When Yamaha announced that the YZF-R6 would be removed from the upcoming supersport model year lineup, many speculated that a new Yamaha supersport was in the works. Let’s be real… without something in the middle, that would leave a pretty wide gap between Yamaha’s entry-level YZF-R3 and the workhorse that is the YZF-R1. Yamaha bridges the gap with the unveiling of the all-new 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7. The new middle child of the Yamaha supersport lineup is powered by a 689cc cross plane CP2 engine that makes it apt for both the street and the track. It also features an assist and sipper clutch, a first on a CP2 model. The liquid-cooled, four-stroke, inline two-cylinder, DOHC CP2 engine features forged aluminum pistons that cycle through direct plated cylinders that are integrated with the crankcase. This means overall lighter weight and great strength at higher temperatures.
Yamaha’s cross-plane engine’s 270-degree crank produces an uneven firing pattern to offer impressive torque, acceleration and response throughout the power band. The engine setup, housed in a lightweight and narrow steel frame, is complemented by an optimized secondary gear ratio.
Yamaha notes that the frame of the YZF-R7 gives exciting feedback thanks to its ultra-narrow and high-strength steel construction and the aluminum center braces mounted near the swingarm pivot. Combined with the optimized rake, trail, and wheelbase dimensions, riders can expect premium handling on the back roads of their hometown or the back straight of their local circuit.
Brembo components comprise the 2022 YZF-R7’s braking setup. Radially mounted 4 POT calipers stationed at the front end employ a pair of 298mm rotors, activated by a new radial brake master cylinder from Brembo that provides a more linear supply of hydraulic pressure.
The suspension set up of the 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 includes a 41mm KYB inverted adjustable (preload, rebound and compression damping force) front forks. The lower triple of the front end is made of forged aluminum while the upper triple is gravity-cast aluminum.
Oddly enough, the 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 looks like a middle child. It looks like the late model YZF-R6, but doesn’t. It echoes the YZF-R1 but not quite. But it’s easy to spot the family resemblance. At the front of the YZF-R7, the M-shaped intake duct houses an adaptive bi-functional LED headlight. The front and rear turn indicators, all LED.
In the saddle, the seat of the YZF-R7 borrows material and cushioning from the YZF-R1 collaborates with a low profile, deep knee pocketed fuel tank cover to offer the rider connectivity to the bike when it comes time to get down to the business. The position of the clip-on handlebars and footpegs are strategic to continue that rider connectivity.
Behind the handlebars, the Yamaha YZF-R7 features a full high-contrast, multi-function LCD dashboard. Switches at the handlebars allow the rider to toggle between data read-out selections.
The 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 will be available in Team Yamaha Blue and Performance Black beginning in June of 2021 with an MSRP of $8,999.00. Stay tuned for the SBI in-depth first ride review.
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