Photoshoot of the Week: November 2nd-8th 2020 – Yamaha YZF-R6 & Xenia

The R6 hs always been a “racing” bike and remains so even in its most recent version. Already at first glance the YZF shows essential lines and an aggressive setting, with small spotlights and an easily removable license plate holder. The four-cylinder in-line is inserted in the aluminum Deltabox frame, the electronic management includes ride-by-wire throttle, variable height intake ducts, D-Mode maps and traction control on 6 levels. The electronic gearbox is standard and works only in insertion. Simple and clear, the dashboard offers just what you need. The gear indicator is inserted in the rev counter, on the right that of the TCS (the traction control that is activated and adjusts from the left block). Also note here the “red zone” of the rev counter at 16,500 rpm! The R6 in fact has an engine that pushes hard at high revs, and is designed for experienced drivers who are able to make it “sing” as it should. This does not mean that Iwata’s bike should only move between the curbs of the track: the average Yamaha is at ease even on hilly or mountain roads.
The R6 is “bad” and uncomfortable for the rider, it was created for use on the track and has an “extreme” driving position, which becomes uncomfortable on the road. On the other hand, it devours the curves with an impressive rigor and lightness, but it proves to be more demanding if you want to maintain a sporty pace, as it requires a more frequent use of the gearbox to compensate for the reduced elasticity of the 4 in-line engine. When it stretches up to the red zone it gives you chills: hearing the R6 scream at the top is an experience that leaves its mark. The engine lost about 6 horsepower to get Euro 4, but the thrust remained fierce and exciting. The change is fast, accurate, even if it has a valid quickshift only active in gear engagement. The brakes are from a superior category, they have nothing to envy to a big 1000cc. The suspensions are excellent: in particular the fork with 43 mm stanchions is the secret of driving precision at speed.
In the end: the Iwata average motorbike is a small-scale super sports car: precise cornering and with an exciting reach. It knows how to give great emotions, but asks expert hands to the pilot who chooses it. Just like Xenia’s ones…