More New Yamahas

Yamaha is also introducing the new R1 LE (Limited Edition) for 2006, which isn't just a fancy paint job with a few extra stickers thrown on it. The new R1 LE features a host of performance upgrades aimed to increase the handling and improve the bike's ability to get around a racetrack.

The bike features a back torque-limiting slipper clutch for the first time, which will make the units eligible in Superstock competition. Forged aluminum gold Marchesini wheels are not only very strong but lighter as well. The rear suspension features an adjustable bottom link and an Öhlins custom-valved fully adjustable rear shock with hydraulic preload adjuster and high and low-speed compression damping adjustment. The front fork is a 43mm Öhlins custom-valved fully adjustable inverted fork with high and low-speed compression damping adjustment. The R1 LE features Yamaha 50th Anniversary Yellow/Black paint with special trim and badging in addition to a gold chain, exhaust covers and tank emblems. Pirelli Diablo Corsa tires will come standard on the LE.

FZ1

The FZ1 is brand new as and is not only completely updated aesthetically, but mechanically as well. A current-generation fuel-injected R1 engine tuned for the real world sits low and forward in an all-new, aluminum frame with a longer, Controlled Fill Diecast swingarm. The new FZ1 is a focused, more aggressive high-performance motorcycle in a smaller, tighter package.

The motor features fuel injection with servo-driven secondary throttle valves, while the exhaust system features a four-into-one exhaust with an EXUP valve. The frame is an all-new aluminum unit with a 43mm inverted front fork with compression damping adjustment handled in the left-leg, and the right-leg handling rebound adjustment. An aluminum swingarm and single rear shock take care of rear suspension duties. The FZ1's wheelbase is slightly longer at 58.4-inches compared to 57.1 on the previous generation, but it has steeper rake (25-degrees) and slightly more trail (109 to 104mm). Seat height it slightly higher up a third of an inch. Braking is handled by dual 320mm front discs with four-piston calipers, while a 245mm disc handles braking out back. The FZ1 will be available in red and silver colors.