Yamaha launched the updated 2018 YZF-R1 in India recently. The manufacturer’s flagship supersport bike competes with the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R, Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade and the BMW S1000RR. We check out how the YZF-R1 fares against the competition-
Design and Electronics
While all the bikes sport a sharp design language to support their form and function, some cosmetic features are unique to each bike. The Yamaha YZF-R1 gets the twin projector headlamp setup while the BMW S1000RR sports an asymmetrical fairing and headlamp unit. The Kawasaki ZX-10R and the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade have inherited their predecessor’s design with some added elements for an edgy look and improved airflow.
With improvement in research and technology, the bikes sport an extensive list of features in their electronic packages. The new Yamaha YZF-R1 gets an updated Quick Shift System (QSS) that now allows clutch less downshifting. It is also equipped with an updated Lift Control System (LIF). Apart from this, the bike also boasts of slide control, launch control, anti-wheelie control, unified braking system, banking sensitive traction control and ABS along with a 6-axis IMU.
The BMW S1000RR gets DTC (Dynamic Traction Control), ASC (Automatic Stability Control) and three riding modes - Rain, Sport and Race - as standard. You could also get a ‘Race’ and ‘Dynamic’ package for an additional Rs 2.5 lakhs. The dynamic pack has Gear Shift Assist Pro, Dynamic Damping Control (DDC), heated grips and white LED turn indicators. The race package has the Riding Modes Pro, cruise control and the advanced form of ABS under the name – ABS Pro.
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R is loaded with launch control, quick shifter, Kawasaki Engine Brake Control and the Kawasaki Traction Control system and three riding modes along with ABS. All the electronics are managed by the bike’s six-axis IMU.
The Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade’s electronic package includes a nine-level adjustable traction control, a Bosch ABS system, rear lift control and wheelie control, with the feedback coming from a five-axis IMU. It also gets three riding modes – Track, Winding and Street.
Engine
The YZF-R1 uses a 998cc cross plane four-cylinder engine that produces 197.2bhp at 13,500rpm and maximum torque of 112.4Nm at 11,5000rpm. This motor is mated to a six-speed gearbox with quickshifter.
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R sports a 998cc inline-four liquid-cooled engine that produces 197bhp at 13,000 rpm and 113.50 Nm at 11,500 rpm. This unit is mated to a six-speed transmission with a quickshifter.
The 999cc inline-four cylinder engine in the BMW S1000RR puts out 196bhp at 13500rpm and peak torque of 113Nm at 10500rpm. It transfers power to the rear wheel via a six-speed gearbox.
The Honda CBR100RR 999cc inline-four engine develops the least amount of power at 178bhp but boasts of the highest torque figure of 114Nm. It is mated to a six-speed transmission with slipper clutch.
Pricing
In terms of pricing, the Yamaha YZF-R1 is the most expensive bike priced at Rs 20.73 lakhs. The BMW S1000RR comes in second with a price tag of Rs 19.20 lakhs followed by the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade at Rs 18.79 lakhs and Rs 18.48 lakhs respectively. All prices ex-showroom Delhi.
