YAMAHA YZF-R1 SP (2006-2007) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 2006, Yamaha launched the YZF-R1 SP, a special edition model that came with an all-new engine with a traditional four-valve per cylinder design rather than a five-valve per cylinder set-up that Yamaha has employed since 1986.

The abandonment of the five-valve per-cylinder trademark allowed the construction of a higher-revving engine and broader power curve than the previous engine could produce. The engine was tweaked and delivered three horsepower more than the previous model.

As for the appearance, the 2006 Yamaha YZF-R1 SP model came with a Kenny Roberts replica paint scheme with yellow and black colors with attractive gold accents such as the wheels, badge, front fork, and silencers, while it still was easy on the eyes and capable of turning heads.

In the performance department, the model packed the same technical specifications as the base model, with a 998cc four-stroke four-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that delivered an output power of 174 hp at 12,500 rpm and 107 Nm (79 lb-ft) of torque at 10,500 rpm.

For suspension, the bike packed a 43 mm adjustable Ohlins inverted fork on the front and an adjustable Ohlins single shock absorber on the rear, while the braking power was achieved by two 320 mm discs with four-piston calipers on the front and a 220 mm disc with a four-piston caliper on the rear.