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Sportbikes

2021Yamaha YZF-R1

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The 2021 Yamaha YZF-R1 is a cutting-edge superbike engineered for experienced track-focused riders seeking ultimate performance. Its 998cc inline-four engine produces 200 horsepower and features advanced Crossplane crankshaft technology, delivering aggressive acceleration and precise handling. This machine is best known for dominating the racetrack with its sophisticated electronics and race-derived engineering.

Capacity: 998.0 ccm
Engine: In-line four, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 176.9 kg
Seat height: 856 mm
Power: 200.0 HP (146.0 kW) @ 13500 RPM

⇄ Compare with another bike All model years

Other years 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail2%

Cornering96%

City riding30%

Daily riding28%

Touring22%

Two-up18%

Track99%

Best for: A track-focused open-class superbike built to devour circuits and fast canyon roads, with launch, slide and traction control for extracting extreme performance.
Built for: A razor-sharp, screaming crossplane litre-bike-intense, precise and utterly focused. All adrenaline, thriving at full throttle and hard lean angles.
Not ideal for: Not for beginners, commuters seeking comfort, two-up touring, or anyone wanting a relaxed all-day ride. No off-road ability whatsoever.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us

Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 856mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with tip-toe one foot on the 2021 Yamaha YZF-R1, with a cramped knee angle of around 75 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 821-900 mm — Long Legs →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 998.0 ccm
Power: 200.0 HP (146.0 kW) @ 13500 RPM
CO2 Emissions: 165 CO2 g/km
Torque: 112.4 Nm (11.5 kgf-m) @ 11500 RPM
Engine type: In-line four, four-stroke
Fuel consumption: 7.10 litres/100 km (14.1 km/l)
Power/weight ratio: 1.1306 HP/kg
Bore x stroke: 79.0 x 50.9 mm
Compression: 13.0:1
Cooling system: Liquid
Fuel system: Injection
Starting: Electric
Ignition: TCI
Valves per cylinder: 4
Lubrication system: Wet sump

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain
Clutch: Multiplate assist and slipper clutch

Performance

Top speed: 270.0 km/h (167.8 mph)
0-60 mph: 2.90 seconds

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1405 mm
Overall length: 2055 mm
Overall width: 691 mm
Overall height: 1151 mm
Seat height: 856 mm
Dry weight: 176.9 kg
Wet weight: 203.2 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.00 litres
Ground clearance: 130 mm
Oil capacity: 3.90 litres

Chassis & suspension

Frame: Aluminum Deltabox
Front suspension: 43mm KYBÂ® inverted fork; fully adjustable
Rear suspension: KYBÂ® piggyback shock, 4-way adjustable
Front wheel travel: 119 mm
Rear wheel travel: 119 mm
Rake (fork angle): 24.0°
Trail: 102 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Double disc. ABS. Hydraulic. Four-piston calipers.
Front brakes diameter: 320 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc. ABS.
Rear brakes diameter: 220 mm
ABS: Yes
Front tyre: 120/70-ZR17
Rear tyre: 190/55-ZR17

Other

Color options: Team Yamaha Blue, Raven
Warranty: 12
Comments: Small windscreen. Traction Control.

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	1998	2005	2012	2019	2021	2026
Capacity	998.00 ccm (60.90 cubic inches)	998.00 ccm (60.90 cubic inches)	998.00 ccm (60.90 cubic inches)	998.0 ccm (60.90 cubic inches)	998.0 ccm (60.90 cubic inches)	998.0 ccm (60.90 cubic inches)
Dry weight	177.0 kg (390.2 pounds)	—	—	—	—	—
Seat height	815 mm (32.1 inches)	833 mm (32.8 inches)	833 mm (32.8 inches)	856 mm (33.7 inches)	856 mm (33.7 inches)	856 mm (33.7 inches)
Fuel capacity	—	18.35 litres (4.85 gallons)	18.17 litres (4.80 gallons)	17.03 litres (4.50 US gallons)	17.03 litres (4.50 US gallons)	17.03 litres (4.50 US gallons)
Color options	—	Team Yamaha Blue/White; Liquid Silver/Cerulean Silver; Shift Red	Pearl White/Rapid Red, Pearl White/Candy Red, Raven black, Team Yamaha Blue/White	Yamaha Blue, Rapid Red	Team Yamaha Blue, Raven	Team Yamaha Blue, Matte Raven Black

Illustrative - generated automatically by diffing the year records already on file, not a manufacturer-published changelog.

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MotorcycleDB Review

The 2021 Yamaha YZF-R1 is a powerful and sleek sportbike that delivers impressive performance on the road. With a 998cc, liquid-cooled, 4-stroke engine, this motorcycle delivers an exhilarating riding experience with smooth power delivery and responsive handling. The YZF-R1 also features advanced electronic rider aids, including traction control, slide control, and wheelie control, making it easy for riders to push the limits of performance while maintaining safety and control. The R1's aggressive styling and aerodynamic design make it stand out on the road, while its comfortable riding position makes it suitable for long rides as well.

In conclusion, the 2021 Yamaha YZF-R1 is a top-of-the-line sportbike that offers exceptional performance and a thrilling riding experience. With its powerful engine, advanced electronics, and eye-catching design, the R1 is a top choice for motorcycle enthusiasts who want a high-performance machine that can handle both daily commutes and spirited rides. Whether you're a seasoned rider or a newcomer to the sportbike world, the Yamaha YZF-R1 is a bike that is sure to impress with its combination of speed, agility, and style.