Motorcycle specifications Yamaha YZF-R1 1000 SP 2006 Special Performance

how do you rework a machine as accomplished and beautiful as the R1 without offending its much-admired lines? Yamaha couldn't, and concentrated on developing the mechanical and technical aspects. Alongside the 2006 version, Yamaha will be offering 2 special series of its hypersport: a version with a"Racing 80s" deco and this limited edition SP. With this edition, we've gone beyond the stage of a fantasy that only 500 privileged people will be able to afford. Yam's most recent fantasy was the YZF 750 SP, based on the R version - and that was almost 15 years ago...

this R1 benefits from even more advanced development than the 2006 model, and more importantly than the 3 hp gained from the engine, the machine is equipped with Öhlins suspension specially developed for it. The fork can be adjusted in all directions, with a host of possibilities, as can the rear shock absorber. The rear suspension features a system that allows the R1 SP's ride height to be adjusted by 10 mm. Exclusive to the SP, the clutch houses an anti-dribble system that limits the torque effect during deceleration.
The golden rims are signed by the famous manufacturer Marchesini. Lighter by 400g than the standard R1, their design is modelled on that of MotoGP's YZR-M1s.
For a touch of fun, the exhaust tips are also gold, contrasting with the black hue that goes so well with this extreme R1 series.
And as a touch of nobility, the bike comes with a small plate engraved with the serial number of the machine, to remind you (if it's possible to forget) that you own an exceptional machine.

That's not to say that riding one will radically change everything you already know. Don't be so simplistic...
The R1 is well known: highly efficient, more than beautiful, less radical than in the past... the2006 evolution, from which this SP is derived, has been carried out gently, in small steps that only experts will be able to fully appreciate. This in no way detracts from the generous aura that continues to haunt the racetrack.

would 3 extra hp in the mill, i.e. less than 2% more power, be enough to feel a real difference in the guts of this excellent distiller?
Do we really need to mention the shortcomings? OK, you can barely fit a toothpick under the passenger seat, purists who drool over Öhlins suspension will regret that the steering damper isn't from the same manufacturer, and as far as duals go, we've rarely seen worse. EH! We're not done bitching yet! Would we spend our time criticizing Claudia Schiffer if we managed to get her into bed?! Of course not; we'd have the time of our lives, just like with MS.

r1 was a young teenager full of punch and joie de vivre when we all discovered her on her first outing in 1998. Today, this bubbly little girl wears ballroom shoes instead of sneakers. She's become a grand dame of grace and sensuality, an ambassador of performance and bliss. Be human: you can freak out!

M.B
(manufacturer's photos)