1998

Yamaha launched the YZF-R1 after redesigning the Genesis engine to offset the crankshaft, gearbox input and output shafts and this "compacting" of the engine yielded a huge dividend in that the total engine length was now very short. This allowed the wheelbase to be shortened significantly which resulted in much quicker handling and an optimized center of gravity. motorcycle fairings
The launch model Yamaha YZF-R1 was available in white/red or blue. In Europe the blue proved to be the most popular and was in very short supply, added to by early models being subject to a worldwide recall for a clutch problem. This bike has a compression ratio of 11.8:1. with a 6-speed with a multi-plate clutch transmission. Yamaha today describe the launch R1 as the true value of "Kando".Yamaha YZF-R1 Fairings