The launch of any new 'R' model has always been a game changing moment for Yamaha and the R9 is no different. While this whole next generation of Supersport marks the beginning of a new chapter, the story remains the same with the R9’s identity born from Yamaha’s racing DNA. From race-developed technology to MotoGP design cues, the R9 is a product of Yamaha's racing at the very highest level.
A New Generation of Supersport
The R9 takes proven race-derived technology and combines it with the critically acclaimed, triple cylinder engine platform which has revolutionised the Yamaha brand over the last decade. The marriage of this famously high-torque powerplant and Yamaha's renowned race-precision handling creates a perfectly balanced Supersport model worthy of its status as the R Series flagship.
Retaining many of the MotoGP-inspired design features, which have become synonymous with Yamaha’s Supersport models, the R9 represents the progression expected from a new generation, while R1-level suspension and Brembo front brakes offer the level of precision, handling and agility Yamaha’s Supersport range is renowned for.
Features
890cc CP3 liquid-cooled 4-stroke, 3-cylinder engine
The R9 is powered by Yamaha's award winning 890cc CP3 liquid-cooled, three cylinder, DOHC, 4-valve-per-cylinder fuel injected engine. The bore and stroke of 78mm x 62mm and 11.5: Compression ratio provides both excellent torque and ample power, which when combined with the new control offered by the Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCCT), offers optimal performance on both the track and the road. The final ratio, ignition timing and fuel mapping are all optimised for Supersport performance.
Lightest aluminium Deltabox frame on a Yamaha Supersport model
Developed specifically for the R9, the gravity-cast aluminium Deltabox-style frame has had its rigidity tuned for sports performance at both low and high loads. The frame's standalone weight of 9.7kg makes it the lightest frame ever used for a Yamaha Supersport model. This light chassis means the overall weight of the R9 is just 195kg, resulting in the optimal power to weight ratio
Aggressive aerodynamic bodywork with downforce winglets
The R9 is one of the most aerodynamically efficient Yamaha motorcycles to date, this is achieved through a combination of the front fairing design developed through extensive wind tunnel testing. Downforce winglets just beneath the lights reduce front end lift and improve contact with the road. The winglets alone reduce front wheel lift by 6–7% in a straight line, and when this is combined with the front-end spoiler beneath the M-duct, this effect is increased to approximately 10% during cornering.
Brembo front master cylinder and Stylema calipers paired with 320mm brake discs
The R9 features race-derived Brembo Stylema monoblock calipers, which are light, rigid and designed to provide better control and stability under braking. The stainless steel mesh brake hoses and large 320mm front discs offer excellent consistency and a controllable feel, especially under heavy braking. The Brembo radial master cylinder features a piston which moves in a direction parallel to the brake lever, applying pressure in a linear manner as the rider pulls the lever resulting in a refined feeling of control.
New generation KYB fully adjustable suspension
The new 43mm KYB inverted front forks have been fully re-designed and now feature individual adjusters for rebound and compression damping on the left and right fork tubes. Each can be adjusted individually, with the right tube for rebound damping and the left for compression, both high-speed and low-speed. The rear shock is adjustable for preload, rebound damping, compression damping and ride height. The new layout contributes to highly precise damping, offering greater feedback from the track or road surface.
Yamaha Ride Control with Customisable Settings
Three integrated riding modes, 'Sport', 'Street', and 'Rain' featuring factory settings with different levels to suit various conditions are complemented by the option to pre-set two Custom modes, and four Track modes.
Lean Sensitive rider aids including Traction Control, Slide Control and Brake Control
Developed directly from the electronic systems on the R1, the R9's high-tech six-axis IMU constantly measures acceleration in the forward-backward, up-down and left-right directions – as well as the angular velocity in the machine's pitch, roll and yaw directions. The IMU is able to send data in real time to the ECU, which controls the suits of electronic rider aids, including the lean sensitive Traction Control (TC), Slide Control (SCS) and Brake Control (BC).
Power Modes, Launch Control and Lift Control
Four different Power delivery modes (PWR) are available to adjust the sportiness of the engine characteristics, while Lift Control (LIF) reduces and smoothens front wheel lift under acceleration. Race-style Launch Control (LC) enables the rider to launch from a standstill in the quickest and most efficient way possible – ideal for the race track.
Engine Brake Management and Back Slip Regulator
The level of engine braking can be altered with two EBM settings, with option one offering a higher level of engine brake and option two reducing the effect of engine brake as the rider comes off the throttle. When the rear wheel locks due to excessive engine braking, the Back Slip Regulator (BSR) system controls engine torque to offer support. This system shines in low-grip scenarios.
5" TFT display with full connectivity
The R9's full colour 5" TFT display can be customized between four selectable themes, while a track-mode displays information only relevant when riding on track including a lap timer. The display can be connected to a smartphone via Yamaha's MyRide app, allowing the display of phone calls, messages and other information on the dash.
Track-focused equipment including clip-on handlebars and third generation QSS
The R9 is equipped with track-focused equipment to enable the level of performance expected from a Yamaha Supersport model. Clip-on handlebars contribute to the sporty riding position, while the brake and clutch levers are adjustable to suit an individual rider's needs. Yamaha's third-generation Quick Shift System is fitted, allowing clutchless up and downshifts for even more efficient performance when changing gear. The lightweight cast aluminium wheels are shod with Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport RS11 tyres for ultimate contact and grip.
Log and analyse riding data with Y-TRAC
The Y-Trac app elevates the Supersport experience, enabling riders to improve their track riding and performance through tools usually only available to professional racers. Derived from racing, the Y-Trac app offers the possibility to log and analyse riding data with professional-level technology for all levels of riders, from novice to pro.
70th Anniversary Yamaha Racing Colours
Marking 70 years of Yamaha performance, the R9 wears its heritage proudly in a stunning white-and-red anniversary livery. Inspired by icons of the ‘90s, it’s a head-turning mix of nostalgia, attitude and absolute iconic Yamaha design – proof that legends never really go out of style.
