Cool video explaining the cross plain crankshaft in the new R1.

[No Worries]

Originally Posted by DLIT

That's what I'm saying.

Because of this major redesign, I'd be a lot more skeptical to by the intro year's model. I wonder how much of a difference it makes though. I wonder who's gonna give us the first review. There goes Yamaha, breaking the barriers again.

Buick had an odd-fire V6 in 1975.

Originally Posted by DLIT

Supposedly there has always been an issue with the R1's midrange. Maybe it'll be a noticeable difference.

The early R1's, with the long-stroke engine, had no problem with low and mid-range torque. Not until the Gixxer 1000 came out in 2001 did anyone beat it. Even in 2002, it beat the Honda, Kawi, and Suzuki liter bikes up to 5K, where the GSXR1000 surged ahead. I would buy a 1998 R1 (if I could find one in good condition) and mod the suspension and handlebar, before I'd buy a new R1. Plus, the 98 looks way nicer.