Yamaha R7 : After months of leaks, rumors, and teasers, Yamaha has finally taken the wraps off the much-anticipated R7. This new bike isn’t a direct replacement for the hardcore R6, which is now only available as a track-only machine. Instead, the R7 slots right between the beginner-friendly YZF-R3 and the powerhouse YZF-R1, making it the perfect middleweight supersport in Yamaha’s lineup. Yamaha has also made it clear that this bike isn’t a successor to the original YZF-R7 from 1999—the name is simply a tribute to the legendary machine.
Design & Styling
At first glance, the R7 looks every bit like a part of Yamaha’s R-series family, with styling cues borrowed from the R6 and R1. However, there are a few unique design elements that help the R7 stand out. One of the key differences is the single-position LED lamp sitting right in the center of the M-shaped air duct—unlike the dual hidden lamps found on the R1 and R6.
Another highlight is the bike’s incredibly slim profile, thanks to its compact parallel-twin CP2 engine. In fact, Yamaha has made the R7 even narrower than the smaller R3, which should help with aerodynamics and handling. Speaking of aerodynamics, the brand claims that the R7’s fairing design helps the bike achieve a higher top speed than other models using the same engine. The R7 comes with full LED lighting at both ends, and the cockpit features a sleek LCD instrument cluster. Yamaha is offering the R7 in two colors—Icon Blue and Yamaha Black.
Powertrain & Performance
The heart of the R7 is Yamaha’s tried-and-tested 689cc, parallel-twin CP2 engine with a 270-degree crossplane crankshaft. This engine is well-known for its torquey nature and smooth power delivery. Yamaha hasn’t made any drastic changes to the motor, so it still makes 72.4bhp at 8,750rpm and 67Nm of torque at 6,500rpm. However, they have tweaked the secondary gear ratios to better suit the R7’s sportier character. The engine is mated to a six-speed gearbox with a slip-and-assist clutch, making aggressive downshifts much smoother. Plus, Yamaha offers an optional quickshifter for faster upshifts.
Yamaha R7 Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 689cc, parallel-twin, CP2 |
| Max Power | 72.4bhp @ 8,750rpm |
| Max Torque | 67Nm @ 6,500rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed with slip & assist clutch |
| Quickshifter | Optional |
| Frame | Tubular steel diamond frame |
| Front Suspension | 41mm KYB USD forks (fully adjustable) |
| Rear Suspension | Link-type monoshock (adjustable preload & rebound) |
| Front Brakes | 298mm twin discs, radial 4-piston calipers |
| Rear Brakes | Single disc, Brembo radial master cylinder |
| Wheelbase | 1,395mm |
| Seat Height | 835mm |
| Weight (Wet) | 188kg |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 13 litres |
| Tyres | Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 |
Chassis & Handling
Yamaha has built the R7 around a tubular steel diamond frame, ensuring a strong yet lightweight structure. Unlike the MT-07, which features traditional telescopic forks, the R7 gets a serious upgrade with 41mm fully adjustable KYB USD forks at the front. This setup offers a sportier feel and better feedback when cornering. At the rear, the bike is equipped with a link-type monoshock with preload and rebound adjustability.
Braking performance is another area where Yamaha has stepped up its game. The R7 gets four-piston radial calipers gripping twin 298mm front discs, along with a radial Brembo master cylinder for precise braking. This should give riders a lot more confidence, whether they’re on the track or carving through twisty backroads.
As a true supersport, the R7 features an aggressive riding position. It comes with clip-on handlebars, a raised seat, and rear-set footpegs, all of which contribute to a more committed riding stance. Compared to the MT-07, the R7 has a shorter wheelbase (by 5mm) and a sharper rake, making it even more nimble in the corners. The seat height has also gone up to 835mm, which may feel a bit tall for shorter riders, but helps with better control and lean angles.
To complement the handling, Yamaha has fitted the R7 with Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22 tyres, featuring a 120/70ZR17 front and 180/55ZR17 rear setup. This combination should offer plenty of grip for both track days and spirited street rides.
The Perfect Middleweight Supersport
The Yamaha R7 is designed to be an approachable supersport, meaning it’s aggressive enough for track enthusiasts but still comfortable enough for daily riding. With its torquey twin-cylinder engine, high-quality suspension, and lightweight chassis, the R7 strikes a great balance between performance and practicality.
Yamaha has positioned the R7 against some solid competitors, including the Honda CBR650R, Kawasaki Ninja 650, and Aprilia RS 660. While it may not have the outright horsepower of some of these rivals, its lightweight chassis and torquey engine make it a thrilling ride.
The R7 is set to go on sale internationally by the third quarter of 2021. Unfortunately, it’s unlikely to make its way to India, but enthusiasts can always hope! If Yamaha does decide to bring it in, the R7 could be a game-changer in the middleweight supersport segment.
Would you consider buying the Yamaha R7 over its rivals? Let us know what you think!