Yamaha seems to be planning a 2017 model R6 while Honda is believed to be planning to scrap the CBR600RR because of sliding supersports sales and the expense of meeting tough new European emissions laws.
The above artists’s impresssion has appeared online showing an R6 that looks very much like the R1 with all its F1 aerodynamic wings that makes it look like an origami creation.
Other R1 design imitations are the air intakes on the fuel tank, indicators in the wing mirrors and the headlight shape.
The supersport category is dying around the world as the superbike category stages a slight revival with high-powered, hi-tech models.
There has been talk that the supersports category could be revived by forced-induction motors. Kawasaki and Suzuki have both been peering down that alley.
However, this image doesn’t seem to suggest turbo or supercharged power.
Yamaha will have to invest heavily in the 600cc supersports bike to keep it viable and to meet the new emissions targets.
There is no official word from Yamaha about a 2017 R6, but Yamaha is already tipped to drop the XJR1300 and XT660Z Tenere over the expense of meeting emissions targets.