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 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 YZF-R7 is the first Yamaha model to feature a radial brake master cylinder from Brembo. This 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.

The YZF-R7's racing-inspired cockpit puts the rider in a comfortable and confidence-inspiring position that evokes an eagerness to ride. A comfortable seat with material and cushioning used in the YZF-R1, combined with a low-profile fuel tank covers with deep knee pockets for optimal hip and knee positioning gives the rider freedom to move while also providing a firmly planted feel when leaned over. Separate clip-on handlebars are set in relation to the rider's hips and footpeg positions for an aggressive position allowing the rider to naturally grip the machine with confidence, especially when tucking behind the windscreen on twisty roads or on the racetrack.

The YZF-R7 features a full LCD instrument panel. The high-contrast negative dashboard and its compact and lightweight multifunction display with larger displays for the clock, gear, trip meters and tachometer provide clear information. The use of spot colour gives an accent for the high-rpm range display – and new handlebar switches enables the rider to operate the meter more easily and efficiently.

The iconic R-Series M-shaped intake duct and twin-eye front design of the YZF-R7 houses an adaptive bi-functional LED headlight. The R7 is also equipped with a LED taillight and front and rear turn signals. Light and compact, the LED lighting complements the next-generation style of the bike and reinforces the premium specification of the supersport class. Not only do the LEDs offer long life with minimal power draw, they provide brilliant illumination for confidence and visibility day or night.

The 6-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) consists of a gyro sensor (angular velocity sensor) that constantly measures machine pitch, roll and yaw, and a G-sensor (accelerometer) that measures acceleration in the forward-backward, up-down and right-left directions. This technology makes possible the class-leading array of rider aids includes lean sensitive Traction Control System (TCS), Slide Control System (SCS) as well as a front wheel lift control system (LIF) and Brake Control system (BC).

The Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) is activated by a high-tech twist grip assembly that gives a natural feeling for precise control. Featuring a spring, slider and gear that give a smooth and progressive feel, the lightweight ride-by-wire APSG (Accelerator Position Sensor Grip) twist grip gives instant throttle response.