Reviewing the Yamaha YZF-R7: An Exciting Ride, But At What Comfort Cost?

Sportbikes are often associated with speed and dynamic design, and the same can be said for the market in Vietnam. With a range of models from Asian to European brands, the segment offers a diverse selection. But what emotions does a true sportbike like the Yamaha YZF-R7 evoke?

An Exciting Trade-off for Comfort

“Let me know if you want to switch bikes.” A friend, riding a naked bike, jokingly “warned” me before we embarked on a 500 km journey on the YZF-R7. Having heard numerous complaints about backaches and sore hands from riding sportbikes, I was a bit apprehensive about his lighthearted comment. Moreover, the YZF-R7 is an authentic motorsport bike.

As I started the engine and navigated out of Ho Chi Minh City, I quickly realized that maintaining a slow speed and maneuvering through tight corners in a sportbike riding position was no easy feat. It took me a few minutes to adjust to this new riding posture.

After a brief urban ride, I reached the outskirts, where the YZF-R7 could showcase its performance within the speed limits. The CP2 689 cc engine effortlessly accelerated to 70 km/h in first gear, with the engine roaring loudly as the revs climbed.

The YZF-R7’s suspension is set up for a sporty style, resulting in a firm ride. While this setup inspires confidence during high-speed riding, it also translates to a less comfortable experience on bumpy roads or speed bumps.

I was impressed by the engine’s cooling capability. Riding at a slow speed of around 30-40 km/h in the city, the displayed temperature reached approximately 110 degrees Celsius, but the heat radiating onto my legs was only mildly warm and not bothersome. On the open road, the temperature dropped to a range of 85-95 degrees Celsius.

After traveling continuously for about 150 km, my right wrist started to feel strained. This was expected, as the wrist bears the weight of the upper body while also controlling the throttle. I adjusted my riding position to a lower stance, which helped alleviate the pressure and provided some relief.

The YZF-R7’s windshield is sufficiently tall and wide to provide protection from the wind when I tucked in. The low-set handlebars and high-set footpegs contributed to an enjoyable and “lighter” feeling, as the wind didn’t hit my body. However, this riding position strained my back, especially during prolonged riding periods.

In summary, while it’s feasible to ride a sportbike for long journeys of a few hundred kilometers, it won’t offer the same level of comfort as a naked bike or a touring bike. Instead, the trade-off is the thrilling sensations you experience when accelerating, cornering, or simply enjoying the posture of a racing bike.

The YZF-R7: Not for Novice Riders

The Yamaha YZF-R7 can be considered a sportbike alternative to the YZF-R6 in the commercial market. Compared to the YZF-R6, the YZF-R7 is significantly easier to ride, but it’s not a bike for beginners. The riding position on a sportbike naturally encourages the rider to twist the throttle.

With over 70 horsepower, the YZF-R7 can be seen as a bike for riders who want to test their skills. It lacks traction control and wheelie control, so a sharp twist of the throttle or a premature release of the clutch can easily break the rear tire’s traction or lift the front wheel.

When compared to its domestic rivals, such as the Kawasaki Ninja 650 and the Honda CBR650R, the Yamaha YZF-R7 offers a more engaging riding experience due to its authentic sportbike design, rather than just a sporty look with high-set handlebars.

However, the YZF-R7 lacks rider aids, requiring experienced handling to avoid potential issues. Yamaha Vietnam offers the YZF-R7 at a price of 269 million VND. This pricing is comparable to the Honda CBR650R (254.5 million VND) and is more accessible than the Aprilia RS660 (485 million VND) from Europe.

If you’re seeking a pure sportbike, the YZF-R7 is a suitable choice, capable of delivering an excellent performance on the racetrack while sacrificing street comfort. On the other hand, if you prioritize city riding and are willing to embark on long-distance journeys, the YZF-R7 will be a thrilling option for dedicated enthusiasts.

Overall, this imported Japanese model is a worthwhile consideration for customers who have previously owned 300-400 cc bikes, desire a pure sportbike experience, and don’t require extensive technological assistance.