From pianos to 7.1 channel stereo systems to motorcycles, the three tuning forks that is Yamaha has offered a premium and unique sound to the world. Yamaha has prided itself on the concept that sound is an integral part of motorcycling, and what better way to showcase this than with the YZF-R1 and YZF-R6.
There’s nothing crazy new to expect from Yamaha in 2010. Last year was such a great year for the Japanese brand, that perfecting their ‘09 designs is a better strategy than risking a flop with new concepts and designs.
The newly developed R1 for 2009 was phenomenal, in fact it was such a great piece of motorcycle engineering that Motorcyclist Magazine bestowed the R1 with 2009’s Motorcycle of the Year. Back in high school, I dreamed of having an ‘06 or ‘07 R1. When the 2009 rendition was released, my love for the big Jap-bike became a bittersweet distaste. Performance: brilliant. Design: hideous. I have a great deal of respect for the once beautiful R1, but at times I can’t stomach looking at it*.
A face only a mother could love
Maybe the 2010 YZF-R1 LE’s (limited edition) graphics will break up the excessive bulk of the bike. The 2010 R1 LE will be dressed in Fiat Yamaha Moto-GP team livery, which includes sponsor logos and Valentino Rossi’s “46″ and “The Doctor” decals. Aside from the loud paint job, the R1 LE and stock model are identical. In previous years, the LE has been offered with upgraded suspension and wheels, but this resulted in a heavier price tag. For Bren and Sven specs for the R1 click here.
Sorry, flag girls not included
The R1’s little sibling, the YZF-R6 has some updates for 2010. Critics of the 2009 model felt that it lacked the oomph from previous models because of restrictive regulations. Now the little 600 gets a new and longer muffler (only by 100mm) and a remapped ECU, to bring back any lost performance. For Bren and Sven specs click here.
Straights are fine, but it yearns for the twisties
Yamaha made a smart choice, to just improve upon their already great designs. And with Valentino “The Doctor” Rossi on their side, Yamaha shouldn’t have any issues in marketing their sportbikes. The designs of both bikes are fairly young, so a complete overhaul might not be happening anytime in the next year or so. So if you feel the same way I do about the R1 just cross your fingers and hope for the best, that one day the butter-face will get a make over*. And remember, keep the paint up and the rubber down.
Look for us next week as we debut BMW’s newest additions for 2010.
*All comments about the hideousness of the R1 are solely the opinions of Sven. Do not let Sven’s bashing of the R1 dictate your consideration of purchasing this piece of performance perfection (unless you share his same thoughts).
Check out the other articles in the New for 2010 series:
Aprilia BMW Ducati Honda Kawasaki Suzuki Triumph Yamaha
