Yamaha’s all-new 189 bhp, US$11,600 YZF-R1 Supersport

The new forks also benefit from significant changes to their internals for 2007. The piston size is increased to 24mm from 20mm, and also new is a lightweight aluminium piston rod – while the pressure difference between stroke and non-stroke has been reduced.

As well as improving the basic hydraulic functions of the front forks, these improvements also minimise bubble formation in the fork oil, thereby ensuring more stable damping characteristics in all conditions.

Lightweight forged aluminium lower triple clamp

Another significant improvement to the chassis for 2007 is the adoption of a lighter and more rigid lower triple clamp. The forged aluminium design is all-new, and its thickness is increased to 40mm, compared to 25mm on the 2006 R1. As well as being lighter, the new triple clamp’s increased rigidity plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the new forks and frame deliver idealised chassis handling and cornering performance.

Highly efficient 6-pot front calipers with 310mm discs

Yamaha’s R1 has always been regarded as having one of the most effective front brake designs, and the 2007 model is equipped with one of the highest specification braking packages ever seen on a production motorcycle.

The diameter of the new R1’s dual front discs is reduced to 310mm for 2007 (2006 model is 320mm), although the effective braking diameter has been maintained. New radially-mounted 6-pot calipers grip the new smaller diameter discs, which are thinner at their outer perimeter in order to reduce the inertial moment for lighter handling feel.

This class-leading front braking system delivers remarkable stopping performance while at the same time enhancing handling qualities.

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