Yamaha’s YZF-R7 stands alone in the Blu Cru middleweight sportbike lineup. Originally released as a 2022 model, the R7 is based on the MT-07 platform with the same basic chassis and CP2 engine. This is the same 689cc parallel twin featured in the Ténéré 700 and XSR700. Utilizing one engine platform across a range of different models is something Yamaha has been successful with for years. Now, manufacturers such as Suzuki and Triumph have followed the same path, as we explored in our recent Supersport Comparison.

The 2024 Yamaha YZF-R7 features a 689cc DOHC liquid-cooled parallel twin with a 270-degree crank, a six-speed transmission, and a slipper/assist clutch. An upshift-only quickshifter is available as an accessory for $200. Separating the YZF from the MT-07, Yamaha fitted the R7 with a fully adjustable 41mm KYB fork offering 5.1 inches of travel and a KYB shock with spring preload and rebound adjustment providing 5.1 inches of travel. The R7′s tubular steel chassis is derived from the MT-07, but with modifications to sharpen the steering geometry and increase rigidity. In another effort to increase the performance of the R7, Yamaha fitted the supersport with a Brembo front brake master cylinder with dual 298mm disc and four-piston radial-mount calipers. And just like the MT-07, XSR700, and Ténéré 700, the R7′s electronics package is limited to ABS.

Before hitting our Dynojet 250i dynamometer, the R7 tipped our automotive scales at 418 pounds. On the Nippon Baiku dyno, the 2024 Yamaha YZF-R7 produced 64.8 hp at 8,490 rpm and 44.5 lb.-ft. of torque at 6,520 rpm. For reference, the 2023 Yamaha Ténéré 700 produced 61.7 hp at 9,040 rpm and 42.5 lb-ft of torque at 6,470 rpm. Although Yamaha’s CP2 engine has grown a little long in the tooth, it is still one of the most fun, playful, and charismatic engines in motorcycling. It’s a Nippon Baiku favorite in R7, as well as the Ténéré 700, MT-07, and XSR700. The bottom-end’s torquey and tractable power delivery makes it great for popping wheelies, pulling off an apex, or squirting away from a stoplight. The Yamaha R7 may not be the fastest, most powerful bike in the class, but it’s one of the sharpest parallel-twin sportbikes.