Description
National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands
Viewing: Tues 21st July from 1pm
Auction: Wed 22th July from 10am
Location: National Motorcycle Museum, Coventry Road, Bickenhill, Solihull B92 0EJ
Registration No: RGX 187XFrame No: 5A80002356MOT: Exempt
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.
A UK Market machine when new, ‘RGX 187X’ was first registered on the 4th November 1981 and was originally painted silver. It changed hands several times within the first decade of its existence, and was colour changed to black with red wheels in 1992. Our vendor acquired it in 1996 and rode it sparingly, before parking it up with the intention of someday restoring it. Several other major projects took precedent however, and now he has opted to sell it due to age. The vendor has recently got it running, although he has advised that it will need further recommissioning and a thorough check through. It is supplied with the current V5C, a few old MoT certificates and other sundry items relating to the history.
** Bidding will take place live at the venue, online via our H&H website, by telephone and commission - T&Cs apply**
Entry by catalogue and can be purchased for £20 (admits 2 people)
