When MD was given a sneak preview of the 2006 Yamaha R6 a couple of months ago, I asked one of the Yamaha product development people if traditional valve springs were used to control the valves in the new R6. I asked this question, because the new R6 redlines at 17,500 rpm . . . approaching the rev limits of modern F1 race cars (which redline in the neighborhood of 19,000 rpm as I understand it).
I am not an engineer, but I have come to understand that higher rpm levels create greater valve control issues for traditional valve spring technology. F1 cars use pneumatic pressure to control valves, not springs, for this reason.
In any event, the Yamaha product planner responded that traditional valve springs are used in the new R6. Yamaha is set to release more details about the new R6, so perhaps there is some variation in traditional valve spring technology present, despite what was told to me.
I would like the engineers and motor geeks within our readership (I know you are out there!) to give me their thoughts on rising rpm limits in motorcycle engines and the impact of those higher rpm’s on valve control. Can traditional valve springs still cut it? What are the factors that place a limit on the effective control of valve movement by springs? Send us an email with your thoughts.
