2009 Yamaha R1

 Lots of hype about this bike, eh?

 The 2009 Yamaha R1 was a pretty highly anticipated bike, no doubt.

Was it worth all the hubbub though?

I took one for a quick rip last night (and this morning) and though impressed, wasn't blown away (like the 2008 Honda CBR1000RR did for me last year).

I think it's the unique engine that makes the R1 intriguing and special. It's got characteristics of a V-twin (some love, some hate) and an inline 4. There's a bit of a fueling issue that I'm amazed hasn't really been mentioned in the other reviews I've read however. But, I need more time on it before I make any drastic conclusions about that.

It's got a decent torque curve with a lot of power coming in at the upper midrange, but it drops off quick. It's grunty down low but doesn't have a big midrange whack like I was hoping for.

The riding position is pretty neutral and tolerable.

Looks are subjective, so I won't bother.

The only immediate gripe is a bit of excessive heat from the underseat pipes...but that's the nature of such a design.

The new dash display is superior. A throttle position indicator, gear indicator and R1 logo are awesome extras that go a long way when that's mostly the only area you see when riding.

I'll have a more in-depth review soon...but those are my quick first impressions.