- Yamaha R1 completing 25 years in 2023
- Speculated to get commemorative updates
- Could get aerodynamic winglets
The Yamaha R1 is undoubtedly one of the most revered motorcycle names globally and will complete its 25 years of existence next year. So, how does Yamaha plan to celebrate the occasion? An online rumour suggests that the Japanese bike maker will be rolling out a majorly overhauled version of the R1 next year to commemorate the bike’s 25th anniversary.
The updates it’s speculated to get will make the motorcycle aerodynamically more efficient, thereby making it faster and more stable. Allegedly, Yamaha will achieve this by bestowing the R1 with aerodynamic winglets on its fairing. Moreover, the 998cc bi-crossplane engine of the bike is also expected to receive some performance-oriented internal tweaks. The motor on the existing trim makes around 200bhp at 13,500rpm and 112.4Nm at 11,500rpm.
The source of the rumour also released a render of the next-generation R1 which looks stunning. Apart from the winglets on its nose fairing, the render also shows the bike adorning Yamaha’s retro-styled red and white paint scheme. Notably, these changes might also be featured on the brand’s 2023 WorldSBK Championship machine.
Now, even if Yamaha globally introduces the aforementioned updated R1, its entry into the Indian market is uncertain as of now.