Recently I had the chance to attend Yamaha’s ’09 Press Day where I got a sneak-peak at the new R1 racebikes, saw some insane FMX and even got the chance to meet my longtime hero, Doug Henry.
Yamaha kicked off the day by announcing the members of its entire race team, from Super Bike to MX. In addition to the new models on display we also got a chance to drag race snowmobiles, watch a tire-change competition and see the new R1 race bikes. If that wasn’t enough, we actually got to hear the ferocious big-bang R1s as well. To say they sounded insane would be an understatement! Not that words can explain it, but think along the lines of a Ducati Desmosedici with its lumpy idle and quick revving nature--one part V4, one part inline engine.
While seeing the new R1 was a highpoint of the day, by far, the highlight was meeting Doug Henry. Growing up I can remember him tearing it up in the dirt and in more recent years at the US Supermoto events. It was a pleasure to shake his hand and the ’09 Yamaha press day was an event I won’t soon forget. Stay tuned for more info regarding the new R1 and the upcoming ’09 line.