R1 sets speed benchmark

Yamaha's new R1 proved its pedigree during the pre-season tests in Portugal as it clocked the fastest straight-line speed of all the factory bikes at Portimao.

The Japanese manufacturer has been a consistent contender for top honours in recent World Superbike seasons with the likes of Nori Haga and Troy Corser on board.

But for 2009 Yamaha has opted to go for the upcoming talents of two young riders, America's Ben Spies and his British team-mate Tom Sykes.