Yamaha launched a race ready R6 that will be used in 2017 FIM Supersport World Championship, replacing the current model. Having won the FIM Supersport World Championship three times in the last seven years (2009: Cal Crutchlow / 2011:Chaz Davies / 2013: Sam Lowes), the YZFR6 has already proved it’s top of the line, but that hasn’t stopped Yamaha from taking it one step further with the new 2017 model.
This new middleweight Supersport bike that took the workd by storm during the Intermot is incredibly similar to their racing bikes for next season due to the championship’s regulations that only allow very subtle alterations made to the consumer bike’s cylinder head, gearbox, suspension, rear shock, front fork, electronic system and brake disks. However, the launch during Intermot is only on web based. This would be the first time Yamaha R6 2017 is shown to public at EICMA.
Since this new YZR-R6 is to re-enter the World SSP in 2017, Yamaha completely restyled the bike with radical look inspired by MotoGP M1 and World SBK models. Among other Supersports, the R6 is known for it’s light handling, agility and speed especially on track. Using some of the key elements from the YZF-R1, The enginners came out with new front cowl, windscreen and low drag front fairing that gives a significant improvement of 8% in aerodynamic efficiency. A new slimline magnesium rear subframe that’s gives a narrower front allow riders to tuck in closer to the tank for a better streamlined riding position.
In terms of electronics, the new YZF-R6 comes with an advanced traction control system (TCS) that is adjustable by a switch on the handlebars and a new quick shift system (QSS) for faster gear change.
As for the bike on display at EICMA, it comes with full race fairing (consisting of a two-piece front and single piece seat), an Akrapovic Evo full Titanium exhaust, dual Brembo T-drive front brakes (disc Ø 320 mm), single Brembo rear brake (disc Ø 220 mm), telescopic forks (Ø 43 mm) front suspension with Ohlins Cartridge kit, and threaded Pirelli Diablo tyres (front: 120/70 ZR17M/C, rear: 180/55 ZR17M/C) as per championship regulations.
