Yamaha It has patented an innovative active aerodynamic system. Thanks to electronically controlled mobile side air outlets, motorcycle can improve its aerodynamic efficiency, better adapt to different conduction conditions and reduce emissions. A technology that could mark the beginning of a new era for superbikes … and perhaps facilitate the return of the R1 To the European streets. Eh? How do you stay!
Although the idea of modifying air flow to improve aerodynamics or refrigeration is not new (it was used in cars before World War II), its application in production motorcycles remains very limited. In the aeronautical field, airplanes like the famous P-51 Mustang They already incorporated adjustable duct systems that improved air flow and even generated some thrust, thanks to the call Meredith effect.
More recently, car brands like BMW They use active shutters to close air inputs when additional cooling is not needed, which helps reduce aerodynamic resistance and improve energy efficiency. In 2023, BMW registered a similar patent for motorcycles. Now, Yamaha take over, although from a somewhat different approach.
How does the new Yamaha system work for R1?
Instead of closing the radiator air tickets, as some cars do, the proposal of Yamaha It consists of installing mobile air exits on the sides of the fairing of the R1. These gates open or close automatically depending on different motor and motorcycle operation parameters.
Natural R1 Current, designed not only to improve cooling, but also to reduce air resistance.
When the gates are closed, the hot air of the radiator stagnates inside the fairing, redirecting the flow to the sides. This prevents radiator turbulent air from interfering with the external air current, which moves faster. In simple terms: an aerodynamic resistance source is eliminated that normally penalizes conventional bikes.
According to the patent, Yamaha Contemplate two different configurations for these new ducts: a single large air outlet with mobile slats on each side; or two smaller exits on each side, also with mobile lames, which allows a finer control of the air flow.
Each gate is composed of two lames that are operated by a small and light engine. The system is managed through the on -board computer, which makes decisions based on variables such as refrigerant temperature, environment, speed, accelerator position and, especially, catalyst temperature.
This last aspect is key: if the catalyst before its optimal operating temperature, the emissions will be lower and more stable. Therefore, in cold or idle starting phases, the outputs can remain closed to keep more heat inside the system.
But, the system is not only designed to optimize aerodynamic performance on the road, but also adapts to different driving environments. For example, at low speed or with high exterior temperatures, gates open to guarantee adequate refrigeration. But, at high speed, where natural refrigeration is greater and fresh air enters abundance, gates partially close to reduce resistance.
Of course, in situations where maximum yield is required (such as thoroughly accelerating or on a circuit line), gates can be kept closed temporarily to improve aerodynamic efficiency, always without putting the engine at risk.
As we all know, in Europe, YZF-R1 It has been withdrawn from the market as a highway motorcycle, due to strict standards on emissions. Currently, it is only offered as a circuit version. These types of technical solutions could open the door on their return, by allowing better control of emissions without sacrificing the performance or sports that characterizes this model.
In addition, a more aerodynamic motorcycle also consumes less fuel and generates less emissions, factors that are increasingly weighing both for manufacturers, customers and, above all, administration.
