The 2006 European models Yamaha Sports "YZF-R1" and "YZF-R1 SP"
With engine and chassis maturation for improved circuit performance
Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd. (YMC) announces the debut of the new 2006 European market model the Yamaha Sports "YZF-R1," mounting a liquid-cooled 4-stroke DOHC in-line 4-cylinder 5-valve engine on an aluminum frame. Also debuting is "YZF-R1 SP," an advanced limited version with boosted circuit performance potential (500 units for Europe, 1,330 units in all with other spec variations). These models will be displayed at the "Paris Show" (Mondial du Deux Roues 2005) opening on October 1, 2005.
The new YZF-R1 was developed to take the existing model's already outstanding basic functions and add even more performance potential through maturation of the engine and chassis with the aim of "offering an even more exciting world of riding." The boosted max. power output and the optimized rigidity balance of the chassis substantially increase the performance and further refine its famed R1 handling. What's more a range of four color options are now offered, including Yamaha Motor 50th Anniversary model with the nostalgic "Inter color" scheme (Reddish Yellow Cocktail 1) of the Yamaha race machines of the 70s.
As a deluxe performance model, the "YZF-R1 SP" version boasts added performance potential for circuit riding with features including (1) a "slipper clutch" that contributes to smoother cornering performance, (2) Ohlins suspensions for more consistent, stable performance and (3) lightweight Marchesini forged aluminum wheels front and rear.
Market Background and Product Summary
Demand in the European supersport market has held steady in recent years at an annual level of about 140,000 units primarily in the 600cc class and the 1,000cc class. Of these, the 1,000cc models have been the center of increasing attention since the change in the World Superbike regulation that allows entry of (4-cylinder) 1,000cc models beginning with the 2003 season.
The development concept for the existing YZF-R1 introduced in 2004 was "A beautiful & exciting sports model that wins the title of fastest in secondary road riding." When it was launched on the market, it immediately won the hearts of enthusiasts for its high-level balance of design, performance and handling, and its appearance on the scene caused the other makers to launch some ten rival machines. Still the YZF-R1 has continued to win the popular support of enthusiasts.
In the marketplace it was highly acclaimed not only for the excitement offered by its outstanding performance but also the unprecedented artistry of its design details rarely seen in a production model.
This YZF-R1 also proved its awesome performance potential in 2004 by winning the championship titles in the FIM World Endurance Championship, Superstock class of the AMA road racing championships in the USA and the European Superstock Championship.
Building on the already awesome potential of this existing model, the new 2006 YZF-R1 is particularly characterized by its ease of use on winding public roads and added excitement in circuit riding, making it a models that offers the double enjoyment of high performance for riders whose hobby is circuit riding and a "jewelry-like" finish in many of its exterior details.