Founded in 1973 in part by the acclaimed Massimo Tamburini and headquartered in Rimini, Italy adjacent the Adriatic Sea, Bimota’s nomenclature is simple: Y = Yamaha-powered. B = Bimota-designed. 11 = the 11th model with a Yamaha motor.
Bimota bestowed the name of “Super Leggera” on the YB11 – you can probably guess that the phrase translates to “Super Light.” How light is super? Dry weight was 403 pounds, an impressive 32 pounds lighter than the bike that the motor was taken from: a Yamaha YZF1000R Thunderace. Snagging a Japanese 4-cylinder motor and wrapping it in an exotic frame and bodywork is the classic Bimota formula going back to the 70s, but this bike was arguably more of a sports tourer than a road racer.
The Yamaha motor was originally good for 145 horsepower, but Bimota’s engineers bumped that number up with a larger airbox, new exhaust, and a carb re-jet. The original MSRP was approximately $30,000, and that bought you revisions to the usual Bimota frame – the main crossmember was relocated towards the steering head and the swingarm pivot point was revised. Paioli supplied the suspension, including gigantic 51mm front forks that were fully adjustable.
600 were built, and 87 were sold in the US. Want to learn more? Check out this feature on the YB11 from the August 1996 edition of Cycle World.
Manufactured in July 1996, this example is VIN: ZES1YB11XVRZES006. The seller acquired it three months ago as part of a collection he sourced from Rockville Harley-Davidson in Guntersville, Maryland.
The seller has not ridden it during his ownership. The odometer shows 1 mile.
It is US and California emissions compliant.
Maintenance:
None. The seller states that there are no known mechanical issues.
Modifications:
Per the seller, this bike is completely stock.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on the original Michelin Hi-Sport tires with date codes of 096 and 206.
The sale includes 2 ignition keys, Owner’s Manual, Warranty & Service book, tool kit, and some additional documentation.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Sarasota, Florida, this Bimota is offered a Bill of Sale. The original MSO is included, it has been closed to Rockville Harley-Davidson. Please Note: thanks to commenter “mrhebeck” for pointing out that the VIN on the MSO is different than the VIN sticker/what it’s in the warranty book, the “X” has been replaced with a “2”:
Have any YB11 Superleggera stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
