The first iteration of the Yamaha R1 featured a revolutionary ‘stacked gearbox’ design, which allowed for the 998cc inline-four motor to be more compact than ever before. And the shorter engine within the ‘Delta box’ (twin-spar) frame aided the R1’s handling and helped lower the bikes centre of gravity.
The powerplant was fed by four 40mm Keihin carbs and it claimed a 140-150bhp figure, making the bike capable of 170mph. The even spread of this power was assured thanks to the EUPV (exhaust ultimate power valve), which is an electronic valve in the exhaust designed to improve intake efficiency, boost power output and improve fuel economy.
