Yamaha has responded to recent rumors suggesting that the Yamaha R1 won't receive Euro5+ homologation, potentially signaling the end of the liter-class superbike. In a press release, Yamaha stated its commitment to racing the R1 but raised doubts about the future of the road version.
Yamaha acknowledged the R1's popularity as a platform for racing, from amateur to World Superbike levels. The R1's homologation eligibility is valid until 2028, indicating that a replacement model may not be expected until around that time, unless an extension is granted.
However, the press release mentioned that from 2025, due to the challenge of meeting Euro5+ homologation requirements, the R1 will be offered with specifications exclusively for track use, similar to what was done with the R6 previously.
Yamaha discontinued the R6 after the 2020 model year, making it available only as a track-only model due to Euro5 compliance. It seems that the R1 may follow the same path, at least in terms of being available for road use. Notably, the track-only availability of the R1 from 2025 applies only in the European market. In the United States, the R1 will continue to be sold through dealerships.
To balance emissions compliance and profitability, Yamaha has heavily invested in GYTR accessories for the R1 to make it competitive in national and international competitions. This move allows Yamaha to avoid the need for stricter emissions standards while still benefiting from the R1's profitability.
However, this press release does not provide a definitive path for Yamaha's street-legal sportbikes. Given Yamaha's involvement in World Superbike and MotoGP, it is unlikely that the company will completely withdraw from the sportbike segment. There may still be the possibility of an updated R1 or a new model, such as the rumored R9. Only time will tell, and further updates will be provided when available.
Yamaha remains committed to racing the R1 in premier production race classes globally, including the FIM Superbike and Endurance World Championships. The company will continue global production of the R1 and its development program, which has already earned world titles in both WorldSBK and EWC. The R1 continues to be a popular choice for teams and individuals seeking a competitive and cost-effective race package or an enhanced track experience.
To support customers, Yamaha has invested in providing a range of GYTR performance parts for the R1, leveraging the expertise of engineers who developed the R1 WorldSBK bike ridden by six-time Superbike World Champion, Jonathan Rea. Yamaha has also established GYTR PRO Shops across Europe to share racing knowledge and experience with customers.
Yamaha assures that the R1 remains a proven race-winning package, and the company is committed to its future success in national and international competitions.