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1998 to 1999 – The First Yamaha R1/YZF-R1
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1998 Yamaha R1/YZF-R1
“The ultimate cornering Master (Yamaha R1/YZF-R1)” – Yamaha
1998 Yamaha R1/YZF-R1
1998 Yamaha R1/YZF-R1
1998 Yamaha R1/YZF-R1
1998 First generation: 150 HP, 177 kg
The first R1 shook the motorcycle world by putting the 1000cc class supersports back on the map. Japanese competitors had launched 900cc models in the ‘90s aiming for the best compromise in power and in weight. Yamaha decided for a ‘no-compromise’ approach. The development team were given 3 clear targets: to make the highest power, the lowest weight and the most compact dimensions.
What Yamaha’s engineers created was a new 998cc engine featuring a 5-valve design, big-bore 40mm downdraft carburettors and 4 into 1 exhaust featuring Yamaha’s EXUP system for improved midrange (which the first generation R1 was famous for).
The compression ratio was 11.8 to 1 with a bore and stroke of 74 x 58 mm. The cylinder and crankcase were designed in 1 piece which was lighter and stronger than the conventional ‘bolted’ designs. The complete engine was designed to be a stressed member in the latest generation aluminium Deltabox frame.
The engine featured a revolutionary new tri-axis design where the crankshaft, drive shaft and main shaft are not arranged in a horizontal line (as normal) but in a triangular layout so that the overall engine build could be much shorter.
This more compact engine design enabled a layout with a very short wheelbase (1395mm) for excellent handling, combined with a very long swingarm which is beneficial for traction and stability. This layout structure is still up to date today, and many competitors have followed this development.
1998 Yamaha R1/YZF-R1
1999 Yamaha R1/YZF-R1
1999 Yamaha R1/YZF-R1
In 1999 the R1 received new colouring and graphics to remain current and up-to-date.
1998 Yamaha R1/YZF-R1 Specifications
Engine
Engine type Liquid-cooled, forward inclined parallel 4-cylinder, DOHC, 5-valve per cylinder
Displacement 998 cc
Bore x stroke 74.0 x 58.0 mm
Compression ratio 11.8 : 1
Maximum power 110.3 kW (150 HP) @ 10,000 rpm
Maximum torque 108.3 Nm (11.0 kg-m) @ 8,500 rpm
Lubrication system Wet sump
Fuel System BDSR40 with TPS system
Clutch type Wet, multiple disc
Starter system Electric
Transmission system 6 speed
Primary reduction ratio 1.581
Secundary reduction ratio 2.688
Final transmission Chain
Ratios gearbox 1st 2.500
Ratios gearbox 2nd 1.842
Ratios gearbox 3rd 1.500
Ratios gearbox 4th 1.333
Ratios gearbox 5th 1.200
Ratios gearbox 6th 1.115
Chassis
Chassis Aluminium Deltabox II
Front suspension system Telescopic fork, upside- down, Ø 41
Front wheel travel 135 mm
Rear suspension system Truss-type aluminium swinging arm Monocross system
Rear wheel travel 130 mm
Caster angle 24°
Trail 92 mm
Front brake Double-disc, Ø 298 mm
Rear brake Single disc, Ø 245 mm
Front tyre 120/70 ZR17
Rear tyre 190/50 ZR17
Front rim 17″ x MT3,50
Rear rim 17″ x MT6,00
Dimensions
Overall length 2,035 mm
Overall width 695 mm
Overall height 1,095 mm
Seat height 815 mm
Wheelbase 1,395 mm
Minimum ground clearance 140 mm
Dry weight 175 kg
Fuel tank capacity (reserve) 18 L
Specifications and appearance of Yamaha products shown here are subject to change without notice and may vary according to requirements and conditions. For further details please consult your Yamaha dealer.