Yamaha FZR 750 R, conçue pour la piste

Summary

In this episode of 'Un apéro avec Motomac,' viewers are treated to the extraordinary story of the Yamaha 750 OW01, a bike that epitomizes the David vs. Goliath narrative. On April 13, 1991, this private team motorcycle outperformed factory teams to win the 24 Hours of Le Mans, marking a historic victory. The video delves into the OW01's unique features, its role in changing superbike regulations, and its competitive heritage, including notable wins and its performance in the Superbike World Championship. The episode also explores the bike's rarity, design, and impact on motorcycle culture, featuring insights from a visit to a classic vehicle collection, highlighting the enduring legacy and exclusivity of the Yamaha 750 OW01.

Takeaways

• 😃 The video is about the 1991 Yamaha YZF750R OW01 which won the 24 Hours of Le Mans race against factory teams
• 🚴‍♂️ The OW01 was ridden by the privateer team of Niall Mackenzie and Bruno Bonhuil
• 🏁 It started in 6th place but took the lead after issues for other factory bikes
• 🏆 This was an exceptional result for a privateer team against factory bikes
• 🛠 The OW01 was homologated for racing with a full titanium engine, close-ratio gearbox etc.
• 💨 It made around 121 hp and weighed 176kg dry, competitive for the time
• 👍 Riders found it easy and comfortable to ride with a confidence inspiring chassis
• 🔥 Visually it had a wide front end and delta box frame giving it a unique look
• 💰 In France it cost more than the RC30 - 118,000 francs vs 105,000 for the Honda
• 🤑 Today a good OW01 costs 20-25k euros vs 35k+ for an RC30, so it's more affordable

Q & A

What model of Yamaha motorcycle won the 1991 24 Hours of Le Mans race?

The Yamaha FZR750R OW01

Who were the riders that won Le Mans on the Yamaha OW01?

The riders were Bruno Bonhuil, Philippe Monneret and Nikko Niikot.

How many OW01 bikes were produced between 1988-1991?

Around 1000 units were produced.

How much horsepower did the OW01 produce?

121 hp at 12,000 rpm.

What was unique about the OW01 engine compared to road bikes?

It had titanium connecting rods, different pistons, reinforced cases, and a close-ratio racing transmission.

How did the OW01 chassis perform compared to other bikes of the era?

It had excellent handling with a very neutral front end that gave riders confidence.

How much did the OW01 cost new compared to the Honda RC30?

The OW01 cost the equivalent of 118,000 Francs, more than the 105,000 Francs for the RC30.

Why didn't the OW01 win the World Superbike Championship?

Despite its successes, it was out-performed on straight line speed by the Kawasaki and Suzuki rivals.

What is the collector value of an OW01 today compared to an RC30?

The RC30 is worth at least 35,000 Euros, while a nice OW01 is 20,000 to 25,000 Euros.

What made the OW01 aesthetically distinctive?

Its wide front fairing, twin round headlights, thick frame spars, and swooping fuel tank.