The rumours of the new 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 have been confirmed, with the Japanese marque finally revealing the CP2-powered middleweight sportsbike.
Following the demise of the long-running Yamaha YZF-R6 earlier this year, murmurs of a fully-faired MT-07 began to reverberate around the industry. A teaser was released last week, with Yamaha hinting at a new machine with both track and street credentials.
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The new 2022 YZF-R7 is powered by the proven 689cc liquid-cooled, four-stroke, in-line twin cylinder DOHC CP2 engine – the same donk that powers the Yamaha MT-07. Yamaha has not yet unveiled power figures, but the MT-07 pumps out 73.4hp at 9000rpm and 67Nm at 6500rpm.
As well as the full power (or ‘High Output’) version, Yamaha will also release a learner-approved 655cc LA model – much like is the case with the MT-07.
The new 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 is set to go head-to-head with the recently-released Aprilia RS 660, also an all-new model.
Other features of the new R7 include KYB suspension front and rear, an ‘ultra-narrow’ lightweight chassis, Brembo braking components and a ‘comfort-focused, racing-inspired’ cockpit. The R7 will also benefit from a new LCD instrument panel and full LED lighting.
The discontinuation of the popular four-cylinder R6 raised questions about Yamaha’s involvement in the World SuperSport championship, but the new R7 could technically still meet series regulations. The R6 won multiple World SuperSport championships in its lifetime.
With a price tag of $14,999 ride away for the high-output model, and $13,999 ride away for the learner model, the new YZF-R7 will likely be a popular choice with punters looking for a middle ground between the small-capacity YZF-R3 and the powerful 998cc YZF-R1.
Both R7 models will be available in Yamaha dealerships from December 2021, with the option of Team Yamaha Blue or Performance Black colour schemes. There is also the option to fit a quick shifter for seamless upshifts.
ENGINE
Type: Liquid-cooled, four-stroke, DOHC parallel twin
Capacity: LA: 655cc, HO: 689cc
Bore x stroke: LA: 78.0mm x 68.6mm, HO: 80.0mm x 68.6mm
Compression ratio: 11.5:1
Engine management: Electronic fuel injection
TRANSMISSION
Type: Six-speed
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet, multiplate
CHASSIS AND RUNNING GEAR
Frame: Deltabox frame
Front suspension: KYB telescopic fork adjustable for preload, rebound and compression; 130mm travel
Rear suspension: KYB linked monoshock adjustable for preload and rebound; 130mm travel
Front brakes: Hydraulic dual discs, 298 mm
Rear brake: Hydraulic single disc, 245 mm
Tyres: Bridgestone BATTLAX Hypersport
DIMENSIONS AND CAPACITIES
Claimed wet weight: 188kg
Seat height: 835mm
Fuel capacity: 12.8 litres
OTHER STUFF
Price: LA: $13,999 ride away, HO: $14,999 ride away
Website: Yamaha Motor Australia
Warranty: 24 months, unlimited kilometres