2012 Yamaha YZR-M1 Breaks Cover at Jerez

Light on sponsors, but heavy on style, the 2012 Yamaha YZR-M1 broke cover today at the Jerez. The 1,000cc inline four-cylinder machine will catapult factory riders Jorge Lorenzo and Ben Spies, as well as satellite riders Andrea Dovizioso and Cal Crutchlow on the Monster Yamaha Tech 3 squad, as they attempt to overturn the Honda supremacy of last season.

With more than 240hp at the crank, there can be little doubt that the new M1 will be blisteringly quick, and 220+ mph speed trap times are already being pondered for fast tracks like Mugello. Called the best bike in the paddock by Repsol Honda boss Shuhei Nakamoto, the tuning-fork brand seems set to give Casey Stoner and HRC a run for their money in their Championship defences. Photos and technical specifications after the jump.

“It’s very exciting to be here so close to the first race. I love the new livery and Yamaha’s hard work has given us a very competitive bike to fight with this season,” said former MotoGP Champion Jorge Lorenzo. “It’s good to be here at a different track to test against our competitors before we start next month. It was a pleasure to see so many of our MotoGP media friends here to take part in the launch, nice to see so many take their picture with my bike!”

“I’m loving the new bike, man it’s great to be back on a 1000cc machine!” added American Ben Spies. “The riding style is much closer to my natural way of riding which makes it a lot more fun. The colors look great so I’m ready to get out there tomorrow for our final shakedown before Qatar.”

Technical Specifications of the 2012 Yamaha YZR-M1:

Engine: 1000cc liquid-cooled, inline four-cylinder, four stroke
Power: more than 240 horsepower (176Kw)
Transmission: 6-speed extractable with various choices reports
Chassis: Aluminium twin tube, with various geometrical possibilities of steering angle, distance, height. Aluminum swingarm
Suspension: Ohlins inverted fork and rear shock, all adjustable for preload, compression damping and rebound damping adjustable high and low speeds. Various rear suspension available
Looking for: MFR, diameter 16.5 inches front and rear
Tires: Bridgestone, 16.5 inches diameter
Brakes: Brembo,. two 320mm carbon fiber and double clamp with 4 opposed pistons. Single stainless steel rear disc brake caliper 2-piston calipers
Weight: 157 kg according to FIM regulations