For the 1989 season of World Grand Prix 500cc racing, Yamaha debuted the OWA8 generation of their legendary YZR500. The big change for that year was the introduction of a data logging system that could record info like steering angle, suspension stroke, vehicle speed, engine rpm, and combustion chamber temperature/detonation.
Wayne Rainey placed 2nd in the World Championship on a OWA8 (with Christian Sarron in 3rd), and per Yamaha, “in the All Japan Championships, N. Fujiwara grabbed his third consecutive season title” on one as well.
This example is VIN: YZR500-R-815. The seller acquired it from a dealership in Japan four years ago.
The seller has not ridden the bike during his ownership. There is no odometer, true mileage is unknown.
“This is a factory Yamaha YZR500 used in the All Japan Championship of 1989/1990 still with its original Tech Pass Sticker on. The bike has not been “restored” but was delivered in full factory guise having been used and then stored by a collector. We have another Factory 1992 Yamaha YZR500 that was also purchased in the same situation. Rather than being scrapped, this totally original bike was most likely gifted to a Team or rider that had a great standing with YMC. This bike was used by Tadahiko “Tadi” Taira, the darling of Yamaha Motor Racing for many years, Tadi had great success in Japan (3 All Japan Championships’) and on the world circuit MotoGP. You can even buy a Tamiya Model of him on a YZR500.
This bike has been run twice in Australia at parade events and prepared by Paul Tracey (Team Roberts) and Radar Cullen (Team Agostini Yamaha). Interestingly at the last event it was run by Jeremy Burgess, Rossi’s team chief for many years.”
Maintenance:
“New Michelin Power Cup 2 tyres and brake pads. It runs as expected.”
Inside of the tank:
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“This bike is as it was stored with original paintwork. It never needed restoring but shows some patina as you would expect. It has alloy crankcases which is the best option.”
Currently located in Runaway Bay, Queensland, Australia, this Yamaha is offered on a Bill of Sale only. Have any questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
