2005 marked the 50th anniversary of Yamaha’s founding and the company was determined to excel in MotoGP. The acquisition of star rider Valentino Rossi in 2004 reinvigorated Yamaha, leading to their first Rider and Team Championships since 1992, so they set their sights on capturing the Manufacturers’ title as well. Entering its 4th year of MotoGP, the YZR-M1 was improved for 2005 and featured a 4-stroke inline 4-cylinder 990cc engine that offered greater top speed and fuel efficiency. The chain-driven cam shaft was changed to a gear-driven type to limit the width increase caused by the engine’s greater bore. A shortened and repositioned clutch as well as a centrally-mounted cam-driven gear contributed to a compact layout. “Mass concentration” improvements such as a fuel tank with lower centre of gravity and the rear shock attached to the crankcase provided optimum balance for better handling and stability. A sleeveless head pipe prevented interference of the air duct and radiator to enhance the air box’s efficiency while the cross member above the swing arm pivot was removed. These changes greatly improved the frame’s balance and shock absorbing capability. Furthermore, the refined torque control system was programmed to assist the rider unobtrusively. Valentino Rossi and Colin Edwards were the riders at the helm of this machine, with Rossi winning 11 of 17 races to dominate the season. Edwards consistently claimed points as well, allowing Yamaha to take the triple crown of Rider, Team, and Manufacturer Championships.

• This is an assembly kit model of the Yamaha YZR-M1 which ace rider Valentino Rossi rode during the 2005 Moto GP season.

• Length: 172mm, Width: 56mm.

• Cowlings can be removed even after assembly to showcase the meticulously detailed interior.

• The compact 990cc 4-cylinder engine, twin-tube delta frame, and rear suspension setup are all accurately reproduced.

• Synthetic rubber tires provide the model