[visordown.com] - Video Yamahas onboard footage of the new R1

[Ninjette Newsbot]

YAMAHA has released onboard footage of the new 2015 R1 testing at the Sugo circuit in Japan.

As well as featuring a tasty soundtrack of the new 998cc four-cylinder crossplane engine, the hot lap video also demonstrates the superbike's Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), a six-axis gyro/computer at the heart of the R1's comprehensive new electronics package.

Highlights of the new system include banking-sensitive traction control and ABS, launch control, wheelie control, power modes and a quick-shifter.

The new version of the flagship sports bike makes a claimed 200hp and weighs 199kg wet, 18hp more and 7kg less than the current model. It gives the new R1 a power-to-weight ratio of more than 1hp/kg and one of the best available in any bike on the market.

A modified chassis features an asymetrical aluminium deltabox for compact dimensions and a short wheel-base. It's got a magnesium sub-frame, aluminium tank and cast magnesium wheels.

The fairing design is influenced by Yamaha's M1 MotoGP bike with a central ram air take, according to the firm.

Yamaha also unveiled a higher-spec limited edition version called the R1M, with Ohlins Electronic Racing Suspension, a data-logging system with integrated GPS, and the capability to upload new settings from a mobile phone or connect wirelessly to a tablet.

The new R1 will be available from March priced at £14,999.

The R1M will cost £18,499 but requires customers to fill out an online form on Yamaha’s website.

After filling it out, you'll get an email which you must print out and take to your nearest Yamaha dealer within 14 days 'to confirm your buying intention'.

Delivery of the R1M will take place between January and July 2015. R1M customers will also get to take part in an exclusive ‘Yamaha Racing Experience’, details of which have not been announced.

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