Yamaha R7 beginner track report

"Finally on the racetrack for the first time!" I thought to myself as I drove to the Pannoniaring. A Yamaha R7, ready to ride, was waiting for me there, gleaming with its newly installed and shiny Conti Race Attack 2 Street tires. A perfect blend of track and street tires that confidently supported me throughout both days, providing maximum grip once warmed up, despite the chilly temperatures ranging from 6-12°C.

At first glance, the Yamaha R7 may not appear to be a typical supersport bike on paper, due to its CP2 engine producing "only" 73.4 hp and not being renowned for its track performance. However, thanks to the 2-cylinder configuration and gearing, it delivers explosive torque at low and mid-range revs, proving to be incredibly advantageous. This means that you won't be penalized for delayed gear shifts coming out of corners, allowing you to effortlessly pass beginners on the more demanding and aggressively roaring 4-cylinder machines.

While it may not be the standard, it was certainly a pleasant surprise to not be penalized for delayed gear shifts to the extent where you feel compelled to call it a day, even after numerous relaxed turns that had taken a toll on my body. This enabled me to squeeze in a few extra laps and enjoy even more, ultimately capturing the essence of what riding is all about.

The Yamaha R7's fully adjustable suspension performed excellently for me, even without adjusting it to my weight of 55 kilograms. Both the front fork and the rear shock absorber did a commendable job, only showing slight instability when pushed to the limit or when throttle control was not precise during cornering. It is possible that a rider slightly heavier than me may experience some disruption in the shock absorber when accelerating out of corners. However, I did not encounter this issue during my test ride.

The Yamaha R7's lightweight of 188kg when ready to ride makes it a joy to ride on the racetrack, instilling confidence right from the start. Its agility, user-friendliness, and the familiarity of the CP2 engine make it easy to handle, even at lower speeds. Unlike many other motorcycles, the R7 lacks riding modes, traction control levels, and other electronic settings, but I found that I didn't miss these features at all. The finely adjustable throttle response of the R7 eliminates the need for traction control, as the bike handles beautifully without it. With the R7, there is no need for riding modes either, as the throttle response is smooth and easily controlled without being too aggressive.

The Yamaha Supersport utilizes a 298mm four-piston radial double disc brake at the front and a 245mm disc brake at the rear to slow down its impressive speed. During my time testing the Yamaha Supersport, I was thoroughly impressed by the braking performance. Despite pushing the bike to its limits, the brakes provided a smooth and controlled stopping power, allowing me to ride with confidence. Initially, there was a brief adjustment period to get used to the brakes, but once familiarized, they offered excellent feedback and precision.

When it comes to Yamaha Supersport bikes, one crucial aspect is the ergonomics. Initially, I assumed that the R7 was simply an MT07 with a fairing, but sitting on it for the first time proved me wrong. The R7 features a low, curved handlebar that not only looks visually appealing but also enhances cornering capabilities. Additionally, the seating position allowed me, standing at 1.70 m tall, to crouch behind the windshield in a highly aerodynamic manner, providing complete wind protection. Although I experienced some back discomfort after the initial 20-minute ride, I realized it was due to my improper posture. After making adjustments, I rode without any issues and even after numerous laps throughout the day, I felt no pain or discomfort by evening.

While the Yamaha R7 boasts many outstanding features, it is not without its flaws. During my time with this superbike, I found myself pushing its limits in the blue group on the track. Mastering the optimal racing line and leaning into corners allowed me to unleash the full power of this Japanese beauty. However, there were moments, especially on the straights and faster corners, where I wished for a broader rev range or more high-end power.

Another area of improvement would be the lack of an automatic gearshift system. It's disappointing that the R7 does not come equipped with a standard quickshifter with blipper, which is crucial for seamless upshifts at high RPMs without using the clutch lever. This feature becomes particularly valuable during extended track sessions or endurance races, where minimizing physical strain is key. While some competitors offer this as standard or as an aftermarket option, the absence of ride-by-wire technology in the R7 means an official Yamaha quickshifter with blipper is not available.

As a motorcycle journalist, I have the opportunity to test various models from different manufacturers. Recently, I had the chance to ride the Yamaha R7, a true supersport machine. With its powerful engine, nimble handling, and aggressive styling, the R7 is a force to be reckoned with on the track.

One of the standout features of the R7 is its lightweight chassis, which allows for effortless maneuverability and precise cornering. The 689cc parallel-twin engine delivers smooth power delivery throughout the rev range, making it ideal for both beginners and experienced riders alike.

Whether you're carving up twisty mountain roads or tearing up the racetrack, the Yamaha R7 is sure to put a smile on your face. With its race-inspired design and cutting-edge technology, the R7 is a true standout in the supersport category.

Overall, I was thoroughly impressed with the performance and handling of the Yamaha R7. If you're in the market for a high-performance supersport bike that offers a thrilling ride every time you hit the road, the R7 should definitely be at the top of your list.

Here you can find current prices and offers: Buy Yamaha Supersport.