2017 Yamaha R6 Revealed

After a series of teaser videos released by Yamaha, the wraps have finally been taken off the 2017 edition R6. The motorcycle made its debut at the ongoing AIMExpo (American International Motorcycle Expo) held in Orlando, Florida. Following the footsteps of the recently updated R1, the new Yamaha R6 borrows a similar design mantra. Under the fresh design, the new R6 has been almost completely revamped. 

Starting with the looks, the bike incorporates a similar front fascia design as the YZF-R1. The headlamps now feature an LED setup with integrated turn signals, while the air intake reminds of the YZR-M1 MotoGP bike. Yamaha claims that with the new fairing design, the 2017 edition R6 is more aerodynamic; thanks to the drag coefficient being reduced by 8 per cent. The company also stated that the fuel tank has been made from new, ‘lightweight’ aluminium while the recess for the knee is now deeper, allowing the rider to grip the bike better. At the rear, the tail section of the new R6 is almost identical to the current R1.

The biggest change is under the skin of the 2017 edition. Yamaha has left the chassis and engine configuration untouched in the R6. However, almost everything else on the motorcycle has been changed. To give you an idea, the list consists of revised suspension package, ABS brakes, riding modes, ride-by-wire, traction control and an optional quick shifter. 

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The new Yamaha R6 makes use of 43mm KYB USDs forks that are fully adjustable. The setup has been carry forwarded from the YZF-R1 but tweaked to suit the R6. The most notable addition to the new Yamaha R6 is the new traction control system. The company has stated that the new system is capable of taking into account changing tyre diameters to ensure optimum traction. There are six levels of settings with the option of switching it off. 

The throttle input is now controlled by the ride-by-wire system that comes with three riding modes to change the throttle response and engine maps as required.  Braking duties are now upgraded to radially mounted Nissin calipers and Nissin radial master cylinder to help to reduce braking distance. As an optional extra, the 2017 edition of the R6 can be fitted with a quick shifter which can be used for clutch-less gear shifts.