Yamaha R9

Yamaha hosted a private event for the US motorcycle press to unveil the new R9 and delve deeper into its features. As we’re aware, following the discontinuation of the R6, enthusiasts of Yamaha sportbikes have been eagerly awaiting a replacement that bridges the gap between the R6 and the R1. Contrary to popular belief, the R7 was not the answer. When it comes to naming models within a manufacturer’s lineup, there was a noticeable absence between the R7 and the R1. The obvious solution to this gap was even more apparent, given Yamaha’s own 890cc Triple, which has been in existence for years, yet has remained largely unrecognized due to its disguise under the MT-09 guise in various forms.

Yamaha maintains that the R9 is not intended to replace the R6, despite its track capability. The R9, however, strives to balance track performance with street-worthy features. While Yamaha’s stance is clear, it’s difficult not to see the R9 as a spiritual successor to the R6, or perhaps even a true replacement. Additionally, the R9 does not serve as a substitute for the R1. In some markets, the R1 is being phased out and relegated to track-only use, which is not the case for us, thankfully.

Yamaha R9 – Looks

What better place to begin than with its appearance? A single glance at the R9 and you’re greeted with unmistakable Yamaha styling. The nose, in particular, bears a striking resemblance to both the R6 and the R3, thanks to its LED light strips. At the heart of the design, what was once a ram-air intake on the R6 has been replaced by an R7-inspired headlight recessed into the cavity. Peering under the headlights, you’ll discover.

Winglets have become a must-have feature for sportbikes today, and the Yamaha R9 is no exception. Equipped with them, and yes, they serve a purpose. The fuel tank design is reminiscent of the R1, while the tail section, a new addition to the R9, draws inspiration from the R6. Yamaha further notes that the R9 is the most aerodynamic model it has ever introduced.

Ergonomically, the R9 strikes a perfect balance between the track-focused R1 and the more street-friendly R7. The clip-on bars are positioned below the triple tree, with minimal to no riser to elevate the bars. This design choice subtly hints at the sportiness of the R9 and the assertiveness of its riding position, especially when compared to some of today’s “next generation” sporty bikes, such as the Suzuki GSX-8R, Triumph’s Daytona 660, and Aprilia’s RS660.

In comparison to its Yamaha siblings, the R9’s ergonomic triangle positions the bars roughly in the same location as the R1. However, the pegs and seat are either lower and/or further forward. Additionally, it’s worth noting that the R9, similar to the MT-09, offers adjustable footpeg placement, allowing you to raise them by one notch if desired.

Yamaha R9 – Frame

It’s easy to mistakenly think that the R9 is merely an MT-09 with just the bodywork changed, but that’s a misconception. While the frame’s outward appearance may resemble that of the MT-09, it’s constructed using a gravity casting method to produce the lightest aluminum frame ever available on a Yamaha supersport model. Additionally, the R9 is tuned to accommodate various flex characteristics, setting it apart from the MT-09.

KYB offers a suspension on the R9, featuring a Separate Damping Fork (SDF) that not only provides full adjustability but also the capability to adjust both high- and low-speed compression damping. Additionally, the shock is fully adjustable and comes with a convenient external preload adjustment knob, ensuring easy access.

Yamaha R9 – Engine Specs

Typically, the engine ranks high on our list of discussion points, as it’s the heart of any motorcycle. However, in this instance, the 890cc Triple is essentially unchanged from the one we adore in the MT-09. The main difference, as Yamaha points out, is the dedicated fuel mapping in the R9. Although this doesn’t alter the engine itself, it does result in a slight adjustment to the rear sprocket, reducing it by two teeth from 45 to 43 for improved top-end speed. In practical terms, this means the engine now produces a slight increase in power, ticking just shy of 120 horsepower at the crank (106 hp at the wheel, which was the case with the MT-09’s R6 engine).

Additionally, the torque figures have significantly improved, reaching levels the R6 could only dream of, with approximately 63 lb-ft at the wheel, the last time we tested an MT-09 on the dyno. We’ve praised the streetability of the CP3 engine in our previous reviews of the MT-09 and its variants, and there’s no reason to think the R9 will disappoint in this regard either. Moreover, with its taller gearing, the R9 is expected to offer a slight improvement in track performance, which is great news as it means we’ll get to enjoy the distinctive sound of the inline-Triple engine.

Yamaha R9 – Electronic Aid

As the sibling of the R1, which was one of the first sportbikes to feature an IMU, it’s no surprise that the R9 boasts an extensive array of electronics, including an IMU and wheel speed sensors. Rider aids are also available, including a nine-mode Traction Control System (TCS), a three-mode Slide Control System (SCS), a three-mode Lift Control System (LIF), and a Brake Control System (BC). Riders have the flexibility to adjust the intervention levels of these systems, and each can be turned off for the ultimate connection between the rider and the machine.

In addition to the rider aids you also benefit from Autoblipper in both directions, ensuring seamless gear shifts, smartphone connectivity, and even cruise control! Navigating through the menus is a breeze with the joystick-centered switch grip on the left bar, and all information is clearly displayed on the 5-inch full-color TFT display, featuring different themes to match your preferences.

Yamaha R9 – Pricing

Perhaps the best aspect of the R9? Its ultra-attractive price tag. Priced at just $12,499, the R9 offers an extremely reasonable price, making it more affordable than competitors such as the Suzuki GSX-R750 ($13,149) and Triumph Street Triple 765 RS ($12,795), while still being less expensive than the Aprilia RS660 ($11,549) and the aging Honda CBR600RR ($12,199).

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