The Tuning Fork brand pulls the wraps off its latest addition to its supersport sportbike segment: Introducing the 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 ($8,999). The R7 replaces the R6 on paper, but not in spirit. The R6 was discontinued for the 2021 model year citing low sales volume due in part to its high cost ($12,199).
Editor’s note: The YZF-R6 remains available in Europe as a competition-spec model. Learn more in the 2021 Yamaha YZF-R6 Race First Look Preview. Also read and watch the 2019 Yamaha YZF-R6 Review MC Commute to see what the final specification R6 is like to ride.
The R7 revives Yamaha’s 1999 YZF-R7 (limited-edition 750cc superbike) nameplate. But instead of a screaming inline-four, this YZF is powered by the Japanese company’s tried-and-true CP2-generation 689cc liquid-cooled parallel twin.
Based around the current MT-07 naked bike (read about it in the 2021 Yamaha MT-07 First Look Preview), the ’22 R7 isn’t engineered for competition. Instead it’s designed for general street riding and occasional trackdays. However with the popularity of the middleweight twins class, especially in amateur roadracing, this platform will be popular among racers.
The powertrain benefits from an uneven firing order which affords a V-twin-like character. This twin is good for 67 hp and 46 pound-feet torque at the business end of the 180-series Bridgestone Battlax S22 rear tire (as measured on a ’21 MT). It also boasts a slipper clutch to mitigate rear wheel instability when downshifting in too low of a gear for vehicle speed.
Yamaha also offers a GYTR electronic quickshifter as an OE accessory. This allows for clutchless upshifts through the six-speed gearbox. Traction control and adjustable engine power/throttle maps are absent from this model.
The engine is bolted inside a reinforced steel frame (directly, without rubber mounts) that employs different geometry measurements versus the MT-07. Aluminum plates on either side of the swingarm pivot boost rigidity.
Suspension consists of a three-way-adjustable inverted KYB fork and a spring preload and rebound damping adjustable horizontally mounted link-type shock. Both ends offer just over 5 inches of wheel travel. Seat height has been lifted by over an inch, and the saddle is a thicker version of the R6. This elevates comfort for extended street rides.
Radial-mount front disc brakes keep speed in check with an oversize rear disc brake. The system is augmented with a radial-mount Brembo front brake master cylinder. Fixed, always-on ABS eliminates tire lockup if you squeeze either brake too aggressively for road conditions.
Styling-wise, the R7 benefits from Yamaha’s signature R styling package and a set of low-slung clip-ons. We like YZR-M1-esque fish gills above the 3.4-gallon fuel tank and its sleek bodywork that resembles the outgoing R6. LED lighting is another nice touch. A negative-lit (black background with white numbers) instrument panel keeps tabs on vehicle settings.
Stay tuned for review articles and videos from the official US press introduction in June.
2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 Technical Specifications and Price
| Price: | $8,999 |
|---|---|
| Engine: | 689cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled inline-twin; 4 valves/cyl. |
| Bore x Stroke: | 80.0 x 68.6mm |
| Compression Ratio: | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Delivery: | Fuel injection |
| Clutch: | Wet, multiplate slipper/assist |
| Transmission/Final Drive: | 6-speed/chain |
| Frame: | Steel trellis |
| Front Suspension: | 41mm inverted KYB fork, preload, compression, rebound adjustable; 5.1 in. travel |
| Rear Suspension: | Single shock, preload and rebound damping adjustable, 5.1 in. travel |
| Front Brakes: | 298mm discs w/ ABS |
| Rear Brake: | 245mm disc w/ ABS |
| Wheels, Front/Rear: | Cast aluminum |
| Tires, Front/Rear: | Bridgestone Battlax S22; 120/70-17 / 180/55-17 |
| Seat Height: | 32.9 in. |
| Fuel Capacity: | 3.4 gal. |
| Claimed Wet Weight: | 414 lb. |
| Warranty: | 1-year limited factory warranty |
| Available: | June 2021 |
| Contact: | yamahamotorsports.com |
Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com