Moto-Collectible: the Exotic R1

MOTO-COLLECTIBLE: THE EXOTIC R1

The first tip that this is not your run-of-the-mill Yamaha YZF-R1 are the gold-anodized, forgedaluminum Marchesini wheels. Add to this fully adjustable Ohlins suspension and racing-inspired slipper clutch. And while it's true these items separate the YZF-R1 Limited Edition from the standard R1 better than any plaque could, you still get one that desianates the bike as one of only 500.

Of course, the LE benef its from the same improvements that the standard Ri gets for 2006, including a more rigid chassis, longer swingarm, improved gearbox and a handlebar-mounted lap-timer trigger. Both versions are available in the 50th-anniversary bumblebee paint scheme. With so few LEs coming to the States, expect them to sell out in a hurry, even with an MSRP likely to be in excess of $15,000.

Calvin Kim