Ben Spies on 1,000cc

“Switching from an 800 to a 1,000cc Yamaha is just like riding a big v-twin compared to an inline-four,” describes factory Yamaha rider Ben Spies. “It feels slower and smoother, but they’ve got so much more torque that it ends … Continued

Jamie Robinson does the Elsinore Grand Prix

I’ve wanted to race the Elsinore Grand Prix ever since I watched Steve McQueen and Malcolm Smith blasting on and around the streets of Elsinore, California in the ’70s movie On any Sunday. So, when I found out there was … Continued

Yamaha XTW250 Ryoku: 21st century adventure

This is the first ADV-style motorcycle to successfully break the GS mold, striking out with design and mechanical configuration all its own. One part Lego and one part Tonka truck, Yamaha describes the Ryoku as “a reliable tool for people … Continued

Yamaha Y125 Moegi: a bicycle with an engine?

Of all the new concepts being debuted at the Tokyo Motor Show today, it’s this Yamaha Y125 Moegi that’s drawn the most interest from our friends and readers. Why? It’s probably got something to do with the inherent conservatism of … Continued

Can traction control tame the 2012 Yamaha R1?

The 2012 Yamaha R1’s been updated with the addition of traction control, smoother fueling and a new rear shock, all in the name of making the 180bhp superbike more exploitable. Who’s more qualified to judge the effectiveness of those improvements … Continued

2012 Yamaha TMAX: a commuter, refreshed

2012 is shaping up to be a big year for maxi scooters. Even while BMW plans to unveil two new bikes based on last year’s Concept C and Honda looks to be replacing the Silverwing with a 17-inch wheel, DCT, … Continued