The 1990s were defined by three sportbikes – the Honda CBR900RR, the Ducati 916, and the Yamaha R1. Honda’s CBR900RR started the revolution by being 76 pounds lighter than its lightest competition. Soon after, Ducati released the 916. It was technically competent with fuel injection and even an adjustable steering head angle, but it’s best remembered just for being one of the most beautiful motorcycles of all time. In 1998, Yamaha released the R1 and wiped the floor with everyone else – it was the lightest and most powerful literbike available and you had to work hard to find a dealer with one in stock. Over 20 years later they’re still fantastic machines, so here’s your chance to relive the glory days.
The basic specifications are 150 horsepower, 419 pound dry weight, and a 2.96 second 0-60 time, per MCN. Those are all impressive numbers, but the design of the drivetrain is what made it all possible. Yamaha was able to make the engine/transmission much smaller by vertically stacking the transmission shafts. Further space was saved by putting the water pump inside the engine cases. The packaging let Yamaha shorten the wheelbase and still lengthen the swingarm, which made the R1 feel like a 600cc bike but with 1,000cc power.
Manufactured in April 2000, this example is VIN: JYARN05YXYA000466. The seller acquired this bike in 2015 from a private party.
During his ownership, the seller has covered roughly 500 miles. The odometer shows 13,133 miles.
Maintenance:
“I’ve done oil change, carburetors have been rebuilt, tank being flushed, new spark plugs, new coolant. New radiator cap, brakes been maintained and everything is in working order.” The seller states that there are no known mechanical issues.
Modifications:
Akrapovič exhaust.
Aftermarket pegs.
The wheels have been powdercoated white.
ProGrip tank protector.
Aftermarket wrap on bar ends, levers, and air intakes.
Swingarm spools.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop tires with date codes of 1715 and 0315.
The sale includes 2 ignition keys and a tool kit.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Sunland, California, this Yamaha is offered on a clean California title with registration current through December 2026.
Have any R1 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
