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Yamaha YD1 250
Yamaha, the youngest of the "Big
Four" Japanese motorcycle manufacturers, didn't build its first two wheeler
until 1954, when it unveiled a copy of the DKW RT 125, calling it the YA1. this
spidery autocycle was a great success. It won handily the first cinder track
hillclimb ever held at Mount Asama, north of Tokyo, in both 125 and 250cc
classes. It was a decisive moment for Yamaha.
Inspired by Adler
But Yamaha's competitors were not standing still, so in 1957 Yamaha launched a
new 250cc model, this time based on the Adler MB 250. The new bikes main
difference was in its frame, which was a pressed steel copy of the German
Adler's cradle frame. Maybe that wasn't such a good idea! The first racing
versions of the 250 YD1, seen at Mount Asama in 1957 and in the Catalina United
States Grand Prix in 1958, went back to the original German cradle design!
A Brilliant Dynasty
Yamaha was a fast learner and, within a few years, its twin had cast off all
traces of its origins and had given rise to a motorcycle dynasty. The first was
the electric start YD2. then came the first dedicated sports models, the YDS1
and the YDS2 (the first model exported to Europe). Yamaha competed in its first
French GP at Clermont-Ferrand in 1961 and returned in 1963 with a succession of
famous riders - Vesco, Read, Redman, Ivy, Saarinen, and Agostini.
Specifications
Engine 250cc (54 x 54 mm) two stroke twin
Power Output 14.6 hp @ 6000 rpm
Fuel System single carburetor
Transmission chain final drive
Suspension (front) telescopic forks (rear) swing arm
Brakes drum (front/ rear)
Wheels 16 in.(front/rear) wire
Weight 309 lb
Maximum Speed 71 mph |
