2009 Yamaha R1 User/Owner Review: Power Modes Expained

A continuation of my 2009 R1 Review, in this I discuss the differences in the power modes. I will soon get a helmet cam so I can better explain and show these differences. Sorry for the shaky camera work.

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• 2009
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[OT766]

When riding the R1 in the twisties, do you feel that you need more pressure to hold it at a static lean angle than the other ltr bikes that are lighter? I'm currently riding a Ninja 650r and want to upgrade to a ltr bike and the R1 is my top choice but my concern is whether or not the extra weight makes it harder to handle in curves. I'm also considering getting my dream bike (1198) but I figured the R1 is more practical for now. Also, thanks for all the great videos they're very helpful. Peace.

[Truthalive7]

@OT766 I think your decision to start with the R1 is a good one. The power modes make it very easy to transition from a starter bike to a liter, and the handling is extremely stable and predictable. This bike is perfect for the backroads and riding around. The weight only really comes into play on the initial turn-in, which is slower than a fireblade or 1198, both of which are much lighter. You will also feel it during quick, side-to-side transitions, such as chicanes at a track.

[Truthalive7]

@OT766 I have ridden an 08 Honda 1000rr, and you really can feel the handing difference that comes from the lighter weight, just as I can feel the lighter weight on the Ducati too, but I think that on the road, the benefits of the power modes and the crossplane crankshaft far out-weigh the negatives of the heavier weight. Also a quick way to shed weight on this bike is to eliminate the massive pipes and do a shorty pipe out the bottom. I think it cuts around 18 pounds.

[marshie1337]

i appreciate your videos. obviously, you know your shit. i'm looking to buy a 2011 r1 here in the next few weeks. coming from a 600, i'm a little nervous about jumping to a 1000 (the 600 got me in plenty of trouble), but i got bored of it and am ready for something easier on gas than my truck. anyways, just wanted to let you know that i am seriously grateful for your vids. ride safe bro

[Truthalive7]

@marshie1337 Thanks for the positive comments. I think the R1 will be great for you. Being the heaviest of the literbikes, it will feel like a pig compared to your 600, but it handles fine and the power modes will make it easy for you to upgrade. If you start with B and then spend most of your time in standard, it will be really easy to acclimate to the bike's power band quickly. Let me know when you pick it up; I want to hear how you like it! RIDE SAFE

[eojcowboy]

This really helps, Im selling my 2007 ninja650r soon to upgrade and unbiased in depth information is what iv been searching for with this bike... The R1 has always been my favorite, and this just makes my decision easier, happy riding!!! 

[schecterguitarsfan]

Would you recommend this bike to a little experienced rider? I wouldn't say im a beginner cause i used to ride scooters and a motorcycle with a clutch a year ago but i sold them both

[frostyisag10]

@laxwendrof thats a rather rash statement. not that you can use all that power any way....come on dude rly

[ss8Jayhan]

thanks for the info,.,.,.,.,.

[ALLWAR121]

This is a very good informative video, however if I'm going to pay the $15K for an R1 why on earth would I want it to go slow? If someone isn't wanting to go that fast then get an R6. Again, great video.