<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=1vkcap_0w3UDxOb00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=1vkcap_0w3UDxOb00" width="1140" height="641" ><figcaption>Yamaha</figcaption></figure><p>Saying goodbye to a brilliant motorcycle is never easy. Yet, unfortunately, modern emission regulations have forced many iconic bikes off the market, especially those high-revving inline-four screamers. One such legend was the Yamaha YZF-R6 — a track weapon that won many races and even more hearts. In 2021, Yamaha bid farewell to the R6, leaving us wondering what could possibly come next.</p><p>Typically, when bikes like the R6 are discontinued, they are replaced with parallel-twin sports bikes. Unsurprisingly, Yamaha introduced the R7. Contrary to popular belief, though, it hardly held a candle to the R6’s legacy, be it due to its low sub-75-HP output or simple components. While everyone was perplexed at the move, Team Blue had a bigger plan in action. Executing precisely that, the company now brought us the 2025 YZF-R9. The brand still doesn't call it a YZF-R6 replacement directly, but it fills the void left by the supersport. And as you dive deep, you'll realize it is better than the R6 in many ways.</p><h2><b>10</b> <b>Sharp, Latest-Gen R-Series Design Language</b> </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=40URex_0w3UDxOb00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=40URex_0w3UDxOb00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Yamaha</figcaption></figure><p>Yamaha sports bikes were once posted on the walls of budding motorcycle enthusiasts across the world. But ever since 2015, their design has drawn some criticism, including the 2021 Yamaha R6. The futuristic design language didn’t always sit right with everyone. Fortunately, with the new R9, that’s about to change.</p><p>The 2025 Yamaha R9 features the next evolution of the R-Series sports bikes. The new design retains the sharpness that’s distinctively Yamaha, including its M-shaped front duct and sharp tail spoilers. However, it now combines new design cues, like angled LED DRLs and winglets that give the motorcycle a more approachable look. While the new design has already faced some criticism on online forums, it’s still a step in the right direction.</p><h2>Design Highlights </h2><ul><li>Sleek, front-heavy silhouette synonymous with Yamaha sports bikes </li><li>M-shaped duct up front, flanked by a set of angled LED position lights </li><li>Narrow, upswept rear-end with vertical stop lights — should be even better with a fender eliminator </li><li>Underbelly exhaust that keeps things clean, though it is somewhat of an eyesore </li><li>Neatly designed winglets and aerodynamic fairings that don’t go overboard </li></ul><h2><b>9</b> <b>New TFT Dash With Smartphone Connectivity</b> </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=3uZhax_0w3UDxOb00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=3uZhax_0w3UDxOb00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Yamaha&nbsp;</figcaption></figure><p>Watching the rev counter approach the near 16,000 RPM redline with the shift light blinking was a treat for the senses on the R6. Apart from that, the R6’s dash was analog and minimalistic with little information to offer apart from the essential. The Yamaha R9 changes that by bringing a full-color five-inch TFT display with a wide range of vehicle data. It even brings four separate street themes and a dedicated track theme to suit your mood and riding style.</p><p>That’s not it, though. You can also connect your smartphone to the dash via the Yamaha Y-Connect app, giving you access to message notifications, calls, music controls, and turn-by-turn navigation right on the dash. Yamaha claims the switch cubes have been redesigned to be more intuitive. On either side, you have self-canceling turn signals with continuous signal and quick signal functions.</p><h2><b>8</b> <b>Advanced Rider Aids Handed Down From The Yamaha R1</b> </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=2AIL72_0w3UDxOb00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=2AIL72_0w3UDxOb00" width="1650" height="1101" ><figcaption>Yamaha</figcaption></figure><p>Yamaha’s flagship R-Series sports bike, the YZF-R1, is crammed with features, and the R9 borrows a lot of it, including six-axis IMU-enabled rider aids. The high-tech electronics suite uses data from the IMU and wheel speed sensors to help you push the bike while keeping the rubber side down. You can also fine-tune these rider aids to suit your riding style and skill level. For reference, the R6 only came with non-switchable ABS, traction control (without IMU), and power-delivery profiles.</p><h2>Yamaha R9 Electronic Rider Aids </h2><ul><li>Four-level Power Delivery Mode (PWR) </li><li>Nine-level lean-sensitive Traction Control System (TCS) </li><li>MotoGP-developed three-level Slide Control System (SCS) </li><li>Three-level Lift Control System (LCS) </li><li>Lean-sensitive Brake Control System (BC) with ABS </li><li>Rear ABS off function </li><li>Two-Level Engine Brake Management </li><li>Back Slip Regulator (BSR) </li><li>Launch Control (LC) </li><li>Yamaha Variable Speed Limiter (YVSL) </li></ul><h2><b>7</b> <b>Ergonomic Middle Ground Between The R6 And R7</b> </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=3PSY3n_0w3UDxOb00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=3PSY3n_0w3UDxOb00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Yamaha</figcaption></figure><p>The Yamaha R6, as brilliant as it was to ride, was a committed track-focused motorcycle that would test your wrists and back fitness. It wasn’t a comfortable motorcycle to be on, thanks to its low-set clip-ons, rear-set pegs, and a thin seat. You wouldn’t have the same problem with the R9.</p><p>Don’t get us wrong, the R9 is nowhere as relaxed as a sports tourer. It still features low-set clip-ons that sit under the triple clamp without risers. However, Yamaha claims they are easy to reach, and the rear-set pegs are roomy for taller riders. Ergonomically, the R9 sits bang in the middle of the R6 and R7 — sporty enough for the track while being (relatively) comfortable for regular use.</p><h2><b>6</b> <b>Brembo Stylema’s Stellar Braking Power</b> </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=2UkR1C_0w3UDxOb00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=2UkR1C_0w3UDxOb00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Yamaha</figcaption></figure><p>The Yamaha R6 boasted decent brakes borrowed straight from the Yamaha R1. Still, they left something to be desired; the four-pot Nissin calipers weren’t the best, and they were connected to the master cylinder via a rubber hose. That’s no longer the case with the new Yamaha supersport. The R9 comes with Brembo Stylema monobloc calipers, paired with a radial master cylinder and stainless steel lines.</p><p>For reference, Brembo Stylema is one of the top-tier calipers available today, replacing the old M50 calipers. These are lighter and slimmer than conventional calipers and are known for their sharp bite. You can even find them on some of the highest-performing motorcycles, including the MV Agusta Brutale 1000 Serie Oro and Suzuki Hayabusa. You can also turn off the rear ABS, which wasn't possible with the R6.</p><h2><b>5</b> <b>Most Aerodynamic Yamaha Sports Bike To Date</b> </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=3ESF47_0w3UDxOb00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=3ESF47_0w3UDxOb00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Yamaha</figcaption></figure><p>For Yamaha, the last most aerodynamic sports bike was the R6, So it’s no surprise that the R9 would also earn the same title. The new R9 features MotoGP-inspired winglets that add downforce for a stable, planted front-end feel. The aerodynamic fairing also helps the bike slice through the air while keeping the drag to a bare minimum. We’ll just have to take Yamaha’s word for it though, since we're yet to test these things out. </p><h2><b>4</b> <b>Yamaha’s Lightest-Ever Aluminum Frame</b> </h2><h2>Frame Type: Advanced Gravity-Cast Deltabox Frame, Aluminum </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=2HXfdY_0w3UDxOb00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=2HXfdY_0w3UDxOb00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Yamaha</figcaption></figure><p>Yamaha also claims the new R9 comes with its lightest-ever aluminum frame on a supersport motorcycle. This frame is not identical to that on the MT-09. This one is tuned for razor-sharp handling with a 50/50 weight distribution to suit its supersport nature. Still, Yamaha maintains that the frame is still supple and predictable at low speeds. The chassis is suspended on a fully adjustable KYB setup front and back, borrowed from the new YZF-R1.</p><h2>Yamaha R6 vs R9 Dimension And Chassis Specifications </h2><p><b>Details</b></p><p><b>Yamaha R6</b></p><p><b>Yamaha R9</b></p><p><b>Curb Weight</b></p><p>419 pounds</p><p>430 pounds</p><p><b>Seat Height</b></p><p>33.5 in</p><p>32.7 in</p><p><b>Rake</b></p><p>24 degrees</p><p>22.6 degrees</p><p><b>Trail</b></p><p>3.8 in</p><p>3.7 in</p><p><b>Ground Clearance</b></p><p>5.1 in</p><p>5.5 in</p><p><b>Fuel Capacity</b></p><p>4.6 gal</p><p>3.7 gal</p><h2><b>3</b> <b>Tried-And-Tested CP3 Engine, Retuned For Sporty Performance</b> </h2><h2>Power Output: 117 HP @ 10,000 RPM (R9) vs 116.7 HP @ 14,500 RPM (R6) </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=3Loja3_0w3UDxOb00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=3Loja3_0w3UDxOb00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Yamaha</figcaption></figure><p>At the Yamaha R9’s heart sits the CP3 inline-triple engine that has already proven itself on the MT-09. Although, this time, it’s not in the same state of tune. Yamaha has given it a unique ECU tune with an optimized gear ratio for supersport-like power delivery. It should rev higher on the R9, given that it’s a track-focused sports bike.</p><p>Don’t forget, the crossplane engine already sounds incredible on the MT-09, and Yamaha says it sounds even better on the R9 thanks to the amplified induction sound. The same crossplane firing order adds another benefit: recovery gaps in the power delivery, leading to better traction in the corners. In comparison, the R6 had an uber-peaky 599cc inline-four powerhouse. </p><h2>Engine Highlights </h2><ul><li>Lightweight forged pistons ensure smooth, high-revving power </li><li>Offset cylinders reduce friction for better power delivery and fuel efficiency </li><li>Forged connecting rods are made using the fracture-split method </li><li>Cylinder bores are direct-plated ceramic-composite, reducing friction and improving heat dissipation </li><li>Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) system controls the throttle valves for precise control </li><li>Assist and slipper clutch ensure light clutch lever feel and smoother downshifts </li><li>Third-gen Quick Shift System allows clutchless upshifts and downshifts </li></ul><h2>Yamaha R6 vs R9 Performace Specifications </h2><p><b>Details</b></p><p><b>Yamaha R6</b></p><p><b>Yamaha R9</b></p><p><b>Engine Type</b></p><p>Inline-four, liquid-cooled, DOHC</p><p>CP3 inline-triple, liquid-cooled, DOHC</p><p><b>Displacement</b></p><p>599cc</p><p>890cc</p><p><b>Compression Ratio</b></p><p>13.1:1</p><p>11.5:1</p><p><b>Torque Output</b></p><p>45.5 LB-FT @ 10,500 RPM</p><p>68.6 LB-FT @ 7,000 RPM</p><h2><b>2</b> <b>Street-Friendly Performance Despite Track-Focused Geometry</b> </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=4HDo1t_0w3UDxOb00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=4HDo1t_0w3UDxOb00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Yamaha</figcaption></figure><p>The Yamaha R6 was a quintessential supersport, and it can still outpace many contemporary rivals on a racetrack. However, bring it to the road and its appeal gets washed away under wrist pain and back aches. Not to mention, the peaky engine doesn't produce enough low-end torque to be anywhere near enjoyable.</p><p>That won’t be the case with the R9, as it’s based on the much-loved and tractable MT-09. And even though it’s not as light as the R6, it should be more comfortable on city streets. The frame is light, the ergonomics aren’t as committed, and the CP3 engine is tractable with a punchy low-end grunt. That's a winning recipe right there.</p><h2><b>1</b> <b>Almost As Expensive As The 2021 R6, Despite The Inflation</b> </h2><h2>Starting Price: $12,499 </h2><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=3IaRYc_0w3UDxOb00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=3IaRYc_0w3UDxOb00" width="1650" height="928" ><figcaption>Yamaha</figcaption></figure><p>Imagine this: if the R6 were still in production today, it would cost significantly more than it did back in 2021 — thanks to inflation driving up prices every year. But when you look at the Yamaha R9, things get a lot more appealing. It's an upgrade in every way — packed with more tech and features — and yet, it’s only a few hundred dollars more. Safe to say, the Yamaha R9 is absolutely worth it. If you're on the same page, you can expect it to hit dealerships in March, 2025.</p></div></body>

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10 Reasons The Yamaha YZF-R9 Is Better Than The YZF-R6

Saying goodbye to a brilliant motorcycle is never easy. Yet, unfortunately, modern emission regulations have forced many iconic bikes off the market, especially those high-revving inline-four screamers. One such legend was the Yamaha YZF-R6 — a track weapon that won many races and even more hearts. In 2021, Yamaha bid farewell to the R6, leaving us wondering what could possibly come next.

10 Reasons The Yamaha YZF-R9 Is Better Than The YZF-R6

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