2008 Yamaha YZF-R1 Sport Bike reviews

Reliability: Seems to be with every Yamaha I have owned and this is no exception. I always keep up with the regular maintenance and have had no problems whatsoever with this motorcycle. Performance: Doesn't have quite the top end power in the higher rpm compared to some of the other liter bikes that I have ridden. But unless you are really looking to conquer top speed on the public roads, most people won't even use that part of the bike. The place where this bike really shines is the mid-range rpm. For a four cylinder sport bike this is one of the most fun bikes you can ride power-wise. Lots of top end like a four cylinder and plenty of mid-range punch mimicking a V-twin. The best part of the bike though is the handling aspect. When you come into a corner and throw the bike down it feels like a light little 600, and with all the mid-range punch of the liter bike to bring you back up out of the corner and all in the most predictable line. Can you say, "best handling sportbike in production? Comfort: Well let's face it, it's not a cruiser and it's not meant for comfort. When you sit on this bike you can tell by the position it puts you in that it means business. This bike is definitely meant to go and go fast. Quality: As much work as I have done on this bike I can defiantly tell that they did their homework on every inch of it. The fit and finish is of what I have always gotten from Yamaha. They also don't take the cheap route out and use metal fasteners where needed and I can see the quality workmanship in the welds and little finishing touches. Show less

At 103mph in first gear uphill at redline. This bike is amazing. Power, agility, braking...it's all perfectly engineered. On top of all that, it is a beautiful machine. Only problem is the vibration. It wears down your arms on long rides. Show less

I traded in my '07 ZX6R for the R1 and never looked back. Besides the killer looks, this bike really performs. Brakes, handling, power and ergonomics are outstanding. I would definitely buy this bike again. It does not lag at 5500 rpm in 2nd gear! Show less