Yamaha has just unveiled a brand-new version of the YZF-R6 motorbike, and it looks like the biggest upgrade to the middleweight sports bike in ages. Just hours after several leaked images of the new motorbike began to float around online, Yamaha released official pictures and specs of the new supersport bike, and it looks and sounds a lot like its larger YZF-R1 sibling. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the new 2017 R6, from its possible release date to the price and specs.
1. The new R6 will cost roughly the same as the old bike
Yamaha hasn’t actually said how much the new R6 will be in the UK yet, but it has released prices for the American market. The new Yamaha will cost $12,199 across the pond, which works out to roughly £10,000. That’s pretty much the same price as the current R6 and we don’t expect the new bike to cost much more.
2. The new Yamaha YZF-R6 looks amazing
The old Yamaha R6 looked great, but the new one looks significantly meaner, partly because it shares the same face as its larger, 1,000cc sibling. Of course both bikes draw inspiration from Yamaha’s hugely successful M1 MotoGP racer. That means the new 2017’s face is dominated by its large air intake and some futuristic-looking LED headlights and running lights.
3. The new R6 is the most aerodynamic Yamaha road bike
The Yamaha YZF-R6 is supposed to be the smaller brother of the Yamaha YZF-R1, but it actually outperforms its sibling in one key area. According to Yamaha, the 2017 R6 is the most aerodynamically efficient bike it’s ever made, thanks in part to its redesigned face. In addition to the new front cowl, the new R6 also features side ducts and “a cross-layered design” to help keep drag down.
4. The new Yamaha YZF-R6 features a range of riding aids
The 2017 YZF-R6 is one of the most advanced Yamaha bikes yet, featuring a range of electronic systems to make riding safer and faster. Although traction control is usually seen on cars, it’s not as common on bikes. That’s why the Yamaha’s advanced six-stage traction control system sets it apart from other bikes in the same category. Yamaha has also added ABS braking for safer stopping.
5. The 2017 YZF-R6 has an April release date
Yamaha may have unveiled its new supersport bike this week, but you’re going to have to wait a while before you can buy one. Yamaha says the new bike will be available to order in April next year.
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