Published at February 23, 2024 by BikeJunction
Yamaha has announced that its legendary R1 range will be discontinued by 2025. The EU5+ laws' stricter emission criteria are the reason behind this decision. The Yamaha YZF-R1 and YZF-R1 M models, loved by generations of bike enthusiasts, will start production once the EU5+ mandate comes into effect.
Following a trend set by different producers, like Suzuki and Yamaha will, at this point, not offer litre-class bikes in its lineup. This strategic move showcases the organisation's commitment to adjusting to developing emission guidelines while exploring new business opportunities. Enthusiasts of the Yamaha R1 have until 2025 to purchase these famous bikes before they are no longer accessible.
Amidst this news, there is a glimmer of hope for enthusiasts. Speculation about a potential R9 model in development suggests that Yamaha is staying within high-performance motorcycles altogether. Similar to the fate of the R6, Yamaha may continue producing the R1 for track-use post-EU5+ standards.
These track-focused versions could feature enhanced performance attributes, including lighter weights and unrestricted exhaust systems, catering to enthusiasts seeking race-ready performance. The R1 may find a new niche in the racing community, given their popularity in prestigious racing series like WSBK and BSB.
The motorcycle market is witnessing a shift towards sub-litre-class bikes, driven by demands for agility and affordability. This transition makes the upcoming R9 crucial for Yamaha's flagship contributions, especially despite changing buyer preferences and administrative landscape.
The motorcycle features a 998cc 4-cylinder engine, delivering an impressive power of 194.3 bhp, a torque of 112.4 Nm and a 6-speed gearbox.
In India, the discontinuation of the R1 marks a shift in Yamaha's product strategy. However, the company's focus on smaller-capacity motorcycles and scooters has kept its interest in performance-oriented models. With the introduction of models like the YZF-R3 and MT-03, alongside plans for the R7 and MT-07, Yamaha aims to strike a balance between performance and accessibility in the Indian market.
Overall, while the future of Yamaha's litre-class bikes for road use remains uncertain, track enthusiasts can still anticipate exciting developments. As Yamaha navigates through regulatory challenges and evolving market dynamics, its strategic shifts reflect broader industry trends towards accessibility and high-performance motorcycles worldwide.
Before you go, don’t forget to check out the newly launched Kawasaki Z900 in India.
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