Competition is heating up in the supersport segment
The supersport segment, which was on a steady decline a few years ago, is beginning to flourish again thanks to the arrival of new and exciting models from major manufacturers. Here is the latest contender to step into the ring: Yamaha’s all-new YZF-R7.
Well, “all-new” might not be the most fitting term here due to the fact that the R7’s main parts and components are sourced from the MT-07. These include the CP2 (crossplane 2-cylinder) engine and chassis.
With a displacement of 689 cc, the four-stroke DOHC mill churns out 73.4 PS at 8,750 rpm and 67 Nm of torque at 6,500 rpm. Forged aluminium pistons with direct-plated cylinders make for lighter weight and excellent strength at higher temperatures.
Additionally, the crossplane engine’s 270-degree crank provides an uneven firing sequence with a more characterful exhaust note, while the secondary gear ratio has been optimised for improved acceleration. The R7 comes standard with Assist and Slipper clutch, while Quickshifter is available at additional cost.
The frame structure itself is the same as the MT-07’s, but Yamaha has completely reworked the rake, trail, and wheelbase dimensions for even more agile handling. It is mated to an inverted 41mm front fork with optimized spring rate and damping settings, and a linked-type Monocross single rear shock with adjustable spring preload and rebound damping.
As for braking, the R7 is equipped with a new radial brake master cylinder from Brembo that provides a more linear supply of hydraulic pressure to the radial mounted four-pot front brake calipers that clamp the dual 298 mm rotors.
Elsewhere, there’s an adaptive bi-functional LED headlight, a new LED taillight, as well as a new full LCD instrument panel with a high-contrast negative display for the clock, gear, trip meters and tachometer.
Available in Team Yamaha Blue and Performance Black, the 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 is set to arrive in the US in June 2021 with a price of $8,999 (RM37,264). Its main rivals include the Honda CBR600RR and Aprilia RS660, both of which have been launched in Malaysia this year.
