Before the curtain goes up at the Intermot show in Cologne, Yamaha has already revealed three new model variants.
Yamaha XJR1300The MT-07 Moto Cage is a spunky looking stunt bike variant, the XJR1300 has been modernised and there is also a “Racer” custom version.
The pre-emptive strike on the Intermot which starts later today is an attempt by Yamaha to grab some headlines as the show will be full of surprises and highlights, one of which will be their new R1 superbike.
The Moto Cage is an MT-07 with stunt parts such as frame-mounted engine guards, a bash plate, and knuckle protectors or handguards. It also has an adjustable fly screen, new passenger seat and red graphic highlights on a matt grey base colour with a red front wheel and black rear.
Yamaha has also updated the ever-popular XJR1300 with a slim fuel tank, solo-seat, aluminium bodywork, four-into-one black exhaust, shortened sub-frame, tapered aluminium bars, compact headlight and new instruments.
Suspension has been upgraded with an Öhlins rear suspension and DLC coated front fork.
Yamaha XJR1300 RacerLong-time fans of the bike may not like the modernised look, but it may attract a new breed to the brawny muscle street bike.
The Racer variant comes loaded with carbon bodywork and clip-on bars inspired by Yamaha’s collaborations with custom builders such as the Wrenchmonkees and DEUS Ex Machina. It will certainly appeal to a younger audience, although it also has a very ’70s feel thanks to that bikini fairing.
Both XJRs are powered by an unchanged DOHC 1250cc engine which is the biggest in-line-four air-cooled engine on the market.
Yamaha Motor Australia spokesman Sean Goldhawk says there are no plans as yet to bring any of these models which are made for the Euro market.
“However, we will reveal new models at Melbourne as well as at the MotoGP, ” he says. “Just can’t reveal what exactly yet, but will be in touch.”
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