2006 Yamaha R1 LE | Motorcycle Preview

Yamaha R1 LE

Liter-sized superbikes have been measured in recent years by the standards of Yamaha’s awe-inspiring R1. Fast and supremely capable, the Graves Motorsports-fettled machine continues to dominate the AMA Superstock class with only minimal upgrades. Yamaha has now seen fit to produce a special, limited-edition (LE) version of the bike that is packed with premium components.

The same development team who work on the incredible M1 MotoGP machine custom-developed the front and rear Ohlins suspension units. Likewise, custom Marchesini forged aluminum wheels—also inspired by the race bike—remove unsprung weight and will improve the R1’s already excellent handling with quicker steering and faster weight transition in corners.

A back torque-limiting slipper clutch calms the downshifting process from speed; the rider can exploit the R1 LE without contending with rear wheel skip or chatter. Power output increases slightly to 183 very useable hp and Yamaha finishes off this spectacular machine with a 50th Anniversary yellow-and-black paint scheme and numbered serial plate.

Producing only 500 of these machines, Yamaha’s R1 will once again be the motorcycle to beat when the flag drops on the new AMA series this coming April.

 


LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.