Click here for an VINData Motorcycle History Report on this 2001 Yamaha R1.
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.
For more on the R1 and what made it special, check out this article on Sport Rider. Or for a buying guide geared towards used R1s (with notes like it’s “getting hard to find a clean one.”), check out this article on Motorcyclist magazine.
Manufactured September 2000, this example is VIN: JYARN05E21A009433. The seller purchased the bike from a private party out of Boise, Idaho, in August of 2021 and states, “Meet Elyze, my beautifully preserved 2001 Yamaha YZF1000-R1. An all-original (except for Denali soundbomb horn and upgraded Phillips headlight bulbs. O.E. parts included), unmolested, unrestored example with just 8,028 miles on the clock! If you’re looking for a clean, classic sport bike that still turns heads, this is it! This is one of the best-preserved examples of an R1 you’ll find! Garaged and loved its entire life, still ridden and enjoyed but not used and abused. I had a 1998 back in ‘98 when the R1 1st hit the streets but lost it in a divorce in 2000. In 2015 or so, I decided I needed another 1998-2001 R1 and searched high and low for several years to find a clean example, then I found her!”
He continues, “The original Yamaha Racing Blue with white “Speedblock” graphics color scheme is gorgeous with its original luster and glassy depth. It’s a true time capsule that gets compliments and curious questions everywhere it goes. It’s fun at a bike night, show, or even at the gas station when someone asks what year it is, they can’t believe she’s almost 25 years old! She is in nearly showroom condition but does have a few blemishes and normal wear that is consistent with the age/mileage. I’ve included close-up photos of the minor cosmetic imperfections to be fully transparent, but they’re hardly noticeable in person. According to the previous owner, she has never even been ridden in the rain, which is evident when examining the headers and front of the engine. I’m selling only to make room for a new project and hope (pray) someone will continue to enjoy, cherish, and protect this stunning example, as I and her previous caretakers have, for many years to come.
✅ Clean Montana title.
✅ Runs and rides flawlessly just as new.
✅ The bike is 100% ready to go and needs absolutely nothing.”
During his ownership, the seller has covered approximately 1,175 miles. The odometer shows 8,028 miles. The seller has provided the following ownership history with mileage notes:
“Ownership History –
1st owner: 4-17-2002 1st registered in OR – 0 miles
2nd owner: 11-19-2003 registered in WA – 2,660 mi
3rd owner: 9-17-2020 registered in ID – 6,500 mi
4th owner: (me) 8-27-2021 registered in ID – 6,873 mi. (Subsequently registered by me in Montana 9/8/2023)”
Maintenance:
The seller reports no mechanical issues and reports maintenance as follows:
“History while in my care –
Date – Mileage – Service Performed
8/20/2021 – 6,853 – Bought in Boise ID
10/23/2021 – 7,201 – Oil & Filter change (Mobil 1 10W40/Yamaha OE Filter)
10/16/2022 – 7,616 – Air Filter and Fuel filter (O.E. Yamaha Filters)
11/3/2024 – 7,861 – Oil Change (Lucas Synthetic 20W50)
7/11/2025 – 8,028 – New petcock seals (O.E. Yamaha parts)
7/24/2025 – 8,028 – New Yuasa battery”
Modifications:
“The only non-stock components are a Denali Soundbomb horn and upgraded headlight bulbs. O.E. parts included in sale.”
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop Sportmax Q3+ tires with date codes of 0718 and 1320.
The sale includes two keys, owner’s manual, service manual, tank protector, passenger seat, and a few various parts.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“A few very minor dings and scratches, very minimal, except for an inch-long tie-down rash on the left fairing edge where someone improperly tied it down for transport (it has been touched up). Other than that, it is almost museum quality. All flaws documented in detailed photographs.”
Currently located in Superior, Montana this Yamaha is offered on a clean Montana title. Have any R1 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
