2009 Yamaha V-star 650 Classic Silverado (north Pekin, Il) on 2040-motos

Moto blog

Yamaha M1 Engines Available for Leasing for 2014-2016 MotoGP Seasons

Yamaha announced it will offer a leasing arrangement for its YZR-M1 engines to teams interested in racing in the MotoGP World Championship. The Japanese manufacturer has signed a leasing arrangement with MotoGP promoter Dorna Sports to supply engines for the 2014, 2015 and 2016 seasons. Racing teams will be able to lease a Yamaha M1 engine on a per-year basis for their own race bikes.

Video: Catalunya 2009, that pass

The battle between Valentino Rossi and Jorge Lorenzo from Catalunya was one of the most memorable and thrilling races from recent years, a definite candidate for one of the Greatest Grand Prix races - ever. Passing Lorenzo at the final corner was the defining moment that is still talked about today, but for me the most incredible and bold pass made by Rossi in those final few laps was out-braking his former Yamaha team-mate around the outside into turn one.

Old boys up front and where are the new 600 Gixers?

As I’ve been gagging for the new race season to kick off so it was almost a pleasure getting up at stupid 0 clock to watch the World Superbike Championship  opener at Phillip Island last weekend. I have to say Messrs Burnicle and Whitham were on form although I was disappointed there were none of the usual verbal attacks on each other that always add to the entertainment.    I’m sure they will put things right soon but the world superbike regulars must have been disheartened that Moto GP veterans nailed five of the six available rostrum slots.