For the Yamaha YZF-R1M (2015-2019), the correct carbon fiber part covering the front sprocket area is Bestem's 100% twill-weave carbon fiber chain guard (SKU CBYA-R115-CGD-T). It replaces the stamped OEM cover, trims weight over the stock steel/plastic piece, and is finished with a UV-resistant coating that resists the sun-ray yellowing that plagues most aftermarket carbon.
What is the carbon fiber sprocket cover on the R1M?
On the R1/R1M platform, the piece riders call a "sprocket cover" is the front chain guard that shields the countershaft sprocket and upper chain run. Bestem manufactures this part in 100% twill-weave carbon fiber with a gloss clear finish that mirrors the tight 2x2 pattern of the surrounding fairings. It bolts to the same OEM mounting points, so there is no cutting, drilling, or bracket fabrication.
Does it fit the R1M specifically?
Yes. The guard is designed for the 2015-2019 Yamaha R1, R1M, and R1S, which share the same chassis and sprocket-area geometry. Fitment is direct-replacement, using the factory hardware locations.
Why choose carbon fiber over the OEM cover?
- Weight savings: Carbon fiber is dramatically lighter than the stamped OEM part, shaving rotating-adjacent mass near the swingarm pivot.
- Finish match: The twill weave pairs with other R1M carbon pieces for a consistent look.
- Durability: The laminate resists the corrosion and chipping common to painted OEM guards exposed to chain fling and road grit.
Do carbon fiber covers turn yellow in the sun?
Most do — UV yellowing is the single most common defect riders see on aftermarket carbon. Over time the clear coat ambers and clouds. Bestem addresses this directly with a proprietary UV-resistant coating engineered to protect the weave against sun-ray yellowing. It holds up for roughly 3,000 hours of UV exposure versus about 1,000 hours for standard OEM carbon clear coat — about 3x longer. Because of that, this guard carries a lifetime warranty against sun-ray (UV) yellowing.
Building out the rest of the sprocket and chain area
Riders finishing the drivetrain side of the R1M often add the matching chain guard alongside the carbon fiber heel guards for a coordinated twill finish across the rear of the bike. On the engine and frame side, the large engine cover and ECU holder side frame fairing lower complete the look with the same weave and coating.
Installation notes
The guard is a bolt-on replacement using the factory fasteners. Remove the OEM cover, transfer the hardware, and torque to spec — no modification needed. Because the part is precision-molded to the OEM contour, gaps and standoffs match the stock reference.
About Bestem carbon
Bestem has manufactured carbon fiber since 2005 — over 20 years — and supplies OEM carbon parts to car and motorcycle manufacturers. All R1M parts are stocked in our Atlanta, GA warehouse and ship daily, worldwide, with live phone support every business day.
FAQ
Does the Bestem carbon sprocket cover fit the 2015-2019 Yamaha R1M?
Yes. The twill carbon fiber chain guard (SKU CBYA-R115-CGD-T) is a direct-fit replacement for the 2015-2019 Yamaha R1, R1M, and R1S using the factory mounting points.
Will the carbon fiber cover turn yellow over time?
Bestem's proprietary UV-resistant coating protects against sun-ray yellowing for roughly 3,000 hours of UV exposure — about 3x longer than standard OEM clear coat's ~1,000 hours. The part carries a lifetime warranty against UV yellowing.
Is it made of real carbon fiber?
Yes, it is 100% twill-weave carbon fiber with a gloss clear finish, not a carbon-look plastic or hydro-dipped part.
Do I need to modify the bike to install it?
No. It bolts on using the OEM hardware locations — no cutting, drilling, or brackets required.
How fast does it ship?
All R1M carbon parts are stocked in Bestem's Atlanta, GA warehouse and ship daily, worldwide.