In the realm of supersport motorcycles, the Yamaha R6 has long reigned supreme. But with the recent introduction of the Yamaha R7, the question arises: which one should you choose? This comprehensive comparison of the Yamaha R6 vs R7 will delve into their engines, chassis, performance, electronics, ergonomics, design, and value to help you make an informed decision.
From the R6’s high-revving inline-four to the R7’s torquey parallel-twin, these two Yamahas offer distinct riding experiences. We’ll explore their handling characteristics, electronic rider aids, and comfort levels to determine which one suits your riding style and needs best.
Engine Specifications: Yamaha R6 Vs R7
The Yamaha R6 and R7 are two high-performance motorcycles with different engine specifications. The R6 has a 599cc inline-four engine, while the R7 has a 689cc inline-twin engine. The R6 produces 118 horsepower at 14,500 rpm and 61.7 lb-ft of torque at 10,500 rpm, while the R7 produces 73.4 horsepower at 8,750 rpm and 50.2 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm.
Bore and Stroke Dimensions
The bore and stroke dimensions of the R6 are 67.0mm x 42.5mm, while the bore and stroke dimensions of the R7 are 80.0mm x 68.6mm. The larger bore and stroke dimensions of the R7 contribute to its higher displacement and lower redline.
Compression Ratio
The compression ratio of the R6 is 13.1:1, while the compression ratio of the R7 is 11.5:1. The higher compression ratio of the R6 contributes to its higher power output, but it also makes it more sensitive to fuel quality.
Valve Configuration
Both the R6 and the R7 have a four-valve-per-cylinder head. However, the R6 uses a radial valve configuration, while the R7 uses a parallel valve configuration. The radial valve configuration of the R6 allows for a more compact combustion chamber, which contributes to its higher power output.
Torque and Horsepower Curves
The torque and horsepower curves of the R6 and the R7 are very different. The R6 has a much higher peak horsepower than the R7, but the R7 has a flatter torque curve, which gives it better low-end and mid-range performance.
Chassis and Suspension
The Yamaha R6 and R7 boast different chassis and suspension systems, tailored to their respective performance orientations.The R6 features a lightweight aluminum Deltabox frame, renowned for its rigidity and handling prowess. Its short wheelbase (55.3 inches) and steep rake angle (24.1 degrees) contribute to its agile and responsive nature.
The R7, on the other hand, utilizes a steel tubular frame with a longer wheelbase (58.3 inches) and a more relaxed rake angle (24.5 degrees), providing stability and comfort during everyday riding.
Front Suspension
The R6 employs fully adjustable 43mm inverted forks with a generous 4.7 inches of travel. These forks allow fine-tuning of compression, rebound, and preload settings to suit various riding conditions and rider preferences. The R7, in contrast, comes equipped with 41mm non-adjustable forks with 5.1 inches of travel, prioritizing comfort and ease of use over outright performance.
Rear Suspension, Yamaha r6 vs r7
Both the R6 and R7 feature a link-type rear suspension system, but with different shock absorbers. The R6’s fully adjustable KYB shock offers customizable compression, rebound, and preload settings, enabling riders to dial in the ideal rear-end feel. The R7’s non-adjustable shock absorber, while less versatile, provides a balanced and comfortable ride for a wider range of riding scenarios.
Braking Systems
The R6’s braking system is designed for high-performance riding, featuring dual 320mm front discs with radial-mount calipers and a single 220mm rear disc. This setup delivers exceptional stopping power and control. The R7, geared towards everyday use, employs 298mm front discs with dual-piston calipers and a 245mm rear disc, providing adequate braking performance for its intended purpose.
Performance and Handling
The Yamaha R6 and R7 offer distinct performance and handling characteristics that cater to different riding styles and preferences. Both bikes excel in their respective categories, delivering thrilling and engaging experiences on the road.The R6 is renowned for its blistering acceleration and high-speed capabilities.
Its potent inline-four engine propels it from 0 to 60 mph in under 3 seconds, and it can reach a top speed of over 160 mph. The R7, while not as fast as the R6, still provides ample power and acceleration for spirited riding.
It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 4 seconds and has a top speed of approximately 140 mph.In terms of braking, both bikes are equipped with high-performance braking systems. The R6 features dual 320mm front discs and a single 220mm rear disc, providing exceptional stopping power and control.
The R7 has slightly smaller 298mm front discs and a 245mm rear disc, but it still offers strong and reliable braking performance.When it comes to handling, the R6 excels in cornering ability and stability. Its compact chassis, stiff suspension, and aggressive riding position allow it to navigate corners with precision and confidence.
The R7, with its more upright riding position and slightly softer suspension, provides a more comfortable and forgiving ride, making it suitable for a wider range of riders.The influence of the engine, chassis, and suspension on overall performance is evident in the contrasting characteristics of the R6 and R7.
The R6’s high-revving engine and stiff suspension prioritize speed and precision, while the R7’s more balanced approach and softer suspension offer a more versatile and accessible riding experience.
Acceleration
The R6’s inline-four engine delivers impressive acceleration, reaching 60 mph in under 3 seconds. Its high-revving nature allows it to maintain strong acceleration throughout the rev range. The R7, with its crossplane engine, provides smoother and more linear acceleration, reaching 60 mph in around 4 seconds.
Top Speed
The R6’s aerodynamic design and powerful engine enable it to achieve a top speed of over 160 mph. The R7’s slightly lower top speed of approximately 140 mph is still sufficient for exhilarating riding experiences.
Braking
Both the R6 and R7 feature high-performance braking systems. The R6’s dual 320mm front discs provide exceptional stopping power, while the R7’s slightly smaller discs still offer strong and reliable braking.
Cornering Ability
The R6’s compact chassis and stiff suspension make it highly capable in corners. Its aggressive riding position allows riders to lean into corners with confidence, maintaining stability and control. The R7’s more upright riding position and softer suspension provide a more forgiving ride, making it suitable for a wider range of riding conditions.
Stability
The R6’s rigid chassis and suspension contribute to its exceptional stability, especially at high speeds. The R7’s slightly softer suspension provides a more comfortable ride, but it may compromise stability at higher speeds compared to the R6.
Feedback
The R6 provides excellent feedback through its chassis and suspension, allowing riders to feel connected to the bike and its performance. The R7’s softer suspension may slightly reduce feedback, but it still offers sufficient information for riders to make informed decisions.
Electronics and Features
The Yamaha R6 and R7 come equipped with a range of electronic rider aids and features to enhance the riding experience and safety. These include traction control, wheelie control, and various display and lighting systems.
Instrumentation and Display
Both the R6 and R7 feature a fully digital instrument cluster that provides comprehensive information to the rider. The R6 has a more advanced display with a larger screen and higher resolution. It includes a gear position indicator, lap timer, and a shift light.
The R7 has a smaller and simpler display but still provides essential information such as speed, RPM, and fuel level.
Lighting Systems
The R6 and R7 both have LED headlights and taillights. The R6 has a more aggressive and sporty headlight design, while the R7 has a more traditional and understated look. Both bikes also have daytime running lights (DRLs) for increased visibility.
Electronic Rider Aids
The R6 comes standard with a comprehensive suite of electronic rider aids, including traction control, wheelie control, and slide control. The R7 has a more limited set of electronic rider aids, with only traction control and wheelie control. Both bikes also have ABS as standard.
Traction Control
Traction control helps to prevent the rear wheel from spinning out of control by reducing engine power when necessary. The R6 has a more sophisticated traction control system with multiple settings, while the R7 has a simpler system with fewer settings.
Wheelie Control
Wheelie control helps to prevent the front wheel from lifting off the ground by reducing engine power when necessary. The R6 has a more sophisticated wheelie control system with multiple settings, while the R7 has a simpler system with fewer settings.
Ergonomics and Comfort
The riding position, seat height, and handlebar configuration play a significant role in the overall comfort and handling characteristics of a motorcycle. Let’s compare the Yamaha R6 and R7 in terms of ergonomics and comfort.
Riding Position
The R6 features a sporty, forward-leaning riding position with clip-on handlebars and rear-set footpegs. This position is designed for aggressive riding and track use, offering maximum control and feedback. In contrast, the R7 has a more upright and relaxed riding position with a wider handlebar and slightly forward-mounted footpegs.
This position is more suitable for everyday commuting and longer rides, providing greater comfort and reduced fatigue.
Seat Height
The seat height of the R6 is 33.5 inches, while the R7 has a seat height of 32.4 inches. This difference of 1.1 inches may not seem significant, but it can make a noticeable difference for riders of different heights.
Taller riders may prefer the higher seat height of the R6, while shorter riders may find the R7 more comfortable.
Handlebar Configuration
The R6’s clip-on handlebars are positioned below the top yoke, resulting in a low and aggressive riding position. This configuration is ideal for track use, as it allows the rider to tuck in behind the fairing and reduce wind resistance.
The R7’s wider handlebar is mounted above the top yoke, providing a more upright and comfortable riding position. This handlebar configuration is better suited for everyday riding and commuting, as it offers greater leverage and control at low speeds.
Comfort for Different Body Types and Riding Styles
The R6’s aggressive riding position is best suited for taller, more experienced riders who are comfortable with a forward-leaning position. Riders with shorter legs or those who prefer a more upright position may find the R7 more comfortable. For long-distance riding, the R7’s more upright riding position and wider handlebar provide greater comfort and reduce fatigue.
For track use, the R6’s aggressive riding position offers maximum control and feedback, making it the preferred choice for experienced riders.
Design and Aesthetics
The Yamaha R6 and R7 exhibit distinct design philosophies, reflecting their respective performance orientations. The R6 exudes a sleek and aggressive aura, while the R7 embraces a more accessible and versatile aesthetic.
The R6’s bodywork is sculpted to minimize drag and enhance aerodynamics. Its sharp lines and angular fairings create a striking and purposeful silhouette. The R7, on the other hand, features a more rounded and approachable design, with smooth curves and a wider stance.
Graphics and Color Schemes
Both models offer a range of eye-catching graphics and color schemes. The R6 is available in iconic Yamaha Racing Blue and a stealthy Matte Black, while the R7 comes in vibrant shades like Acid Yellow and Storm Fluo.
Aesthetic Appeal and Brand Identity
The R6’s design evokes the legacy of Yamaha’s racing heritage, appealing to riders seeking a track-focused machine. The R7’s more approachable aesthetic caters to a broader audience, including both experienced riders and those new to the sport.
Price and Value
The Yamaha R6 and R7 differ in their pricing and value proposition. The R6, being the more performance-oriented model, has a higher MSRP of around $12,199, while the R7 is priced more affordably at around $8,999.When considering the on-road price, including taxes, registration, and other fees, the R6 is estimated to cost around $13,500-$14,000, while the R7 is expected to be around $9,800-$10,500.In
terms of value, the R6 offers a higher level of performance with its more powerful engine, advanced suspension, and aggressive riding position. However, the R7 provides a more accessible and versatile package with its user-friendly handling, comfortable ergonomics, and lower price point.Ultimately,
the purchasing decision between the R6 and R7 depends on individual preferences and budget. Those seeking a dedicated track weapon or a highly capable sportbike for spirited riding will likely prefer the R6. On the other hand, riders who prioritize affordability, versatility, and ease of use may find the R7 to be a more suitable choice.
Closing Summary
Ultimately, the choice between the Yamaha R6 and R7 comes down to your individual preferences and riding style. If you crave a screaming engine, razor-sharp handling, and a track-focused machine, the R6 is your weapon of choice. However, if you prioritize torque, user-friendliness, and a more versatile ride, the R7 is an excellent option that offers a thrilling experience without the intimidating edge of its elder sibling.
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