Description
Additional photos of this YB9SR are available here for your perusal.
In 1990, Bimota created the YB9 Bellaria – a 600cc-powered (from the Yamaha FZR600) sportbike that was their first two-seater. A couple of years later, Yamaha built a new motor for their upcoming YZF600, and Bimota utilized it to create a new model: the YB9SR.
The YB9SR was not officially sold in the US, though in a review for Cycle World, Alan Cathcart said “it’s likely to find some eager customers in Europe, however, for it is a true hard-nosed supersport contender, with unashamed racetrack breeding, a nominal passenger seat and aggressive styling based on that of Bimota’s Tesi ES. Bimota has hit the supersport target spot-on, the second time around.”
Interestingly, Yamaha actually provided Bimota with the new 600 engine before they even stuffed it in their own production bike. Thanks to an upgraded airbox and exhaust, the engine made 4 more horsepower (104 at 11,750 rpm) in the YB9SR than it did in the Yamaha. Alan continued, “throttle response on the YB9SR is so vivid you run the risk of unhooking the back tire momentarily when cranked over on bumpy surfaces, even if you twist the wrist with care. But the crisp acceleration you get from as low as 3000 rpm—the big hit of power happens at about 8000 rpm-is ample payoff for this rather sudden throttle response.”
Suspension duties were handled by Paioli (41mm forks and shock), and braking was taken care of by Brembo – including 320mm rotors up front.
Alan summed up the YB9 by saying, “So in Europe, at least, it looks like the 600 supersport category is about to have a new class standard imposed on it, and at the realistic price-in Europe, at least-of about $15,000. American 600cc fans with a taste for the exotic and access to the gray-market pipeline are advised to make the most of it.” Lucky for you, this one’s already in the US.
This example is VIN: YB900423.
The odometer shows 1.8 miles.
This is one of over thirty motorcycles that we have been auctioning off from the Alan Wilzig collection. Alan has had this on display for years and has not ridden it at all. It was stored dry and we have not tried to start it.
Modifications:
This Bimota is completely stock. It appears that it may have originally been sold in Japan, but we cannot confirm that.
Cosmetic Blemishes:
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on the original Michelin tires which have aged out.
The sale includes a double-sided page from a French publication.
It also includes two keys and two hex keys for the tail cowl.
Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Bimota is offered on a clean Oregon title. Have any YB9 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
