Yamaha create R1 GYTR PRO 25th Anniversary Edition

To mark 25 years since Yamaha introduced their iconic R1 sportsbike, Yamaha Motor Europe, through their GYTR PRO network, have created a track-only limited-edition motorcycle – the R1 GYTR PRO 25th Anniversary.

The limited edition is broadly similar to the ‘GYTR VR46 Tribute’ bike equipped with GYTR PRO accessories that Valentino Rossi was presented with at EICMA in 2021, following his retirement from MotoGP.

Like that one-off, this latest GYTR PRO creation was designed by engineers at Yamaha Motor Research & Development Europe (YMRE) that are responsible for the World Superbike Championship winning R1. The bike was developed alongside Yamaha’s WorldSBK and Endurance World Championship (EWC) programs, with input from WorldSBK riders Toprak Razgatlioglu and Andrea Locatelli, as well as Yamaha’s factory test rider, Niccolo Canepa

The GYTR PRO 25th Anniversary is a track-only bike, fitted with a range of GYTR (Genuine Yamaha Racing Technology) PRO performance parts. These include a modified fuel tank, Magneti Marelli ECU, Brembo brakes and an underslung swingarm developed specifically for Yamaha’s WorldSBK program. This latter part improves both maximum lean angle and grip.

There’s also a carbon fibre subframe and carbon fibre bodywork, which along with the screen, has a noticeably different shape to the production R1. This is to optimise aerodynamic performance on the track.

FGR forks and a TTX rear shock from Öhlins are also fitted, allowing the same level of suspension adjustment as that used by Yamaha road racers.

Available separately is a GYTR PRO Electronic System module (GPES). Packed with rider-assistance tech, like launch control, wheelie control, traction control, engine braking management and adjustable fuelling, the GPES module was developed by YMRE for their WorldSBK and EWC campaigns.

While supplied with a base setting, the GPES can be calibrated to suit rider preferences, layout and other riding conditions.

“To mark the 25th Anniversary of the R1, we have brought together the bike, the full range of GYTR PRO performance parts and the knowledge and experience of out GYTR PRO Shops to provide a turn-key solution for those Yamaha customers who demand the very best,” said Andrea Dosoli, Road Racing Manager, Yamaha Motor Europe.

“With the R1 GYTR PRO 25th Anniversary edition, our customers have the opportunity to enjoy a unique bike; a bike that is as close to the specification of our world championship race machines as it is possible to experience without having a Yamaha contract to race in WorldSBK or EWC.”

Production of the R1 GYTR PRO 25th Anniversary Limited Edition is limited to just 25 units, all finished in an identical red and white colour scheme that pays tribute to one of the two liveries available on the original YZF R1 from 1998. Each bike will be assembled from the ground up by a team of experienced technicians at the 25 GYTR PRO shops located across Europe.

Despite a price of 159,000 Euro (AU$222,000 approx.), all 25 units of the limited edition had buyers soon after it was announced. To put that into context, a new, 2023 R1 is currently priced at just under $30,000 in Australia – and you can ride it on the road.

Purchase of the GYTR PRO 25th Anniversary Limited Edition includes a track day with a team of Yamaha race technicians on hand, who will run the owner through the GPES and other settings, in order to not only find the perfect set-up to match the owner's riding style, but also to “fully realise the incredible potential” of their bike.

At this stage, there appear to be no plans to offer the GYTR PRO 25th Anniversary outside of Europe.