M and V-Max from the Indian market, both of which very highly expensive when compared to segment competition.
The 2018 model of YZF-R1 is available in Yamaha Blue and Tech Black shade and comes through CBU (Completely Built Up) route for the country. Yamaha R1 is powered by a 998cc, four cylinder cross-plane engine producing 200 HP at 13,500 rpm and 112.4 Nm at 11,500 rpm. The engine comes mated to a 6-speed gearbox.
Yamaha has updated the motorcycle with Quick-Shifter System (QSS) and Lift Control System (LCS) for easy super sport riding. As the model gets derived from track spec Yamaha YZR-M1, the presence of intense power can be felt at every slight twist of the throttle
Use of titanium connecting rods and aluminum pistons further improve the overall performance of its liter class engine. Magnesium is used for making the rear half of its frame, further making its presence felt through the lightweight magnesium wheels. Apart from these, a lightweight 4 into 2 into 1 exhaust system saves Yamaha R1 a lot of weight.
Surprisingly, most brands are pushing down their prices for bikes that come through the CBU or CKD route. Yamaha R1 has lost almost 4 lakh in pricing and same is true for almost majority of Kawasaki models. Honda has even introduced a much affordable Goldwing for 2018.
Yamaha R1 is a unique offering among rivals like Kawasaki ZX-10R, Honda CBR1000RR and Suzuki GSX-R1000. It weighs 200 kg and offers a usable 17 liter fuel tank. Seat height is on the higher side at 855mm. The front fascia is truly amazing with minimalistic headlight presence, a YZR M1 silhouette and golden forks.
