Built off of a revised platform from their punchy and much-loved MT-07 platform, Yamaha has just introduced the world to their reincarnated R7, a middle-weight twin with a supersport look.
The YZF-R7 is more than just a fairing package for that MT-07 though. Yamaha has made some key tweaks for better frame rigidity and revised the geometry for faster handling. The R7 also benefits from an upgrade at the suspenders as well. Fully adjustable 41mm, upside-down forks appear up front, courtesy of KYB, and they’ve also provided an adjustable (preload and rebound) shock in the rear.
Powering the R7 is the same torquey and tractable 689cc parallel twin that wheelie aficionados love so much about the MT-07 (and XSR 700 as well). As such, output remains at 75 horsepower with 49 lb-ft of twist on tap. However Yamaha did include forged aluminum pistons with direct-plated cylinders to help increase reliability.
Braking is tackled by radial-mount Brembo calipers scrubbing speed from 298mm twin discs. A Brembo master-cylinder is also standard equipment.
The R7 also gains a slip-assist clutch and an up/down quickshifter can be optioned too. With a curb weight for the YZF-R7 being pegged at 188kgs, it should make for a formidable track-day weapon.
Sure, the R7’s redline and power output won’t really impress R6 riders of yore but the buying public has spoken and the halcyon days of 600cc supersports have sailed. With Aprilia having already woken the world to the wicked-fun realities a middleweight twin can offer, it’s nice to see Yamaha stepping in to offer a more affordable option. The YZF-R7 will retail for $10,799.
2022 Yamaha YZF R7
2022 Yamaha YZF R7
2022 Yamaha YZF R7
2022 Yamaha YZF R7
2022 Yamaha YZF R7