Track-spec Yamaha R1 expected in 2014?

Yamaha seems to be brewing something along the lines of the Honda Fireblade SP after its move to trademark the ‘R1M’ and ‘R1S’ names in Europe, USA and Australia. The Fireblade SP is essentially a higher-spec version of Honda’s flagship superbike.

[caption id=”attachment_2324" align=”alignnone” width=”620"]

Track-Spec versions like the Ducati Panigale R, BMW HP4, Honda Fireblade R and Aprilia RSV4 Factory are highly sought after.[/caption]

Going by these trademark applications, we might see two new upgraded models based on the R1 in 2014. Reports suggest an updated model of the Yamaha R1 is expected this year with the addition of two new high-spec versions, with a probable reveal at this years EICMA.

[caption id=”” align=”alignnone” width=”620"]

The Desmosedici RR is essentially Ducati’s Moto GP bike for the street[/caption]

Yamaha too seems to be intrigued by the idea of multiple variants of its sportsbikes, specifically track-focused bikes with Moto GP derived tech and trick bits. Yamaha’s storied R1 has lost some sheen in recent years, often testing slower and heavier than its counterparts from Honda, Kawasaki and Suzuki. Track-spec versions of road going bikes are highly sought after, especially in Europe with prime examples like the Ducati Panigale R, Aprilia RSV4 Factory and BMW HP4. We expect the Yamaha specials to follow in their footsteps, perhaps re-igniting some interest in the iconic R1.

[caption id=”attachment_2318" align=”alignnone” width=”620"]

The 2014 Yamaha YZF-R1[/caption]