The well-known Dutch trainer Have Kate has surprised the world with this ingenious YZF-R6 Crossplane. A frame with which they have not only sought to improve the feel and performance of the original model; also demonstrate that this could still be fully valid, had it been Yamaha that had implemented a technical redesign of its engine following the philosophy implemented in the marvelous R1.
Yamaha YZF-R6 Crossplane: A technical virguería of almost 60,000 euros
The Ten Kate Racing team was very clear, from the first moment, what they were looking for by giving life to this YZF-R6 Crossplane: “This is not a simple improvement that is easily installed, but a true engineering masterpiece, created for those who demand something extraordinary”. They have forgotten to point out that this “that one” must have at least 49,900 euros + VAT in your account. Otherwise, you will not be able to demand anything.
Having pointed out the issue of price, the exhaustive work carried out on the engine of this YZF-R6 Crossplane is indisputable. With the aim of creating a flat-plane crankshaft configuration designed specifically for racing applications, Ten Kate Racing initially carried out an exhaustive analysis of the crankshaft mounted on the Yamaha R1 and its balance shaft. For this, “the assembly was completely 3D scanned and converted into a high-precision CAD model”as stated by the development department.
After this simulation it was possible to conveniently evaluate whether the technical architecture of R1 could serve as a guide for the design of the Crossplane system in R6. Undoubtedly, the adoption of this element brought with it the study, development and manufacture of several test camshafts with which to achieve the most efficient operation possible. These were tested over time on different engines, carrying out various tests in real driving conditions.
One of the primary aspects to address was being able to minimize the vibrations produced by the addition of the Crossplane to the R6 engine. At this point, the data extracted by comparing the original mechanics of the R1 with that of this YZF-R6 Crossplane was thoroughly analyzed, through extensive vibration measurements. Those responsible for the project explain this matter:
“Since the Yamaha YZF-R6 does not feature a balance shaft, tungsten counterweights were integrated into the crossplane crankshaft design to minimize additional vibrations. This approach allowed Ten Kate Racing Products to retain the distinctive character of the crankshaft, while keeping mechanical loads within acceptable limits.”
They conclude: “During the dyno and track tests, additional vibration measurements were carried out both on the engine and at various points on the chassis. This comprehensive approach made it possible to optimize the assembly and achieve the optimal balance between performance, mechanical smoothness and sensation for the driver in a racing chassis.”
In its current configuration, the YZF-R6 Crossplane offers performance comparable to that of a conventional YZF-R6, with a final power of 128 HP, 65 Nm of maximum torque at 14,200 rpm and a maximum rotation speed located in the 15,800 turns. However, its creators never sought to improve the performance of the engine itself.
The focus was deliberately placed on the driving experience thanks to the distinctive and characteristic sound that this well-known Crossplane system offers us. Likewise, a better throttle response and the way torque is transmitted to the rear wheel is also achieved. Some qualities that for the creators of this YZF-R6 Crossplane play “a crucial role in pilot confidence and control, especially in racing conditions.”
