Yamaha aims to give sportbike riders more bang for their buck with its twin-cylinder-powered YZF-R7 ($8,999). As opposed to the more racy (and now retired YZF-R6), the R7 pairs affordability with ease of use for sport riders looking to move up from the YZF-R3.

Editor’s note: Read and watch the 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 Preview article and video to understand the technical specifications, features, and model positioning of the new R7. Also view the 2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 MC Commute Review for added insight on what this vehicle is like to operate.

The Tuning Fork brand appeals to a wider spectrum of street riders with its more affordable YZF-R7 sportbike ($8,999). (drew ruiz/)

Despite its nomenclature, the R7 is closer to the R3 than to the inline-four-powered YZF-R6. Racers and performance-minded riders will likely bemoan this comparison, but the majority of folks seeking an easy riding full-fairing streetbike will appreciate the R7.

The ’22 YZF-R7 benefits from authentic R-bike styling. Underneath the bodywork is a more forgiving twin-cylinder powertrain and chassis. (drew ruiz/)

Powered by an MT-07-sourced 689cc CP2 parallel twin, this liquid-cooled engine delivers pleasing low and midrange grunt. It offers upwards of 87 percent of its torque peak (46.3 pound-feet) from 3,500 rpm. Unlike a middleweight four-cylinder, it doesn’t need to be revved to the moon to deliver optimum acceleration. At the business end of the 180-series Bridgestone Battlax S22 tire, the R7 pumps out around 67 hp. Redline is just above 10,000 rpm.

The R7 is powered by an MT-07-sourced 689cc CP2-generation parallel twin. Introduced for the 2015 MY, this engine employs a ultracompact design and uneven firing order giving it a V-twin-like character. (drew ruiz/)

We’d be lying if we said this YZF is as exhiating to ride a four-cylinder sportbike. Still, the engine has just enough character to be entertaining. And what it lacks in sheer performance, it makes up for in ease of use…even without rider aids like traction control and adjustable engine/throttle mapping.

The R7 employs a fully adjustable inverted KYB fork. The suspension components deliver plush action but lack the precise road holding of a four-cylinder Yamaha YZF. (drew ruiz/)

The 414-pound R7 feels much lighter than its specification sheet implies. An ultracompact engine makes for a slim riding position. The ergonomics are a tad more forgiving too, but still deliver a general R-spec feel. Case in point: clip-ons mounted below the top clamp. Street riders will appreciate the thicker saddle and plusher suspension action.

This YZF impresses with its agility and how easy it is to ride. (drew ruiz/)

A fully adjustable fork and spring preload and rebound damping adjustable shock let the rider tweak damping settings. But to be fair, the hardware is at a lower specification as the aforementioned inline-four supersports. At an elevated pace, the suspenders don’t deliver the same level of racy feel we remember with the R6. Still, it gets the job done and offers enough road holding to get the blood pumping

Yamaha offers a GYTR electronic quickshifter which makes for faster upshifts through the six-speed gearbox. (drew ruiz/)

Non-lean-sensitive ABS brakes do an adequate job of hauling down the R7 from speed, but the brakes lack the sharp feel of a modern superbike. But to be fair, they don’t need it, considering the more modest speed the R7 is capable of.

Shaped like the outgoing R6, the R7’s saddle is much thicker which will boost comfort for street riders. (drew ruiz/)

We’re big fans of the R7′s styling, with it sharing the family’s lines and unmistakable LED head- and taillamp. Other subtle styling touches include the fishlike gills atop the 3.4-gallon fuel tank and underslung exhaust.

The ergonomics are sporty albeit a tad more forgiving than the YZF-R6 and YZF-R1. (drew ruiz/)

While we miss the sharp precision and racier feel of the Tuning Fork brand’s four-cylinder sportbikes, considering its price, and the market positioning, the R7 is certainly more practical for the majority of riders who want to drag a knee.

Gear Box

Helmet: AGV Corsa R

Custom Helmet Paint: Tagger Designs

Suit: Dainese Misano 2

Gloves: Dainese Full Metal 6

Boots: Dainese Axial D1

Riders seeking an affordable twin-cylinder sportbike with big bike looks will do well with the 2022 YZF-R7. (drew ruiz/)

2022 Yamaha YZF-R7 Technical Specifications and Price

Source: MotorCyclistOnline.com