It might be more likely to see a herd of unicorns than to spot this epic Yamaha on a racetrack, but it did run at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this summer. Offered by RSBFS friends over at Iconic Motorbikes, this ’96 team bike was owned by Kenny Roberts Sr. until a few years ago and ridden by his son in 1996.
1996 Yamaha YZR500 OWJ1 for sale at Iconic Motorbikes
Spanning multiple eras, Yamaha raced the YZR500 from 1973 to the end of the two-stroke rules in 2002. Though Honda was mid-way through a six year romp in 1996, the YZR500 won a shy dozen championships – 1978-80 with KRSr aboard. For ’96 the V4 returned to the square 54mm bore and stroke, with powder-forged pistons, ram air intakes, carbon brakes and reporting 180 hp. The new chassis did away with the seat subframe, using a self-supporting carbon seat.
Under a collector’s care the bike was evidently re-furbished at RMD Motors, who reported suspension and engine work, and more in the Robb Report feature. The 2022 Goodwood spectacular featured a parade of legendary machines and riders, with Senior taking the OWJ1 up the hill. Iconic recently had the bodywork off to look after the water pump, and posted a video with some run-time – here -.
Roberts Jr. is on the windscreen, but the almost show-bike state says spare bike rather than race-after-race used. Yamaha at least achieved ground for acquittal, with teammate Norifumi Abe winning the Suzuka round and three podiums beside. Along with the condition, Team Roberts ownership, signatures and factory provenance will make this YZR a winner long term. Still three days to run for this auction, check back – here – and see if the reserve is challenged.
-donn
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