Comparing the Yamaha R1, R3, R6, R7 and R9 - See Specs, Horsepower, and More (2025 Update)

Comparing the Yamaha R1, R3, R6, R7 and R9 - See Specs, Horsepower, and More (2025 Update)

The R-Series from Yamaha

Updated January 2025

The R-Series from Yamaha is a line of sportbikes designed for performance-oriented riders. These motorcycles are characterized by their sleek styling, high-revving engines, and nimble handling. The R-Series includes several models, such as the YZF-R1, YZF-R3, YZF-R6, and YZF-R7; each with its own unique features and capabilities. And as of 2025, that list will grow to include the highly anticipated YZF-R9.

In 1961, Yamaha made its debut in the Road Racing World Championship Grand Prix and has been continuously learning technological and cultural lessons that help shape its motorcycle development. Today, Yamaha's R-Series supersport lineup showcases the results of its research.

The original YZF-R1 was released in 1998 and though we’ve seen significant technological advances since then, one thing remains the same: every sportbike that is part of this lineup is sure to bring an exhilarating and eye-catching ride. Curious about how it came to be? Check out the pedigree of the R-Series.

In this article, we'll cover:

The Yamaha R1: An Introduction to a Legend

The Yamaha R3: An Entry Level Bike with Style and Performance

The Yamaha R6: Power, Handling, and Design

The Yamaha R7: From World Superbike to Your Garage

Yamaha R9: It’s Finally Here

 

Comparing the Yamaha R-Series Sportbikes 

Over the years, Yamaha released a number of motorcycles in the series - all designed to improve certain characteristics from the previous iteration or to fill a gap in the market. And though there are certainly differences between the bikes, it’s clear when there’s an “R” in the name, that the bike will be synonymous for an above average experience.

Let’s start with the key specs for some of the most popular models in the series: the R1, R3, R6, R7, and the upcoming R9. We’ll also break down the types of riders that each bike is a good fit for and touch on what changes we can expect for the model year 2025.

 

Yamaha R1: An Introduction to a Legend

When Yamaha released the R1, its impact was immediate. In fact, it was considered so influential in the sportbike realm that Japanese journalists named the effect the “R1 shock”. At the time, stability, traction, and rideability that the bike would come to be known for were unprecedented.

The R1 is also slated for a new model release in 2025. (PS: Want to see more new bikes you don’t want to miss in 2025? Here’s our list of 14 more.)

2025 Yamaha R1 Specs:

  • Engine Type: 998cc, liquid-cooled inline 4 cylinder DOHC; 4- valves per cylinder
  • Horsepower: 200 hp
  • Torque: 83 ft-lb
  • Bore x Stroke: 79.0mm x 50.9mm
  • Compression Ratio: 13.0:1
  • Fuel Delivery: Fuel injection with YCC-T and YCC-I
  • Transmission: 6-speed; wet multiplate assist and slipper clutch
  • Final Drive: Chain
  • Suspension / Front: 43mm KYB® inverted fork, fully adjustable; 4.7- in travel
  • Suspension / Rear: KYB® single shock, fully adjustable; 4.7-in travel
  • Brakes / Front: Dual 320mm hydraulic disc; Brake Control System and ABS
  • Brakes / Rear: 220mm hydraulic disc; Brake Control System and ABS
  • Tires / Front: 120/70ZR17 Bridgestone® BATTLAX RACING STREET RS11F
  • Tires / Rear: 190/55ZR17 Bridgestone® BATTLAX RACING STREET RS11R
  • Price: from $18,999

Dimensions, capacity, and colors:

  • L x W x H: 80.9 in x 27.2 in x 45.9 in
  • Seat Height: 33.7 in
  • Wheelbase: 55.3 in
  • Rake (Caster Angle): 24.0°
  • Trail: 4.0 in
  • Maximum Ground Clearance: 5.1 in
  • Fuel Capacity: 4.5 gal
  • Fuel Economy: 33 mpg
  • Wet Weight: 448 lb
  • Warranty: 1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty)
  • Colors: Team Yamaha Blue; Performance Black

The Yamaha R1 was designed to deliver thrilling riding experiences to the most demanding riders. With its high-revving engine, lightweight build, and electronic rider aids, the R1 offers superb handling and power.

New for 2025: Updates and Features to Look For

With the latest version of the R1 just released, you might be wondering what makes it different from older models. Some key improvements and modifications include:

MotoGP Inspired Winglets: These create additional downforce for improved chassis stability and added front-end feel when braking or cornering.

Brembo Brakes: Brembo Stylema monobloc front brake calipers are coupled with a new Brembo master cylinder to provide exceptional braking power and feel.

KYB Front Suspension: This new front fork is fully redesigned offering excellent response, road feel, and chassis stability. It features individual adjusters on the right and left fork tubes for a full range of adjustability including preload, high- and low-speed compression, and rebound adjustments for precise damping control.

MotoGP Derived Crossplane Crankshaft Engine: The R1's 998cc inline-four-cylinder engine features Yamaha's exclusive crossplane crankshaft technology derived from the YZR-M1 MotoGP race bike. It equalizes inertial forces at the crankshaft, resulting in a direct feeling of linear torque, so riders enjoy a stronger connection between the throttle grip and rear wheel.

Digital Superbike Technology: The YZF-R1 features a cableless ride-by-wire Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) system that transforms the rider's inputs into motion, with a full suite of IMU-powered electronic rider aids that bring new meaning to the term "rider confidence."

Shop Yamaha YZF-R1 Accessories

Who is the Yamaha R1 made for? 


The R1 is the type of bike that even non-riders know about. And for those who do ride - this bike is often a dream motorcycle (for those who are into sport bikes). It has standout power-to-weight ratio and in its most recent iterations (2020 and newer) it is recognized for improved responsiveness and suspension.

And the new features mentioned above even further demonstrate just how unforgettable the latest iteration is going to be. 


Is the Yamaha R1 safe for beginners? Given its performance specs, the answer is probably not. Because of how it handles, a high level of skill and control are crucial. So, if you’re on the newer side of things, you may want to instead consider the R3, which we look at below. 

Yamaha R3: An Entry Level Bike with Style and Performance


Even though the R3 is the smallest supersport in the lineup, it is just as serious about its purpose as its more powerful counterparts. With YZR-M1-inspired top clamps, forged aluminum pistons, and sleek bodywork, the R3 bears a striking resemblance to the larger iterations. Its tractable 321cc engine makes it an attractive option for riders who may feel intimidated by the more powerful models. 


The R3 is known for a lightweight chassis and agile handling that make it easy to maneuver and navigate through tight corners and turns, and its comfortable seating position makes it ideal for longer rides.

2025 Yamaha R3 Specs:

  • Engine Type: 321cc, DOHC, liquid-cooled parallel twin; 4 valves/cyl.
  • Horsepower: 36hp @ 10,700 rpm
  • Torque: 19.8 lb.-ft. @ 9,000 rpm
  • Bore x Stroke: 68.0 x 44.1mm
  • Compression Ratio: 11.2:1
  • Fuel Delivery: Fuel injection
  • Transmission: 6-speed; multiplate wet clutch; with Assist & Slipper clutch
  • Final Drive: Chain
  • Suspension / Front: Inverted telescopic fork; 5.1 in. travel
  • Suspension / Rear: Monocross single shock, preload adjustable; 4.9 in. travel
  • Brakes / Front: Floating 298mm hydraulic disc w/ ABS
  • Brakes / Rear: 220mm hydraulic disc w/ ABS
  • Tires / Front: Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300; 110/70-17
  • Tires / Rear: Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300; 140/70-17
  • Price: $5,299

Dimensions, capcity, and colors:

  • L x W x H: 82.3 in x 28.9 in x 44.9 in
  • Seat Height: 30.7 in
  • Wheelbase: 54.3 in
  • Rake (Caster Angle): 25.0°
  • Trail: 3.7 in
  • Maximum Ground Clearance: 6.3 in
  • Fuel Capacity: 3.7 gal
  • Fuel Economy: 56 mpg
  • Wet Weight: 373 lb
  • Warranty: 1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty)
  • Colors: Team Yamaha Blue; Matte Stealth Black; Lunar White / Nebula Blue

 

With its advanced technology and eye-catching design, the R3 offers a combination of style, performance, and affordability that is unmatched in its class.

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2025 Updates for the R3

Though the R3 might not be experiencing as significant of an overhaul for the new year as some other models in the line, there are several improvements worth noting:

New Generation R-Series Styling: The 2025 model features a new front fairing, sleek new side panels, and a sporty new tail section with the signature R-series tail wing.

Modern LED Lighting: This includes a new single projector-type headlight flanked by four-element position lights, along with a new LED tail light and turn signals.

Smartphone Connectivity: Enjoy Yamaha Motorcycle Connect (Y-Connect) smartphone connectivity which works in conjunction with the free-of-charge Y-Connect app (for iOS and Android) to enable a direct connection between motorcycle and smartphone. This means you can view incoming calls, email, and message notifications.

New LCD Display: The new instrument cluster now displays connected smartphone information along with crucial bike data. A new USB-A socket will be located next to the display providing power to charge your phone or for heated gear.

New Assist & Slipper Clutch: With an assist cam and slipper cam, excessive engine braking is reduced for a smooth, easy-to-handle feeling during downshifts while also minimizing the amount of force needed to pull the clutch lever.

New Color: Lunar White / Nebula Blue. Check it out below.

Who is the Yamaha R3 for?


The Yamaha R3 hits the mark for beginners thanks to its combination of style, performance, and affordability. It has a more upright riding position than other bikes in the R-Series and isn’t as tall or heavy - all of which make for an easier riding experience. However, that’s not to say a more experienced rider won’t enjoy this bike - particularly given how much more comfortable it can be on a longer ride than some of its sportier counterparts. 

Yamaha R6: Power, Handling, and Design

The Yamaha R6 is a high-performance sport motorcycle known for its sleek design and responsive handling. With a reputation for being one of the best handling motorcycles in its class, the R6 is a popular choice among riders who value precision and agility on the road or track. The R6 doesn’t appear to be in Yamaha’s current production line, so you’ll need to find it on the used market. (PS: if you’ve got an R6 you’re ready to sell it, don’t miss our article on how to sell your motorcycle online.)


Its aerodynamic bodywork and aggressive styling are a testament to Yamaha's racing heritage, and its advanced technology is designed to enhance the rider's experience, making it easier to push the limits and explore the full potential of the motorcycle. 


The R6 is also known for its smooth power delivery, which allows riders to quickly and confidently navigate tight corners and straights. Overall, the Yamaha R6 is a motorcycle that has been designed with performance and excitement in mind, making it a top choice for riders who crave the thrill of high-speed riding.

2022 Yamaha R6 Specs:

  • Engine Type: 599cc Inline-4 DOHC, 16 valves
  • Bore x stroke: 67.0 x 42.5mm
  • Horsepower: 117hp @ 14,500 rpm
  • Torque: 50 ft-lbs @ 10,500 rpm
  • Compression ratio: 13.1:1
  • Transmission: 6-speed w/ up-only quickshifter, wet multiplate clutch with slipper function
  • Drive:  GYTR R-Series 520 chain
  • Suspension / Front: Fully adjustable 43mm KYB inverted fork; 4.7 in. travel
  • Suspension / Rear: Linkage-assisted fully adjustable KYB piggyback reservoir shock; 4.7 in travel
  • Brakes / Front: 320mm discs w/ 4-piston Nissin radially mounted calipers and master cylinder with ABS
  • Brakes / Rear: 220mm disc w/ single-piston Nissin caliper with ABS
  • Tires / Front: 120/70-17 Dunlop Sportmax GPR-300; 110/70-17
  • Tires / Rear: 180/55-17
  • Price: $18,399

Dimensions, capacity, and colors:

  • L x W x H: 80.3 in x 27.4 in x 45.3 in
  • Seat Height: 33.5 in
  • Wheelbase: 54.1 in
  • Rake (Caster Angle): 24.0°
  • Trail: 3.8 in
  • Maximum Ground Clearance: 5.1 in
  • Fuel Capacity: 4.6 gal
  • Fuel Economy: 36 mpg
  • Wet Weight: 419 lb
  • Warranty: 1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty)
  • Colors: Team Yamaha Blue; Performance Black

 

Put simply, the Yamaha R6 is an excellent choice for riders who want a high-performance sport motorcycle that is both thrilling to ride and visually striking.

 

Buy Yamaha YZF-R6 Accessories.

 

Who is the Yamaha R6 for?


Given the powerful engine and ergonomics that are better suited for the track than the highway, the R6 is not a great option for beginner riders. Considered by many to be a racer bike first, it prioritizes sportiness over comfort. 


For example, it features a shorter wheelbase, which is great for cornering, but isn’t so comfortable for long riders. It also has the highest seat position in the R-Series, making it harder for beginner riders to build their balance by putting their feet firmly on the ground. 

Yamaha R7: It's All About Balance


2025 means a new year for the R7 too - though the changes are minimal in this latest model year. The Yamaha R7 is a motorcycle  designed to provide a balance of performance and comfort, with a focus on versatility and everyday usability. It has a unique angular design inspired by Yamaha's racing heritage. And if the name “R7” sounds familiar, you may be thinking of their flagship homologated World Superbike offering, which shares a namesake.


As you may expect, the Yamaha R7 is serious when it comes to its specifications. In many ways it is an upgrade from previous, and different, iterations (particularly the R6). Particularly in that it was built to take some of the raw power that Yamaha bikes are known for and put it into a package more suited for the streets.

2025 Yamaha R7 Specs:

  • Engine Type: 689cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC inline twin-cylinder; 4-valves per cylinder
  • Bore x stroke: 80.0 x 68.6mm
  • Horsepower: 72.4 hp 
  • Torque: 49 ft-lbs 
  • Compression ratio: 11.5:1
  • Transmission: 6 speed with wet, multiplate assist/slipper clutch
  • Drive: Chain
  • Suspension / Front: Telescopic fork; 5.1-in travel, adjustable for preload, rebound and compression
  • Suspension / Rear: Linked-type Monocross shock, adjustable preload and rebound; 5.1-in travel
  • Brakes / Front: Dual 298mm hydraulic disc with ABS
  • Brakes / Rear: 245mm hydraulic disc with ABS
  • Tires / Front: Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22; 120/70-17
  • Tires / Rear: Bridgestone Battlax Hypersport S22; 180/55-17
  • Price: $9,199

DImensions, capcity, and colors:

  • L x W x H: 81.5 in x 27.8 in x 45.7 in
  • Seat Height: 32.9 in
  • Wheelbase: 54.9 in
  • Rake (Caster Angle): 23.7°
  • Trail: 3.5 in
  • Maximum Ground Clearance: 5.3 in
  • Fuel Capacity: 3.4 gal
  • Fuel Economy: 58 mpg
  • Wet Weight: 414 lb
  • Warranty: 1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty)
  • Colors: Team Yamaha Blue; Performance Black

 

With a beefed up suspension, brakes, and steering, this bike eats corners for breakfast and leaves riders feeling a true rush of exhilaration from start to finish. Though it might not be quite as fast as its racetrack ready predecessor, it’s certainly a far cry from slow.

 

Buy Yamaha YZF-R7 Accessories.

 

Who is the Yamaha R7 for?


Known by many as the bike that fits neatly between the R1 and R3, the R7 is considered to be a more manageable bike than the R6. but still has that unmistakable Yamaha aura. 


According to Motorcycle News, this bike is, “sporty, friendly and with a voracious appetite for corners, it’s the perfect machine for new riders to start their sportsbike journey.” It's also half the price of the R1, and considered by many to be more fun.  

Yamaha R9: It’s Finally Here

Yamaha recently unveiled the 2025 YZF-R9, positioning it as a versatile addition to their R-Series of motorcycles. With a starting price of $12,499 and set for release in March 2025, the YZF-R9 features an 890cc inline three-cylinder engine derived from the MT-09, tuned for a balanced power delivery suited for both street and track use.

It boasts a lightweight aluminum frame, advanced suspension systems, and a comprehensive electronics package including multiple rider aids. The bike's design aims to bridge the gap between street practicality and high-performance sport riding, appealing to riders seeking both comfort and track capability.

2025 Yamaha R9 Specs:

  • Engine Type: 890cc liquid-cooled, DOHC, inline 3-cylinder; 4 valves per cylinder
  • Bore x Stroke: 78.0mm x 62.1mm
  • Power: 117 hp @ 10,000 rpm
  • Torque: 69 ft-lbs @ 7,000 rpm (on EU models)
  • Compression Ratio: 11.5:1
  • Fuel Delivery: Fuel injection with YCC-T
  • Transmission: 6-speed; multiplate wet clutch; with Assist & Slipper clutch
  • Drive: Chain
  • Suspension / Front: 43mm KYB® inverted fork, adjustable preload, high/low speed compression and rebound; 4.7-in travel
  • Suspension / Rear: KYB® single shock, adjustable preload, high/low speed compression and rebound damping; 4.6-in travel
  • Brakes / Front: Dual 320mm hydraulic disc with ABS
  • Brakes / Rear: 220mm hydraulic disc with ABS
  • Tires / Front: 120/70ZR17 Bridgestone® BATTLAX HYPERSPORT S22F
  • Tires / Rear: 180/55ZR17 Bridgestone® BATTLAX HYPERSPORT S22R
  • Price: $12,499

Dimensions, capacity, and colors:

  • L x W x H: 81.5 in x 27.8 in x 45.7 in
  • Seat Height: 32.7 in
  • Wheelbase: 55.9 in
  • Rake (Caster Angle): 22.6°
  • Trail: 3.7 in
  • Maximum Ground Clearance: 5.5 in
  • Fuel Capacity: 3.7 gal
  • Fuel Economy: 48 mpg
  • Wet Weight: 430 lb
  • Warranty: 1 Year (Limited Factory Warranty)
  • Colors: Team Yamaha Blue; Matte Raven Black or Intensity White/Redline

 

Who is the Yamaha R9 for?

Yamaha's 2025 YZF-R9 targets riders who seek a blend of sportbike performance with enhanced everyday usability. Unlike some of the more aggressive counterparts in Yamaha's lineup, the R9 appeals to riders looking for a practical yet action-packed ride experience.

This bike caters to enthusiasts who appreciate advanced technology and race-inspired design elements but prioritize comfort and versatility for both street and occasional track use. With its revamped engine and a chassis optimized for real-world riding dynamics, the R9 aims to attract riders transitioning from smaller sportbikes or seeking an upgrade without compromising on usability.

Summary

The R Series has a reputation for offering cutting-edge technology and advanced features, making them a top choice for enthusiasts who demand the best in performance and handling. 


The drive for speed and quality that accompanies the Yamaha R-Series means there’s a bike for almost every experience level and use case. Many of their motorcycles are equally as adept on the track as on the road, but it’s important to keep in mind your experience level and goals when choosing your next bike.


Do you have questions about any of the Yamaha R-Series bikes listed above? Already have one and ready to accessorize? Contact us. We’ve been in business since 2011 and carry accessories for over 700 motorcycle models. You can shop by brand, product, or bike. 

 

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