Lot details
Registration No: Un-Reg
Frame No: SA8-003712
Engine No: SA8-003712
MOT Expiry Date: None

Yamaha entered the 1980s with the stated intent of increasing its market share at the expense of Honda. A result of this policy was the announcement of a number of new models developed to address (perceived) niches in the market. The TR1, unveiled to the public at the 1980 Cologne Show was one such machine. The model was conceived as a touring motorcycle of comparatively light weight, with good fuel economy and low maintenance costs. These factors influenced the choice of a vee twin engine mounted longitudinally in the frame. The twin cylinder, 75-degree overhead cam engine was mechanically simple and its orientation enabled chain final drive to be employed, both factors in keeping production costs low, whilst the power characteristics of the type were well suited to the machine's intended role. The TR1 dispensed with a traditional frame, instead using the engine as a stressed member to which frame components were mounted, in a similar manner to that employed by the illustrious Vincent Rapide. Attention had been paid to minimising servicing costs, hence the engine did not need to be removed from the frame for major overhauls, the chain final drive was fully enclosed and fully transitorised pointless ignition was employed. Although well received by the press the machine did not sell in significant numbers, in part because it lacked a clear identity. The mechanical specification suggested a cruiser in the style of a Harley with better performance but the machine's styling did not endear it to that market sector. Consequently production ceased during 1982 although the model continued to be listed into 1983. While the TR1 was not a significant sales success in its original form, it is an important machine in Yamaha's history forming as it did the basis for the subsequent successful Harleyesque Virago models.

The example offered, finished in deep metallic green, is offered in "new unused" condition with only 2 kilometres recorded on the odometer and is accompanied by a German registration document.