YZF-R7 uses Yamaha’s proven liquid-cooled, four-stroke, in-line two-cylinder, DOHC CP2 engine, giving the rider a feeling of a direct connection from the throttle to the rear wheel. Forged aluminium pistons with direct-plated cylinders integrated with the crankcase makes for lighter weight and excellent strength at higher temperatures, ensuring reliability at higher rpm. The crossplane engine’s 270-degree crank provides an uneven firing sequence with a more characterful exhaust note that emphasises torquey acceleration and linear power delivery for outstanding response at all engine speeds. Additionally, the R7 has an optimised secondary gear ratio that creates an exhilarating ride and a sporty feel.

The 2022 YZF-R7 features an inverted KYB 41mm front fork with optimised spring rate and damping settings for an excellent front-end feel during cornering and braking. The product specific settings make for easy and predictable behaviour, with a stiff feel for twisty roads and racetracks. The fork is fully adjustable for preload, rebound and compression damping force. The inverted KYB front forks are mounted to the steering tube via a forged aluminium lower triple clamp, and a gravity-cast aluminium upper triple clamp. A linked-type Monocross shock with adjustable spring preload and rebound damping strikes a balance between ride comfort and sporty performance for capability across a wide range of uses, from urban commuting to track days. The rear shock unit is mounted horizontally, fastened to the crankcase for efficient use of space and weight, contributing to mass centralisation and further highlighting the bike’s compact size.

The YZF-R7’s ultra-narrow, high-strength steel frame provides excellent rigidity for a sporty and responsive ride by mounting aluminium centre braces near the swingarm pivot which improve torsional rigidity. Rake, trail, and wheelbase dimensions have also been optimised for superb handling while cornering on a racetrack or a twisty road. The narrow, lightweight frame design has resulted in the slimmest bodywork found in Yamaha’s supersport lineup and reduces air resistance while incorporating the rider's body into its design.

The 2022 YZF-R7 is the first Yamaha model to feature a radial brake master cylinder from Brembo. This new Brembo radial master cylinder provides a more linear supply of hydraulic pressure to the radial mounted, four pot front brake calipers creating excellent controllability and stopping power through dual 298mm front brake rotors.