Designed by the late Frederico Martini, the YB5 was based on the Yamaha FJ1200 drivetrain, the highest displacement Bimota produced. The inline 4 produces 130hp and has the innovation of an offset generator ( behind the engine ) to reduce overall width. Continuing the firm’s practice of re-packaging the latest engine developments, the YB5 is a great handling powerhouse.
1992 Bimota YB5 in New Zealand for sale on eBay
With production of just 200 units, the YB5 is exceedingly rare, but should be maintainable with Yamaha running gear. The 1200cc motor is held in a double cradle of chrome-moly steel, and the frame connectors are billet machined instead of cast. For a 1200 of nearly 500 lbs., the YB5 was a great handler as reviewed. 5-speed transmission, Marzocchi forks, single rear shock, and three 280mm disk brakes complete the package. Beautiful full fairing and the rear cowling conceals a passenger seat.
Titled as a 1992, this one evidently was on display for a few years, since production of the model was in 1987-88.
Over the this time just 208 examples of the model were produced with most snapped up by collectors. The bike uses the trusted Yamaha FJ1200 engine which produces an outstanding 130hp. This made it a strong performer in its day and on its release was one of the fastest bikes in the world for a short time.
This example was sold new in Japan in 1992 after spending several years in a showroom. It has travelled just over 20,000 km or 12.400 miles and is in excellent condition.
These old Bimotas are sought after by collectors and don’t come up for sale often.
Currently en route to our Auckland store, we can ship this classic Bimota worldwide at very competitive rates. Do not miss this very special opportunity.
The seller also has facilities in a Dallas suburb, and likely could assist with a stateside import.
Hand-crafted as any Bimota, powerful as any liter-plus supersport, this is certainly an interesting combination.
-donn
Wow, i have never heard of this model. Built on an FJ1200 is quite a surprise. FJs are known for running a bit hot with the aircooled motor. Wonder how the full fairing affects cooling in this cunstruction.