Yamaha YZF-R7 Beginner Suitable? Yes, but...What you need to know!

Рет қаралды 17,582

2 жыл бұрын

I take a look at what new and beginner riders need to think about when it comes to the Yamaha YZF-R7 as a first bike, particularly focusing on the suitability, ergonomics, rider fit and seat height, as while the bike offers features seen across many of the 650-class bikes, the big standout is being a real 'sportsbike.'
The R7 is best considered as one of the most advanced beginner options available for inexperienced riders that expands well into the intermediate bike category, and is probably not going to be the general go-to choice for all new riders.
For those with a little riding experience, joining riding at a later stage of life with a bit more maturity, or who really want a supersport 600 cc, the YZF-R7 is likely to be a great option, and certainly a far better and safer starting point than any 600 cc supersport machine.
The YZF-R7 offers some great advantages if you're into sportsbike, racing or track days, but obviously isn't the most popular setup on the road, or specifically for new riders, with most beginner aimed motorcycles instead offering upright bars and seating position, relaxed 'pegs and a comfortable seat.
The R7 is closer to what you'll see on a supersport (600cc) or superbike (1000cc) sportsbike, setting it apart.
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Пікірлер: 48

@MotoJournoKris 2 жыл бұрын

I know I upset some riders mentioning the R7 as a possible beginner machine in the Ninja 400 vs R7 video, so here's a bit of a closer look at what to expect if you're thinking of jumping in on the deep end of the beginner market. I wouldn't say the R7 is going to be for every new rider, in the way the R3 or MT-03 are, however, for the right rider, it certainly could be.

@Bobby-wn5yr 2 жыл бұрын

Great take Chris. Tbh you’re the only one I’ve seen go into detail about the aggressive petition and what that means for your very first bike, it was honest and great info tbh. In all honesty I don’t really think this is a good first bike, but it could well be a great second bike or a great twisties bikes (especially the HO). And so it makes sense for Yamaha to make a LAMS version. Australia’s kinda unique in that your restricted period can last so long (minimum 3 years, 3 months in vic, realistically about 3.5 years usually) and everyone has to do it. If you’re 18 and getting your first set of wheels or you have been riding dirt bikes since you were a kid or you’ve got 25 years on the road and already have multiple classes of heavy license and race licenses, you still have to do LAMS for that time. So it totally makes sense for Yamaha to sell a LAMS version of this here, and for LAMS riders to buy it. It’s just that it’s really not gonna be the best bike to learn the basics of bike controls, low speed manoeuvres, etc on. I think you did a great job pointing that out. Especially given these are still new so you can only buy a full priced new one. If you’re totally new and want one, maybe better to buy a ninja 300 abs for a few months to learn on, then sell it for what you bought it for and buy this. That’s be my recommendation at least, you do you.

@MotoJournoKris 2 жыл бұрын

@@Bobby-wn5yr Thanks and yep that mirrors my thoughts exactly. Plus as it's such a long process for so many riders, like you say, you can get a 300-400 for a year or two then upgrade if you don't want to start on the full sportsbike style machine and you probably won't lose any money selling a LAMS bike, if you get a good deal buying something second hand. It's possible a lot of riders considering this bike are already in that position.

@weofnjieofing 2 жыл бұрын

Great advice. For beginner ease of use and comfort is the biggest confidence boost to improve riding skills. To me personally it’s a sports bike version of the mt07 with no performance gain (other than wind protection) but rather poor ergonomics. I’d take an my 07 on this any day. Another great video and one that will help out particularly beginner bikers to make the right choice for their first or second bike.

@WorgiiVEVO 2 жыл бұрын

Few weeks ago I was cross buying this and the CBR650R as my first bike. After riding both there was no question the CBR is a lot more forgiving on the body for daily commuting. For me the Honda’s seating position and engine makes more sense for the riding I will be doing, also the sound is way more satisfying. The R7 really is a beauty tho.

@MotoJournoKris 2 жыл бұрын

It's been ages since I rode the CBR650R, but vaguely remember it being that little bit more relaxed, which for a lot of people is going to be a win.

@mannyechaluce3814 2 жыл бұрын

You need a lot of cash, new riders have to pay more in insurance than those who already have at least 2 years riding time, don't donate your hard earned money to giant insurance corporations, be patient, start small and light. But if you have the cash, get a Hayabusa and maybe you can have a short well lived life :D

@MotoJournoKris 2 жыл бұрын

Haha, that's very true. I think if I wanted full insurance on my first bike which cost $2300, they wanted $3k a year plus deductible. Hate to think what an 18 year old would be on a $14-15k sportsbike these days!

@Jayjewelerofficial 10 ай бұрын

motorcycle insurance it’s not required in my state of Florida 😅

@leanit5756 Жыл бұрын

R7 is like a SV650 but with the suspension, handling, and ergonomics appropriate for pushing the bike faster.

@krasky Жыл бұрын

Just almost twice the price lol

@abhisheksingh4152 Жыл бұрын

Hey mate, good points you made in the video about ergo! What do you reckon about the CBR 650R? Have you had a chance to ride it?

@MotoJournoKris Жыл бұрын

Not in a number of years but I'm keen to test one again and do an ergos video. The bars on the CBR650R are a little more relaxed in comparison to the R7 by way of comparison.

@steventhomson8387 2 жыл бұрын

For the average person they are far better off with in this case an MT07 over the R7 and in different version bikes the R series as opposed to RR versions. Triumph and BMW with the Speed Triples and S1000 adequately demonstrate what you are very well articulating with core strength and wrist "pain". Also I just found out today that the BMW S1000R Sports is quicker 0-160 km's than it's RR counterpart - interesting. Another good video and very well produced.

@MotoJournoKris 2 жыл бұрын

Yep generally speaking the nakedbikes tend to be the more ideal choice for road bikes, they've just got so much going for them, particularly where you're most likely to be able to appreciate it!

@EnvyTheKiwi Жыл бұрын

What should I do as a new rider? I have riding experience, although not enough to be off of my learner licence. I don’t have a bike right now. I’ve always wanted a naked bike as it seems friendlier but then I rode my friends cbr650r and fell in love with sports bikes. I haven’t ridden then r7 yet but is it worth it? Second hand, bikes tend to be a maximum of 2k cheaper than brand new and personally, I’d rather pay the extra. What do you suggest for someone like myself

@MotoJournoKris Жыл бұрын

Nakedbikes are definitely more beginner friendly, and easier to start on, and I'd still say they have the benefit of giving a bit more of that feeling of speed, from lower speeds too - even as a more experienced rider. Although a 650 class bike will feel plenty fast as a new rider either way! If you want a sportsbike but not quite as aggressive, there's also the smaller capacity options like the Yamaha R3 or Ninja 400 which are great bikes too, if not offering the big bike feel of the CBR650R or R7. The Ninja 650 is also a bit more relaxed than both that options in the ergonomics too. Worth is pretty subjective, it's a great bike, but people like different things, and as new riders it's often that learning phase, figuring out exactly what you do really like. I'd normally say with these more advanced beginner options, they are ideal with some riding experience like you have, and because there's a bit more cost involved, if you plan to keep the bike for a few years. Although resale is pretty good, so that may be less of a concern!

@scooty67 Жыл бұрын

Thanks for the video, i'm 56, ridden dirt bikes and a couple street bikes long long ago, I like the R3 but feel like to get back into riding the MT 03 would be a better choice, then from there jump to the R7, Thoughts on this?

@MotoJournoKris Жыл бұрын

Makes sense, the MT-03 is basically the R3 package, just a little more relaxed. Only thing I'd look at is whether you find it roomy enough, as the MT-03 is very compact as far as ergonomics.

@scooty67 Жыл бұрын

@@MotoJournoKris I'm 5'-10" 200lbs, that could be an issue, the R3 did feel good.

@MotoJournoKris Жыл бұрын

@@scooty67 I didn't find it a huge issue and I'm about 180 cm with longer legs, however I went from the MT-03 to a R15 and was amazed the smaller bike felt much roomier!

@Puente4Podcast Жыл бұрын

Hi!! What about the lack of traction control? It's what is making me doubt... I have a Yamaha mt125 for 2 years, and I want to jump to the R7, but still kinda insecure about if I could manage it. Forgot to tell, due to my country laws in Europe, it would be limitated 45hp version (A2), 2 years later i would be able to unlimit it with no problems, getting the full hp. I'm doubting between the R7 or the Ninja 650 2023.. the ninja is more relaxed but it has traction control, but I like way more the R7 in everything else. I would appreciate your thoughts a lot! Awesome video by the way!

@MotoJournoKris Жыл бұрын

I'd probably base the need for traction control on how you've found the riding conditions on the 125, and whether you feel like there's been times when it would be an advantage (or have saved you), or if you've got more challenging road conditions where it'd regularly come into play. The power delivery from the 270-degree parallel-twin in the R7 is also a really good thing as far as power delivery/traction, so for me I'd probably be happy with that. If you're really pushing the limits on the road, the TC may hold a lot more value.

@Puente4Podcast Жыл бұрын

@@MotoJournoKris thank you very much for your advice! I always ride in sunny days, never in rain, and I didnt needed it in the 125, I ride very relaxed, never pushing to the limit and the truth is that I have never miss the TC. But my la k of knowledge makes me doubt if with a 700cc it will be "mandatory". I really appreciate your answer. PD. I let u a similar question in another of ur videos, hehe, just in case u didnt ser this one. Awesome channel, I like very much the way you explain it simple and easy.

@Jett21887 Жыл бұрын

From side view comparison; r7 kind of left with 4 inches for the attack position, ninja look like tight, is it?

@MotoJournoKris Жыл бұрын

The R7 is definitely more aggressive of the two.

@yu7mages Жыл бұрын

Can you take restriction off? Or do you like need to buy a whole new motorcycle? Because im thinking about getting R7 with my A2 license and i wanna know can i unrestrict the bike somehow later on.. Thanks

@MotoJournoKris Жыл бұрын

If you're in Europe I believe you get the full 689 cc version restricted and it should be fairly easy to get them derestricted for fulls. Our system in Australia is similar to the A2 restrictions but a bit more strict, and they've never really put a system in place for derestricting like Europe has.

@yu7mages Жыл бұрын

@@MotoJournoKris Oh i see, thank you

@iamjose11 2 жыл бұрын

I am 5’4 with a 28 inch inseam, do you think I would be able to ride that bike?

@MotoJournoKris 2 жыл бұрын

As a first bike, or have you been riding for a while? I'd say you could get toes down most likely, however it depends how confident you feel like that. Might even be most of a boot if you're sliding across the seat coming to a stop, to get one foot down. If you haven't ridden before, I'd recommend something lower, like the R3, which is only 780 mm.

@AckzSadien 2 жыл бұрын

What happens when your off LAMs with a restricted bike can restrictions be removed?

@MotoJournoKris 2 жыл бұрын

There's not really an easy system setup as far as the process, especially if you want to register the bike as unrestricted and do everything by the book. With the MT-07 and R7 we also get a 655 cc LAMS version, rather than the 689 cc restricted, so there's probably a bit less value in it.

@user-sw2lv3zp6o 2 жыл бұрын

Good bike if you like sports bikes.

@MotoJournoKris 2 жыл бұрын

Exactly!

@Jett21887 Жыл бұрын

Can you do the same video with CBR650r?

@MotoJournoKris Жыл бұрын

Will definitely try and get my hands on one this year.

@LRS7B Жыл бұрын

*”A naked bike.. Just with fairings”* I’m out of here 😂 😂 😂 😂

@MotoJournoKris Жыл бұрын

Think you may have missed some very important context there.

@MotoJournoKris Жыл бұрын

@@LRS7B "So the best way of thinking of the R7, you're getting a full supersport ergo in a 650 bike package, whereas in most of the 650 sportsbikes... you're really getting a nakedbike just with fairings. Not sure how you could be missing it, when you're the one creating it.

@S.A.M.U.R.A.I.7 Жыл бұрын

How tall are you?

@MotoJournoKris Жыл бұрын

I'm 180 cm.

@matthewlizotte8904 Жыл бұрын

This vid more speaks to the Europeans as No First time Rider is Limited in America as first time riders in the states after getting their temp license/Endorsement can run out and litterly buy and can Legally ride a Hayabusa if they so wish.

@MotoJournoKris Жыл бұрын

Sure, I'd say the R7 is a great beginner sportsbike for new riders in America too though, in much the same way the MT-07 is very popular. Bit more forgiving than the supersport 600s, but a nice step up from something like a Ninja 650 for those who want a sportier machine. The A2 or LAMS versions dull power down for the Europeans, and here in Oz though, to get around the restrictions.

@earthlyng_official4599 Жыл бұрын

If youre getting a lams R7... just get a freaking Ninja 400 or a R3.. theres literally no point in spending all that extra money for an R7 if youre a beginner... save your cash...

@MotoJournoKris Жыл бұрын

The R3 or Ninja 400 are hard to beat for value. But if the R7 holds it value well, which most LAMS bikes tend to, it's possible there won't be that much of a difference once it comes time to sell and buy something more powerful. There's a lot more second hand Ninjas and R3s too, by comparison.

@toyboxlemonza3293 Жыл бұрын

I bought a brand spanking new R7LA over an R3. The R3 is to light, to slow and of you've ridden a bike AT ALL you will wish you'd never bought it. A friend has one and it feels cheap and unsafe on the highway. My R7 is light years above it.

@101BadBreath 6 ай бұрын

I mean doesn't LAMS impact HP and R7 is big on torque, and you can remove the LAMS when ready? That being said the ninja 400 is a brilliant bike, the best bike I ever sold. My R7 is a keeper, compliments my older Triumph 1050 well.