Yamaha unveiled its all-new 2009 YZF-R1 in Las Vegas on September 8. R1 buyers are starting to request rider-friendly features like more bottom-end torque over top-end power, so the new bike doesn't gain much power or lose weight compared to the 2008 YZF-R1. Instead, it uses technology like a "crossplane" crankshaft. The "crossplane" or 90-degree crankshaft has a staggered firing order—270, 180, 90 and 180 degrees—to smooth out the inertial energy pulses that make a liter-sized sportbike feel bigger and heavier than middleweight machines. Tech Editor Kevin Cameron notes that this crank is significant because it will improve grip accelerating off corners. The bike will be in dealers in January; prices start at $12,390, or $691 more than the 2008 model.
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