Yamaha’s R-1 and Kawasaki’s ZX-9R are due for major overhauls next year. Both are ending the fourth year since their introduction (R1) or major revamp (9R). Expect both bikes to feature fuel injection for the 2002 model year and, for Kawasaki, a displacement increase.

Both manufacturers are capable of matching Suzuki’s 150 rear wheel horsepower. Indeed, the current R1 is far less efficient than Yamaha’s own R6 at churning out horsepower. The peak horsepower of the current R1 roughly matches that of the four-year-old Kawasaki ZX-9R, despite having 11% greater displacement.

Expect Honda to have some significant updates to its two-year-old 929, as well.

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