Yamaha Y16ZR Launched – From RM 10,888.00 posted on 2021-03-20 05:25:31
The much-anticipated Yamaha Y16ZR was launched this evening at the Sepang International Circuit.
Much has been said by the Malaysian motorcycle enthusiasts since it broke cover in our neighbouring countries. That is because this new bike has many new features that ups its performance even further, hence setting a new benchmark in the segment.
New 155cc VVA Engine
The main headline is of course the engine. It has been uprated to 155cc. Not only that, it is equipped with Variable Valve Actuation.
A “normal” engine without variable valve actuation can only have its valve timing and lift tuned to one certain character: More low RPM torque for acceleration or more high RPM power for higher top speeds.
This VVA system alters the valve timing and lift i.e. lower lift for lower RPMs and higher lift for higher RPMs. As such, the engine can have better low-end acceleration, AND higher top speeds. In a nutshell, it is like having two engines in one.
Additionally, the Y16ZR features specific engine tuning for each gear. Such a feature is only available to open-class sportbikes such as the Yamaha YZF-R1.
The engine now produces 17.7 hp at 9,500 RPM and 14.4 Nm of torque at 8,000 RPM. Those numbers are actually lower than the Y15ZR, but the spread of power will be much better on the new bike. What more, the power is channelled through a six-speed gearbox and a “assist and slip” clutch. The type of clutch is the first for a moped, as it has only seen widespread use in bigger capacity motorcycles thus far.
The assist feature presses the clutch plates together to transmit more engine power to the gearbox, besides lightening clutch lever pull. The slipper function, on the other hand, releases pressure on the clutch plates slightly in the event of heavy back torque due to aggressive downshifting, and avoids the rear wheel from locking up.
Adding to it all is the new specific engine electronic tuning for each of the six gears, rather than relying on a blanket fuel injection/timing engine tuning. Each gear provides different torque and speed variations, so tuning the EFI for each gear means the engine performance is optimised for every gear. Again, this feature can only be found in bigger bikes, specifically superbikes such as the Yamaha YZF-R1 (and of course the MotoGP Yamaha YZR-M1).
Other features
The Y16ZR goes further than an uprated engine. There are a whole host of changes that makes it practically brand new.
The body panels are all new; they are more streamlined in their execution and appearance. The front panel features new and bigger daylight running lights (DRLs).
Speaking of lights, the headlamp sees a new design, as with each revision of the Yamaha LC/Y15ZR range. They are lit by LEDs.
Going behind, the new panels allows for a larger fuel tank. The capacity is increased from 4.2 litres to 5.4 litres. Hong Leong Yamaha Motor (HLYM) claims a 288km range for the new tank (depending on riding conditions).
The electronics have been revised as well, starting with a new LCD screen. The screen’s display is now clearer and sharper, besides being less reflective. It displays the RPM bar on top of the speedometer, besides other obligatory data such as gear position, fuel level, and two trip meters. Furthermore, the Y16ZR uses the keyless Yamaha Smart Key ignition and immobilizer for convenience and further safety.
The 2021 Yamaha Y16ZR is offered in three colours schemes, namely Phantom Grey, Arrow Blue, and Raging Yellow. They will be available in Yamaha dealers beginning 31st March 2021, priced from RM 10,888 (nett selling price).
Test ride
HLYM gave the media an opportunity to test ride the new bike at the Sepang International Circuit.
We will publish the full test results soon, as we are awaiting the pictures from the photographers, so here is a short review.
Keeping the larger in fuel tank in mind, the midsection is not any wider than the Y15ZR. In fact, the ergonomics were all the same: Reach to the handlebars, feet placement, seat height. The main difference, however, was the seat, which has a much pronounced raised rear section.
On the track, the engine pulled quickly and smoothly without steps throughout the rev range like on the YZF-R15, as expected. However, the Y16ZR’s pulled much harder especially through the midrange in every gear, no doubt due to all the advances in electronics, VVA, and clutch. Also, downshifting hard for slower corners did not throw the rear tyre sideways.
The specifications of the suspension were not published but they were very different by far. The forks do not dive right down when the front brake is squeezed hard and did not pop back up when the lever was released. The rear monoshock did not bottom down hard when we flicked the bike over. It did not bounce up and down either when we ran over the ruts in Turn Five.
Also, the bike did not weave around when we braked hard at the last minute. These are real improvements.
Conclusion
The revisions have made for a really good bike. The Yamaha Y16ZR is now more stable, handles better and faster.
Worth the buy.
