Yamaha Adds Clutchless Downshifting Feature To 2018 YZF-R1 And YZF-R1M Models

Yamaha Adds Clutchless Downshifting Feature To 2018 YZF-R1 And YZF-R1M Models

© 2017, Roadracing World Publishing, Inc.

Yamaha’s 2018 Supersport Motorcycle Lineup Announced

R World Receives Updated YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M Superbikes

Cypress, CA – November 6, 2017 – Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A., today introduced their Supersport motorcycles for 2018, showcasing the company’s complete R World model lineup. Developed from a rich heritage of building the most sought after supersport motorcycles designed to deliver the pinnacle of performance on and off the track, the 2018 Yamaha Supersport lineup offers models for riders of all skill levels to experience the pure exhilaration of R World.

2018 YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M

Bred from Yamaha’s YZR-M1 MotoGP® racing heritage, the 2018 YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M continue to offer riders the ultimate exhilaration of maximum performance combined with the confidence of control.

Powered by a 998cc high-output crossplane-crankshaft engine tied to a full suite of inter-related electronics technologies, both the YZF-R1 and YZF-R1M receive clutchless “auto-blip” downshift technology for 2018. As part of the standard Quick Shift System (QSS), both the existing upshift feature and new downshift feature can be turned on or off to meet the rider’s preference through the Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) settings found in an updated thin-film transistor LCD meter.

Refinements to the Lift Control System (LIF) that detects the front to rear pitch rate, and utilizes the ECU to control engine power and reduce the front wheel lift during acceleration, contribute to easier operation. Updated Bridgestone RS10 tires that offer improved grip feedback and feeling also help to further inspire rider confidence across ever-changing road conditions.

In addition to these updates, the 2018 YZF-R1M receives revised Öhlins Electronic Racing Suspension (ERS), which can be fine-tuned through the “YRC Setting” smartphone or tablet app connected to the motorcycle’s Communication Control Unit (CCU).

2018 YZF-R1M Color, MSRP and Availability

  • Carbon Fiber/Liquid Metal
  • $22,999
  • March 2018

2018 YZF-R1 Colors, MSRP and Availability

  • Raven, Team Yamaha Blue
  • $16,699
  • March 2018

2018 YZF-R1S

The 2018 YZF-R1S offers much of the same technology and performance of the YZF-R1 for sportbike enthusiasts who want an aggressive, yet refined, street and track day motorcycle. With a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) integrated into an electronics package complete with rider aids, a crossplane crankshaft engine, fully adjustable suspension and modern styling, the YZF-R1S delivers exhilarating thrills for an attractive price.

2018 YZF-R1S Color, MSRP and Availability

  • Cerulean Silver/Raven
  • $14,999
  • March 2018

2018 YZF-R6

The YZF-R6 continues to be on the record as one of the most popular and winningest supersport motorcycles ever built, succeeding as the number one choice for today’s racers who are looking to progress quickly through the competition ranks.

Thanks to traction control that provides six levels of intervention or can be turned off completely, D-Mode for adjustable throttle response, YZF-R1 derived suspension, ABS brakes and an aluminum fuel tank, the 2018 YZF-R6 is poised to continue track dominance while remaining ever-popular with street riders around the world.

  • 2018 YZF -R6 Colors, MSRP and Availability
  • Matte Gray, Team Yamaha Blue, Intensity White/Matte Silver
  • $12,199
  • November 2017

2018 YZF-R3 and YZF-R3 ABS

Utilizing a 321cc twin-cylinder engine that delivers excellent power for navigating cross-town traffic, carving twisty roads or participating in a track day, the 2018 YZF-R3 and YZF-R3 ABS models feature Yamaha’s race-inspired R-series styling. While the ABS model adds confidence-boosting stopping performance, both models are perfect for first-time riders or experienced sportbike pilots who prefer a lightweight, nimble machine.

2018 YZF-R3 ABS Colors, MSRP and Availability

  • Raven, Vivid White
  • $5,299
  • February 2018

2018 YZF-R3 Colors, MSRP and Availability

  • Raven, Team Yamaha Blue
  • $4,999
  • February 2018

bLU cRU Road Racing Support for R World Riders

All of the 2018 Yamaha Supersport models will be eligible for the bLU cRU Road Racing support program. Racers who choose to register for bLU cRU receive benefits that include a road racing contingency program, discounts on GYTR and Graves performance parts and accessories, apparel and more. To find out more about the bLU cRU Road Racing support program, visit: https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/sport/pages/blu-cru-road-race-membership-benefits.

To find out more about Yamaha’s Supersport motorcycles, visit: https://www.yamahamotorsports.com/supersport.

A full range of Genuine Yamaha Accessories can be found at https://www.shopyamaha.com.

More information related to all Yamaha products can be found at https://www.yamahamotorsports.com.

About Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. (YMUS)

Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. (YMUS), is a recognized leader in the powersports industry. The company’s ever-expanding product offerings include Motorcycles and Scooters, ATVs and Side-By-Side Vehicles, Snowmobiles, Outboard Motors, Personal Watercraft, Boats, Outdoor Power Equipment, Golf Cars, Race Kart Engines, Unmanned Helicopters, Accessories, Apparel, and much more. YMUS products are sold through a nationwide network of dealers in the United States.

Headquartered in California since 1960, YMUS also has facilities in Wisconsin and Georgia, as well as factory operations in Tennessee and Georgia. For more information about Yamaha, visit www.YamahaMotorsports.com.

Latest Posts

KTM Says It’s Here To Stay, Despite Parent Company’s Woes (With Video)

RISING THROUGH ADVERSITY: KTM PLOTS A PATH TO THE...

Roadracing World Now Accepting Applications For Young Gun Awards 2025

We are now accepting nominations and applications for the...

MotoAmerica: Mission Mini Cup National Final Set For Road America

After a highly successful debut in 2024, MotoAmerica, North...

BMW Launches C 400 GT Mid-Size Scooter

The new 2025 BMW C 400 GT. BMW Motorrad USA...

MotoGP: KTM Likely Racing In 2025, But Can It Be Competitive?

First person/opinion: By Michael Gougis Back in 2009, Kawasaki decided to...