Yamaha Motors have unveiled a huge array of model updates for 2018, including the YZF-R1M seeing a host of electronic updates, including to the QSS system, with that particular update carried across into the new year’s YZF-R1 version as well.

The Yamaha YZF-R1M receives an update for 2018

The Yamaha YZF-R1M receives an update for 2018

Another addition is the XT1200ZE Super Tenere Raid Edition – described as the ultimate adventure option, while the TMax and XMax scooter lines see updates for the new year models, with new colours and the TMax being available in two new versions, the SX and DX, each boasting unique extra features over the standard version.

Here’s a quick run down on these 2018 models and features. We’ll run full features on each individual model in the future.

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M & YZF-R1

The 2018 YZF-R1M claims to be the most advanced production motorcycle ever produced by Yamaha, featuring a crossplane engine and a wide range of sophisticated electronic control technology developed directly from the YZR-M1 Factory MotoGP race bikes.

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

The crossplane engine’s uneven 270° – 180° – 90° – 180° firing sequence gives each piston and con rod its own individual and separate movement to create a stronger low to mid range pulse – and this race-bred engine is also characterized by its exceptional exhaust growl. The electronics meanwhile work in the background to provide the rider seamless support to harness the power and achieve better lap times in any conditions.

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

The YZF-R1M’s exclusive Öhlins Electronic Racing Suspension (ERS) is the most advanced system in the Supersport class, and gives the rider a real advantage by adapting automatically and seamlessly to track conditions. This is done by instantly analysing data from the bike’s 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), and constantly and seamlessly making fine adjustments to the fork and shock settings.

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

For 2018 the YZF-R1M is equipped with the latest Smart EC 2 ERS that is the most sophisticated system ever developed byÖhlins for a production motorcycle. This new system offers increased intelligence for even more precise suspension dynamics while attacking the track, especially with the new brake support, acceleration support and corner support functions.

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

ERS prevents fork dive and minimises squat – and by using the YRC, the behaviour and characteristics of the ERS during braking, acceleration and cornering can be set up separately and individually. In addition, instead of setting compression and rebound as previously, now the rider can simply choose to select front and rear ‘firmness’ and the suspension will be adjusted accordingly.

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

With manual and automatic ERS adjustment options to choose from, the rider is able to dial the YZF-R1M in to achieve improved traction and stability during braking, acceleration and cornering. Together with the use of an updated tyre compound, the latest ERS gives improved front-end grip on this outstanding track bike that is already known for its razor sharp precision.

 

Zero Motorcycles

 

The 2018 YZF-R1M is equipped with an even more sophisticated Quickshift System that is designed to ensure reliable and quick gearshifts without engaging the clutch. While the 2017 YZF-R1M was already equipped with a QSS for seamless full throttle upshifts, the 2018 model benefits from an improved QSS that now also features a downshifting system.

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

This gives the YZF-R1M rider a significant advantage when changing down, because it not only helps to save fractions of a second on every lap, but also reduces the physical and mental input required by the rider during downshifting, and enables them to concentrate completely on entering the fast approaching corner.

YZF-R1M riders can also adjust the QSS settings and create their preferred settings using the Yamaha Ride Control (YRC) function on the full colour TFT instruments. The YRC offers a choice of two upshift settings: mode 1 being the fastest for performance riding, and mode 2 being smoother – and both the upshift and downshift functions can be turned on or off as required.

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

This adjustable QSS allows YZF-R1M riders to set the shift system up to match their own riding style and track conditions – and to keep the rider fully informed, the selected mode is displayed on the TFT display.

In order to maintain optimal performance when accelerating hard, the YZF-R1M benefits from revised ECU mapping that enables the use of the new downshift mode on the Quickshift System. Along with the revised ECU mapping, LIF has also been upgraded to become a more sophisticated system that closely monitors and regulates the power output when the IMU detects a sudden or strong elevation of the front wheel. By doing so it ensures improved control under acceleration, an enables the rider to concentrate fully on the track ahead, without the distraction created by unwanted front-end lift.

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1M

One of the many exclusive features on the YZF-R1M is its carbon fairing, and in order to underline the bike’s exclusivity, the graphics have been revised for 2018 so that more of this ultra-light material is visible on the fairing panels.

YZF-R1M New Features for 2018

  • Latest state-of-the-art Öhlins Electronic Racing Suspension (ERS)
  • Enhanced ERS settings in Yamaha Ride Control (YRC)
  • Updated Quick Shift System (QSS) with new downshift function
  • Improved Lift control (LIF)
  • New ECU mapping
  • Colour: Silver Blu Carbon
  • Availability: The 2018 YZF-R1M will be available in limited quantities.
2018 Yamaha YZF-R1

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1

The YZF-R1 features much of the advanced electronic control technology seen on the YZF-R1M. It’s track record speaks for itself, with an Endurance World Championship title in 2017, a record breaking hat trick of victories at the prestigious Suzuka 8 Hours, as well as 2017 Le Mans and Bol d’Or 24 Hours race wins to its credit.

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1

2018 Yamaha YZF-R1

The 2018 YZF-R1 is equipped with an updated Quick Shift System (QSS) that now offers seamless shifting during downshifting as well as upshifting. Together with its comprehensive suite of electronics that includes a 6-axis IMU, banking sensitive traction control and slide control – as well as front lift control and launch control, banking sensitive racing ABS and unified braking system (UBS) – the new QSS underlines the YZF-R1’s position as one of today’s most advanced Supersport models.

For 2018 the YZF-R1 will also be available in updated colours.

2018 Yamaha XT1200ZE Super Tenere Raid Edition

For 2018 Yamaha introduce the XT1200ZE Super Ténéré Raid Edition, a high specification model is inspired by the development of the Tenere 700 World Raid, fully prepared for serious long distance exploration.

2018 Yamaha Super Tenere Raid Edition

2018 Yamaha Super Tenere Raid Edition

Equipped with an outstandingly rugged and reliable 1199cc 2-cylinder engine featuring a 270-degree crank layout that delivers strong torque for effortless riding, its specification tells the serious adventure rider everything they need to know: shaft drive; electronically adjustable suspension; 23-litre fuel tank; adjustable seat and screen; unified braking – and advanced electronic control technology including TCS, Cruise Control and D-MODE.

2018 Yamaha Super Tenere Raid Edition

2018 Yamaha Super Tenere Raid Edition

For 2018 Yamaha is able to offer the most complete package with the XT1200ZE Super Tenere Raid Edition – Yamaha’s ultimate large capacity adventure model.

 

NG Brakes

 

Aimed at those long distance riders who want the highest specification motorcycle that’s built to load up and go, the Super Ténéré Raid Edition is equipped with new 37-litre aluminium side cases, giving a total capacity of 74 litres.

2018 Yamaha Super Tenere Raid Edition

2018 Yamaha Super Tenere Raid Edition

These sturdy yet lightweight new side cases are designed to accommodate additional luggage that can be strapped on top, increasing the carrying capacity. For extreme durability, this high quality aluminium luggage has all corner points reinforced in techno polymer.

2018 Yamaha Super Tenere Raid Edition

2018 Yamaha Super Tenere Raid Edition

For high levels of wind and weather protection the exclusive Super Tenere Raid Edition is equipped with a high screen and wind deflectors – and with fog lamps fitted as standard, the XT1200ZE Super Tenere Raid Edition has the same 4-lamp face design as the Tenere 700 World Raid.

2018 Yamaha Super Tenere Raid Edition

2018 Yamaha Super Tenere Raid Edition

To give added peace of mind when riding off road, the Raid Edition is fitted with a rugged skid plate featuring side extensions that help prevent damage to engine cases over rough or rocky terrain. The Super Ténéré Raid Edition is also equipped with exclusive carbon side panels, while the newly designed graphics reinforce its rugged go-getting spirit, and underline its position as the ultimate large capacity Yamaha Adventure model.

2018 Yamaha Super Tenere Raid Edition

2018 Yamaha Super Tenere Raid Edition

2018 Yamaha XT1200ZE Super Tenere Raid Edition Highlights

  • Newly designed dual 37-litre aluminium side cases for 74 litres total carrying capacity
  • High screen and wind deflectors
  • Skid plate with side extensions
  • Fog lamps
  • Carbon side panels
  • Exclusive new Raid Edition graphics
  • 1199cc liquid-cooled inline 2-cylinder engine
  • 270-degree crank for strong torque
  • Shaft drive with clutch dampers and shaft dampers
  • Electronically adjustable suspension
  • Intelligent unified braking system and ABS
  • Traction control, cruise control and Yamaha D-mode
  • Tough spoked aluminium wheels with tubeless tyres
  • Tapered aluminium handlebars and adjustable screen
  • LCD instruments with gear position indicator
  • 190mm travel, adjustable front and rear suspension
  • Adjustable seat height from 845mm-870mm
  • 23 litre fuel tank and stitch less dual seat
  • Colours: Yamaha Blue with Raid Edition Graphics, Tech Black with Raid Edition Graphics

2018 Yamaha XT1200ZE Super Tenere Raid Edition Gallery

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