Yamaha YZR-M1

The Yamaha YZR-M1 50th Anniversary U.S Edition features the distinctive yellow and black strobe pattern of the Yamaha International Corporation. Kenny Robert"s YZR500, which won three consecutive 500cc Grand Prixs featured this color scheme in 1978. The Gauloises Team Yamaha riders Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards rode this special edition bike in the 2005 MotoGP Round 8, U.S. Grand Prix. American driver, Edwards, took a 2nd place finish, while Rossi placed 3rd. In 2005, Rossi claimed the Riders Championship. The YZR-M1 underwent drastic improvements and modification, in 2005. The engine was improved to feature a 4 stroke in-line 4 cylinder 990cc engine, which improved top speed and fuel efficiency. The fuel tank was mounted lower and the rear shocks attached directly to the crankcase to create optimum weight concentration in the center of the bike. Other improvements included shock absorbing capabilities, refined brakes and torque control systems.