Yes, the F1 was designed with a 4 into 1, part of the work to get back the lost horses that emissions control had lost over the years. as a result the 'Supersport' ( relative term!
) produced the same bhp as the F0. Now thats progress.
I also beleive the F1 / F2 / F3 were attempts to stretch the SOHC fours usefullness as the twin cam wasn't ready.
Personally I love the F1, ( probably rose coloured specs as I had one back in the day ) I actually like the styling but it still looks like something has fallen off the nearside. Perhaps a 4 into 2 would be better? Maybe when I retire I will experiment!
I prefer to say that 'Access to the chain for cleaning and servicing is improved' Green1!