The Remarkable History of Yamaha

When it comes to dependability, Yamaha tops the list of the most reliable motorcycle brands, having the lowest failure rate of only 11%. Like most notable Japanese motorcycle brands, Yamaha also did not begin with manufacturing motorcycles. However, it has become one of the most versatile motorcycle manufacturers with its diversified range of lineups, including sports bikes, naked bikes, cruisers, performance cruisers, adventure bikes, dual sports, and scooters. Along with superior-quality motorcycles, Yamaha also specializes in producing ATVs, snowmobiles, and recreational vehicles. Along with establishing a successful motorcycle and automobile manufacturing subsidiary, Yamaha Corporation, the parent company is also one of the leading audio equipment and musical instrument manufacturers in the world. Read this article to learn about the remarkable history of Yamaha.

In 1987, Torakusu Yamaha, the founder of the Nippon Gakki Company (later named Yamaha Corporation) started a reed organ manufacturing company.

In 1900, Yamaha started producing pianos which became a trademark of the company. Even today, the company’s logo reflects Yamaha’s origin and background with three interlocking tuning forks.

After World War II, Genichi Kawakami, the president of Yamaha Corporation at that time, decided to step into motorcycle manufacturing, considering the company’s expertise in metallurgy and the post-war machinery remains. In 1954, the company produced the Yamaha YA-1, also known as the Red Dragonfly (In Japanese: Akatombo). It was fitted with a 125 cc single-cylinder engine.

The idea was originally copied from the German motorcycle, the DKW RT 125, in the post-war era. Birmingham Small Arms Company Ltd (BSA), the British motorcycle company, also took inspiration from the DKW RT 125 and produced the BSA Bantam. Similarly, Harley Davidson produced the Hummer.

The Yamaha YA-1 became an immediate success in the motorcycle world and established the brand’s reputation as one of the emerging motorcycle manufacturers. In 1995, the Yamaha YA-1 won the third Mount Fuji Ascent Race in the 125 cc category. In the same year, Yamaha also secured the first three positions in the all-Japanese Autobike Endurance Road Race Competition with the Yamaha YA-1.

Despite producing only 125 units of the Yamaha YA-1 in the first year, it gained rapid recognition in the motorcycling world, and as a result, the company decided to establish Yamaha Motor Company in 1955. Initially, Yamaha Motor Co. kept working as a subsidiary of the parent company. However, it eventually became independent and separated its operations and manufacturing. Despite this development, the Yamaha Corporation still has the most shares (9.92%) of Yamaha Motors Co. Yamaha Motors has become so huge that it also has more than 109 divisions that handle marketing, manufacturing, and development processes.

Yamaha was confident with the performance of the Yamaha YA-1 and decided to participate in international racing. The Yamaha YA-1 secured sixth place in the 1956 Catalina Grand Prix.

In 1957, the updated version of the Yamaha YA-1, the Yamaha YA-2 was introduced. It received the same 125 cc single-cylinder engine, however, the suspension and frame were improved.

Another upgraded model, the Yamaha YD-1 with a larger engine was introduced in the same year. It received a 250 cc twin-cylinder engine. However, the frame and other parts were taken from the Yamaha YA-2.

Another upgraded version of the Yamaha YD-1 was introduced which was powered by a 250 cc twin-cylinder engine. Other modifications that were made to this motorcycle included a five-speed transmission and a downtube cradle frame.

Yamaha’s growth and success continued further up with the first international win at the Belgian GP in the 250 cc category.

Along with the success in the motorcycle racing world, the sales were growing exponentially too. Yamaha decided to expand to other countries by establishing its subsidiaries. In 1964, the company opened its subsidiary in Thailand.

The Yamaha YA-6 was the first motorcycle to receive the 125 cc two-stroke auto-lube engine, which did not require the rider to premix the oil and gas while fueling the motorcycle.

In 1965, Yamaha won the World Grand Prix and Manufacturer title thanks to Phil Read, who joined Yamaha to participate in the Isle of Man TT.

Phil Read also made Yamaha win the 1965 World GP title.

In 1965, Yamaha introduced a larger 305 cc two-stroke twin-cylinder engine. This engine was an improved version of the previous two-stroke engines as it was incorporated with oil lines to mix oil and gasoline before the combustion cycle. In previous two-stroke engines, the rider had to manually mix the gasoline and oil while fueling the motorcycle.

In 1967, Yamaha introduced a new model, the Yamaha R1, powered by an upgraded 250 cc two-stroke, twin-cylinder engine.

In 1968, Yamaha opened its subsidiary in the Netherlands.

In 1968, Yamaha also launched the XS-1 model, powered by a 650 cc four-stroke twin-cylinder engine. It was a powerful machine and gave good competition to the popular British motorcycles, including the BSA Gold Star and the Triumph Bonneville.

The competition with the other Japanese motorcycle manufacturers, including Honda, Suzuki, and Kawasaki was increasing at that time and the majority of them were focusing on four-stroke engines. However, Yamaha continued producing both two-stroke and four-stroke engines.

In 1968, Yamaha introduced another classic motorcycle, the Yamaha DT-1. With this motorcycle, Yamaha stepped into off-road two-wheeler manufacturing. It was an old-school dual-sports bike with both on-road and off-road capabilities, enhanced by its knobby tires, slim and lightweight design, and high ground clearance. The company made a huge impact in off-road motorcycle manufacturing, especially in the U.S. due to being truly dirt-worthy. The Yamaha DT-1 was powered by a 250 cc two-stroke, single-cylinder engine.

In 1969, Yamaha successfully designed and included the reed valve induction technology in its motorcycles to make the two-stroke engine motorcycles perform better. The reed valves were installed in the engine to effectively control the air-fuel mixture. Yamaha introduced several RD and RS models, where “R” stands for Reed-Valved, “D” stands for Dual (Twin-Cylinder), and “S” stands for Single-Cylinder engine.

In the 1970s, Yamaha started experimenting with off-road motorcycles to design better dirt bikes for endurance racing.

Yamaha also produced several mopeds, including the Yamaha FS1 in the 1970s. It includes both the engine-powered rear wheel and cycling pedals.

In 1971, Yamaha launched a small-sized dirt-worthy motorcycle, the Yamaha Mini Enduro. It received the 60 cc two-stroke engine, knobby tires, and skinny design.

In 1972, Yamaha introduced the first reed-valved motorcycle, equipped with a CDI ignition, Yamaha’s auto lube system, and a 250 cc engine. It was an ideal off-road motorcycle due to being fitted with knobby tires, spoke wheels, high ground clearance, taller front forks, and a narrow design.

In 1973, Yamaha was successful in producing dirt bikes with a single rear suspension, known as the monoshock.

Yamaha continued producing motorcycles with two-stroke engine technology and in 1974, another 250 cc two-stroke, single-cylinder motorcycle, the Yamaha TY-250 was introduced. It was a trial motorbike, capable of showing extreme trial stunts on challenging terrains.

In 1974, Yamaha manufactured another noteworthy motorcycle, the Yamaha TZ-700 capable of road racing. It was powered by a 694 cc two-stroke, four-cylinder engine capable of delivering a horsepower of 90 hp.

In 1975, the Yamaha TZ-700’s engine was upgraded to become the Yamaha TZ-750. The increase in the size of the engine resulted in an increase in horsepower by 15 hp.

In 1975, Yamaha successfully installed its monoshock technology on a newly-produced dirt bike, the Yamaha YZ-250. This motorcycle is still in production and is one of the very few motorcycles with the longest production run.

In 1975, Yamaha had another successful year as Giacomo Agostini won the MotoGP World Champion Title for Yamaha in the 500 cc category.

In 1979, Yamaha launched a mid-size cruiser with a classic design, known as the Yamaha XS650. The basic model was produced by the company in 1969. However, the Yamaha XS650 received the “Special” moniker, depicting its high-class cruiser performance and look. It was powered by a 654 cc four-stroke, parallel-twin engine capable of delivering a horsepower of 53 hp. It was an agile cruiser with the capability to attain a top speed of 105 mph. The Yamaha XS650 Special is one of the most ideally-designed cruisers with an impeccable fit and finish.

In 1978, Yamaha introduced its first four-cylinder motorcycle, the Yamaha XS-1100. The 1,101 cc engine was capable of delivering an impressive horsepower of 95 hp and a torque of 90.2 Nm. It was a heavyweight touring bike, driven by shaft drive. However, it still showed top-class endurance performance and won several races. The Yamaha XS1100 (XS Eleven) was also known as the king of horsepower of the 1970s.

The Yamaha XV1000 SE Midnight Special is one of the most aesthetically appealing cruisers ever produced by Yamaha. It received several styling elements and a flawless fit and finish. As the name suggests, the Yamaha Midnight Special was available in a black finish with only a few chrome parts. It was powered by a 1,102 cc four-stroke, four-cylinder engine capable of a torque of 90 Nm at 6,500 rpm. The Yamaha Midnight Special was fitted with a step-up single-piece saddle for two-up riding and high-mounted, pulled-back handlebars for a comfortable riding experience.

In 1981, Yamaha launched the PW50 motorcycle which is a small-sized dirt bike designed for kids, powered by a 500 cc engine derived from the Yamahascooter.

The Yamaha Venture Royale was introduced in 1983 to capture the touring bike market. It was a high-end, high-performance touring bike, powered by a 1,198 cc engine. The Yamaha Venture Royale was the first Yamaha motorcycle to receive the liquid-cooled, four-stroke, V4 engine and adjustable air suspension. It came with several standard touring parts, including a large front fairing, windshield, hard saddlebags, and a motorcycle trunk with an integrated backseat.

In 1984, Yamaha launched another supersports bike, the Yamaha FJ1100, powered by a 1,098 cc transverse four-cylinder engine capable of generating 125 hp of horsepower. This motorcycle was one of the fastest sports bikes of the 1980s with a top speed of 164 mph.

1985 was another successful year for Yamaha as it launched one of the world’s most powerful and fastest performance cruisers, the Yamaha V-Max. Powered by a 1,198 cc V4 engine, the V-Max was capable of delivering a horsepower of 145 hp and a torque of 112 Nm. This motorcycle could attain a top speed of 146 mph.

Apart from the unmatchable performance, the Yamaha VMax is also one of the most appealing cruisers ever produced with both classic and modern looks.

In 1993, Yamaha produced the GTS1000 motorcycle, a true engineering marvel of the 1990s. It is a sports-touring bike powered by a water-cooled inline four-cylinder engine capable of delivering a horsepower of 102 hp and a torque of 106 Nm. The Yamaha GTS was Yamaha’s first motorcycle to receive a fuel-injected system and catalytic converter in the exhaust system. It also featured a forkless front suspension, specially designed by James Parker, the creator of the RADD suspension system.

The Yamaha Royal Star was introduced in 1996, powered by a 1,294 cc V4 engine. The V4 engine was derived from the Yamaha Venture Royale. It was a heavyweight traditional cruiser with authentic American styling. The Yamaha Royal Star was the first model in the Star lineup.

In 1998, Yamaha redesigned its Genesis engine to make it lightweight and compact to install on the Yamaha YZF-R1, the legendary sports bike. It was fitted with a 998 cc transverse four-cylinder engine capable of delivering an impressive horsepower of 148.8 hp.

In 1999, Yamaha introduced another Star model in the mid-size category, powered by a powerful 1,602 cc 48° V-Twin engine. It was an ideal cruiser motorcycle with a long wheelbase of 66.3 inches and a low seat height of 28 inches. The Yamaha Road Star was Yamaha’s first motorcycle with a belt-driven rear wheel.

In 2000, the focus was to include all types of riders, including the young and beginners, and to produce the best off-road motorcycles. Yamaha introduced the TT-R125L dirt bike to young off-road enthusiasts. The introduction of this motorcycle made Yamaha a serious contender in the dirt bike category.

The Yamaha MT-01 is a lesser-known motorcycle in the U.S. as Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S. decided not to import this model due to the small market for such a style of motorcycle. This motorcycle is a well-designed machine as it has both a cruiser-style V-Twin engine and a sports bike-inspired frame and bodywork. Powered by a 1,670 cc engine capable of delivering an impressive torque of 150.3 Nm. The Yamaha MT-01 had a futuristic look with a unique fuel tank design. It could attain a top speed of 130 mph.

In 2006, Yamaha successfully manufactured the first motorcycle with a fly-by-wire throttle, replacing conventional throttle cables thanks to continuous research and development. This gave birth to the Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) technology that was later installed in several other technologically advanced Yamaha models.

In 2006, Yamaha introduced a high-powered large-sized cruiser, featuring a 1,854 cc fuel-injected, V-Twin engine capable of delivering a horsepower of 98.6 hp and an enormous torque of 166.7 Nm. Despite being a heavyweight cruiser, it received a specially designed aluminum frame to ensure ideal handling.

As the technology was getting advanced over time, Yamaha was also working tirelessly to bring more innovations in its production. As a result, Yamaha introduced the remarkable Yamaha YZF-R1 sports bike, featuring a Yamaha Chip Controlled Intake (YCC-I) technology for extreme racing capabilities and impressive powerband. Powered by a 998 cc transverse four-cylinder engine, the Yamaha YZF-R1 was capable of delivering an impressive horsepower of 180 hp.

The original 1985 Yamaha V-Max was reintroduced in 2010 after several upgrades and advancements. A large-sized, 1,679 cc V4 engine was installed, capable of producing an enormous horsepower of 200 hp and a torque of 166.8 Nm, making it the fastest cruiser ever made. Despite being an old model, the Yamaha V-Max can give good competition to high-end modern cruisers of current times.

In 2010, Yamaha also started producing its legendary adventure touring bike, the Yamaha Super Tenere which is still being produced. Like most adventure touring bikes, it is also powered by a 1,199 cc parallel-twin engine. The Yamaha Super Tenere was a technologically advanced motorcycle, equipped with ABS, traction control, electronic throttle control, combined braking system (CBS), and engine mapping.

In 2013, the Yamaha FJR1300A received several high-end modern features, including better aerodynamics for better airflow, a traction control system, electronic cruise control, electronically adjustable suspension, and an adjustable windshield.

In 2014, Yamaha released a simple, lightweight, and slim cruiser with a matte-black finish. It is an ideal cruiser for young and inexperienced riders. The narrow and minimalist design ensures nimble handling, ideal for beginners.

The traditional trikes (Three-Wheeled Motorcycles) are not capable of leaning and tilting to a certain angle while turning a corner like two-wheel motorcycles. However, in 2014, Yamaha produced another engineering marvel, the Yamaha Tricity, which is a leaning three-wheel scooter.

Introduced in 2015, the Yamaha YZF-R1M is one of the most technologically advanced motorcycles with several rider aids and engine performance enhancers. The 998 cc engine is capable of delivering a horsepower of 197.26 hp, ensuring an unmatched road-racing performance. The Yamaha YZF-R1M is fitted with fully adjustable KYB front forks and Öhlins electronic rear suspension to ensure a comfortable riding experience.

In 2016, Yamaha launched one of the most popular naked motorcycles around the world, the Yamaha MT-09, also known as FZ-09 in certain markets. It is one of the most agile and nimble motorcycles, popular among stunt riders. The lightweight frame and chassis and slim design ensure superior handling.

In 2016, Yamaha launched the XSR900, a retro naked-style standard bike powered by an 847 cc inline three-cylinder engine capable of a horsepower of 115 hp. This motorcycle proved to be one of the best motorcycles in terms of design and performance and won several awards, including the 2016 Good Design Award and the 2016 Best Middleweight Street Bike.

The Yamaha SCR is an amazingly built scrambler with both retro-styling and modern technology. It is ideal for smooth on-road performance and light off-road riding. The Yamaha SCR is powered by a 942 cc, transverse V-Twin engine.

Another pinnacle of modern technology, the Yamaha Niken, was released in 2018 after being displayed at the 2015 Tokyo Motor Show as a concept bike. It is a leaning three-wheeled motorcycle equipped with several modern rider aids, including an ABS, electric throttle, cruise control, traction control, quick shift system (QSS), and assist & slipper clutch.

To compete with the Honda Gold Wing, the BMW K1600 series, and other notable touring bikes, Yamaha brought back its touring bikes with modern capabilities and bagger styling. The Yamaha Star Venture was introduced in 2018. It is a large-size bagger, fitted with a shark-nose fairing, windshield, floorboards, saddlebags, storage compartments, and a trunk with an integrated sofa-like seat for the passenger for an ultimate touring experience.

To pay tribute to one of Yamaha’s legendary machines, the Yamaha YZF-R1, the company released the 20th Anniversary model, called the Yamaha YZF-R1 GYTR. This motorcycle is a high-end race track-only sports bike inspired by MotoGP super sports bikes. The GYTR stands for Genuine Yamaha Track Racing as it is specially designed at the Yamaha R&D center. Every part of the Yamaha YZF-R1 GYTR is carefully designed for ultimate track-racing performance. This race-inspired motorbike is powered by a 998 cc CP4 (Cross-Plane Four-Cylinder Engine). The CP4 engine provides uneven firing patterns, ensuring unmatched linear performance and extraordinary rear-wheel traction.

In 2021, the third-generation Yamaha Tracer 9 and Tracer 9 GT were introduced after receiving several upgrades. It was completely re-engineered for improved performance. The Yamaha Tracer 9 uses the same engine that powers the Yamaha MT-09. The 2021 model received a large engine to increase the horsepower. The 850 cc engine was replaced with a more powerful 889 cc inline three-cylinder engine capable of a horsepower of 115 hp and a torque of 93.55 Nm. For a comfortable long-distance riding experience, the Yamaha Tracer 9 is fitted with a large fuel tank, TFT display, cruise control, hand guards, heated grips, and cornering ABS.

As of today, Yamaha Motor Co. produces a variety of motorized products or vehicles, including motorbikes, sailboats, Jet Skis, snowmobiles, vehicle engines, unmanned helicopters, generators, water pumps, recreational vehicles, and ATVs. The company has also expanded its operation in the hospitality and tourism sectors. Yamaha is leading the best-seller brands regarding water vehicle sales and the second largest producer and seller of motorcycles in the world.

Video Credit: @MotorcycleDiaries

Yamaha is a pioneer motorcycle technology manufacturer. The company began its journey by producing audio equipment and musical instruments. It went on to produce several other heavy machinery, including automobile engines, power plants, aircraft equipment, snowmobiles, and other vehicles. In 1955, the company established a subsidiary, Yamaha Motors Corp. dedicated to producing quality motorcycles. Since 1955, Yamaha has constantly produced top-class and high-performance motorcycles year after year. Yamaha’s R&D center is considered one of the most advanced technical labs where the concepts are put to experimentation, and then executed. The continuous upgrades in technology, features, and engineering have helped Yamaha reach the pinnacle of the motorcycling world while topping the list of most reliable motorcycle brands with the lowest failure rate.

Being the most dependable motorcycle brand, Yamaha motorcycles are ideal for motorcycle touring and long-distance rides. They last longer and do not require frequent maintenance and repair. Viking Bags offer numerous modification options to transform your Yamaha into an ideal tourer, including fairings, sissy bars, touring-oriented handlebars, comfortable seats, crash bars, and sissy bar pads. If your motorcycle does not come with standard luggage options, you can also find a variety of motorcycle bags, including tank bags, trunk bags, and saddlebags available at Viking Bags’ online store.