No Reserve – 1991 Yamaha R1-Z Project

Description

Additional photos of this Yamaha R1-Z Project are available here for your perusal.

Two-stroke lovers, rejoice! The Yamaha R1-Z was exclusively offered in Japan and was only sold for just two years (1990-1991) – it’s a very rare find in the US. The trellis frame looks great, and we love the “Individual Sports” and “2 Cycle Parallel Twin 249” stickers on the tank and tail.

The retuned TZR250 motor (which was also very similar to the engine in the TDR250) produces 44 (restricted) horsepower at 9,500 rpm and 27 pound-feet of torque at 8,500 rpm.

Triple disc brakes reined in that power quite easily thanks to the weight of just 293 pounds.

This example is VIN: 3XC030504, Engine #: 3XC.

The odometer shows 16,386 kilometers (10,181 miles).

The owner imported this bike from Japan several years ago with the intent of reselling it in the US. He had it running and for sale at the 2019 Barber Vintage Festival. It did not sell there, and due to COVID the bike has been in storage since. At a minimum, it will need a new battery and the carbs cleaned to run. To ride, it would likely also need a full fluid flush and new tires. We have not inspected it.

The seller notes that the engine seized at some point in the past but it is free now. The sale includes a “complete good spare engine just in case the original is in need of a rebuild.”

Modifications:
This R1-Z appears to be stock.

Inside of the tank:

It is riding on Dunlop TT900 tires with date codes of 2718 and 3718.

The sale includes 1 key.

Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Dent in the rim.

Currently located at our facility in Santa Monica, California (please make an appointment for an inspection), this Yamaha is offered on a Bill of Sale with a Japanese title (translated) and Certificate of Export. Iconic’s White Glove service is able to assist in getting a US (Oregon) title, which will be transferrable into most states (not California). Have any R1-Z stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!