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

In order to achieve these goals our designers have made significant changes to the torsional and lateral rigidity balance of the new swingarm. Compared to the 2006 R1, the torsional rigidity of the new swingarm has been increased by 30%, while at the same time the lateral rigidity has been slightly reduced.

In addition to the revised rigidity balance, the pivot height has been raised by 3mm compared to the 2006 model, and this feature helps to minimise the ‘squat’ effect of acceleration-induced chain tension. And the design of the new swingarm also facilitates the use of the new exhaust system which passes to the right side of the upside-down truss assembly.

Improved rear suspension performance

The new swingarm operates a redesigned fully-adjustable rear shock which features important internal changes for 2007. In order to enhance traction, the 2007 rear shock runs with revised compression damping settings which offer a more progressive character. The progressive rate on the compression stroke has been increased to 14% for 2007 (compared to 8% on the 2006 model), and this stronger cushioning force enhances the new R1’s roadholding qualities.

For 2007 the compression damping adjuster is a 2-way mechanism featuring a layered valve which can be used to adjust low-speed and high-speed damping, allowing the rider to fine-tune the rear suspension to suit their own style and to match varying road or circuit conditions.

New-design high-performance front suspension

The 2007 R1 is equipped with all-new 43mm upside-down front forks which have been designed to work in harmony with the new Deltabox frame and new rear suspension system.

These new fully-adjustable front forks have a revised rigidity balance engineered-in to their structure in order to match the revised rigidity of the new frame. The wall thickness of the 43mm diameter inner tubes has been slightly reduced to optimise the front end rigidity, while the stiffness of the front wheel axle bracket is increased.

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