Yamaha Just Set Fire To The AIMExpo: 2017 Yamaha R6 Rides On Every Biker’s Buying List

Before the opening of the AIMExpo in Orlando yesterday, Yamaha revealed the new YZF R6. This is the first new R6 bike that Yamaha has revealed in almost six years. The bike inherits its looks, gears, and electronics from its latest precursor YZF-R1.

According to NewAtlas, the Yamaha R6 is built around the already existing engine and chassis. Probably Yamaha wants to re-establish its world dominance in the Supersport bike class that Yamaha has in the all but stagnating in the past years.

Yamaha R6.. all new for 2017.
Get your eyes around this beauty!#fireitup #R6 @yamahamotoreu @YamahaMotorUSA pic.twitter.com/xRh7XBIKZT

— Motofire (@wearemotofire) October 13, 2016

The Yamaha R6 has won the World Supersport Championship 3 times in the last decade. Selling more than 160,000 units sold in Europe, it is probably the most popular super-sport bike that Yamaha has ever built. The YZF R6 is light, fast and its 600cc model is reportedly the number one choice of super-sport thrill seekers. Here's everything about the new R6, you should know:

Complete Features

The 2017 Yamaha R6 features a new analog/digital LCD combination package displaying a programmable shift light and fuel economy. It also has dual trip meters with an additional reserved miles function. The display also includes indicators such as TCS and D-Mode.

The D-Mode system enables the rider to choose the best optimum engine character with reference to their preferences. The riders can also choose from the three throttle valve control maps at the push of a button.

The YCC-T system can sense even the minimal throttle input and instantaneously activates the throttle valves to control the intake volume. This tech gives the rider the precise level of control as is required on the racing tracks.

Style And Design

The 2017 Yamaha R6 appears to have a much sleeker profile, expressing the Next Gen Yamaha R-series styling. Inspired from the latest YZF-R1, the new R6 also uses LED lighting to a great effect. Although the compact LED headlights have been pushed away to keep the bike safe from a mechanical appearance, it still provides an eye-catching illumination.

Front LED turn signals have been integrated with the mirrors, while the back LED taillight has an ultra-compact size to match its sleek tail unit. The R6's futuristic and aggressive look does make it stand out from anything else on the road today.

Engine and Power

2017 Yamaha R6 has a compact liquid-cooled DOHC 599cc four-cylinder engine, which comprises of sixteen titanium valves coupled with a high 13.1:1 compression ratio. The lightweight forged pistons in the engine allow for a smooth yet high-revving power.

A close-ratio six-speed transmission delivers seamless power and maximum acceleration to suit the engine output and is designed to be very compact. The crankshaft, input and output shafts are "stacked" in a triangular layout to centralize mass and keep the engine shorter front-to-back, which allows optimized engine placement in the frame for outstanding handling.

Safety Features

The YZF-R6 uses 320mm front rotors found on the R1, four-piston radial-mount calipers, and a Nissin radial-pump master cylinder. The configuration not only gives excellent power but provides a precise control as well. A rear caliper that is relatively new and light weight supports the front system. The ABS are perfect for enhanced braking even on imperfect road surfaces.

The Yamaha R6 is expected to hit the showrooms in March 2017. While market prices for Europe are not yet known, the Bike will retail at $12,199 in the US.