I'm guessing the FZ silhouette is used for simplicity. I would think a bike with that type of motor would result in a unique profile for the necessary air flow, component placement and soot filter/catalyst package. I'm also thinking shaft drive is more likely than not.
Now that is kinda cool. It could be run on used French Fry oil. Instead of hearing you coming, they'd smell you!
I bet the punch out of a corner would be pretty good too if the turbo can stay on boost. The plumbing looks similar to Fred's Beast but on the opposite side of the bike.
I got to ride a GPz750 Turbo on the track years ago and it was more than a handful. Big bike for one and when the boost finally hit it was like getting kicked in the ass. I found it very difficult to go fast in tighter sections of the track due to the turbo lag but once it hit the 1/2 mile straight at Firebird no one could touch me until the twisties, then they shot by.
Considering all that Audi and Peugeot has been able to do with diesels, I would definitely be interested in seeing what a motorcycle manufacturer could do. Not sure that I would buy one, but if they could get the better torque, similar power and 100mpg it would surely be worth a look.
Why didn't Yamaha announce it?
Secondly Diesel engines would not suit the amount of torque to be remotely capable of being competitive with most road bikes even if its turbo charged. Imagine the amount of unburnt fuel also spitting out the back.
The most efficient way I have seen to burn diesel fuel in engines is with the use of LPG. It allows the engine to burn the normally unburnt fuel with far less emissions. Yes another Australian invention.
If Yamaha do plan on bringing out a diesel engine they would have a massive hurdle to overcome. Emission laws. Which differ in every country.
I think that just gave less information that the first one. The media has a great way of reproducing crap. Until I see something concrete I wont be convinced.