[sportrider - features] - 2015 Yamaha YZF-R1M First Look

[Ninjette Newsbot]

In addition to the all-new R1 that Valentino Rossi wheeled onto the stage during Yamaha’s 2015 model unveil at the EICMA show in Milan, Italy, the Japanese manufacturer also introduced its limited-edition 2015 R1M. Much like the limited-edition R1 models of yesteryear, the 2015 R1M gets the Öhlins treatment and a long list of other upgrades aimed at increased on-track performance. The fun hardly ends at the fornt fork, however, as in addition to the Electronic Racing Suspension (ERS) you also get carbon fiber bodywork, higher-spec Bridgestone tires, and a Communication Control Unit (CCU).

The R1M’s Suspension Control Unit (SCU) makes adjustments to the Öhlins suspension based on the data it’s continually gathering from the bike’s six-axis IMU and various sensors. The goal, as is the case with the electronic suspension on BMW’s new S 1000 RR, is to provide added stability under braking and increased traction on corner exits through changes to the rebound and compression damping. The ERS has Automatic and Manual modes, and within each of these two modes there is a selection of three different base settings, which enables you to fine-tune the bike for different tracks or conditions. In the R1M, compression damping is handled by the left fork, while rebound damping is handled by the right fork. Seat height is 5mm taller than on the stock model.

The R1M gets carbon fiber bodywork and a polished aluminum tank. Interestingly, it weighs the same as the standard R1.





Yamaha claims that you can even adjust suspension with its Communication Control Unit, a user-friendly interface that allows you to communicate with the Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) through an Android app. The CCU also has a data logging function that enables you to record your data (lap times, speed, throttle position, GPS, lean angle, and more) and review it after your riding session, on a wireless tablet.

The R1M’s bodywork is made entirely of carbon fiber, while its fuel tank has a polished aluminum finish, not unlike the Panigale R Ducati debuted two years back. The paint is a metallic-looking silver with racing blue accents, whereas the wheels are blue and wrapped in special-compound Bridgestone tires in 200/55-ZR17 size at the rear and 120/70-ZR17 size at the front.

The R1M looks ready to go up against Ducati's 1199 Panigale R.





Applications for the limited-edition YZF-R1M can be submitted starting on December 1, 2014 and distributors will use their discretion when managing the allocation of R1M models. Yamaha has of course sweetened the pot by inviting each R1M owner to one of its Yamaha Racing Experience (YRE) events (of which there are four in July 2015, all across Europe). Here, R1M owners will have access to on-track training and technicians who can provide race set-up advice.

Related Articles:

* 2015 Yamaha R1 first look








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