R1-Powered Prototype Dirt Trackers A Non-Starter
The R1-powered prototype dirt track program has had the plug pulled. “The Yamaha R1DT prototype project was an exciting and educational project that allowed us to learn a lot about the dirt track industry, racers, fans and industry partners,” according to the official statement. “Yamaha is proud to have participated in this space even if only for a short time during this project, and we want to sincerely thank all of the partners, vendors, test drivers, fans and friends that we made along the way.”
Prohibitive prices for an entry level racer and a glut of low-cost racing classes were cited as the primary reasons Yamaha won’t be doing it in the dirt any more. The R1DT Prototype Dirt Track Racer was created for market research purposes… not as a production model. “However this turnkey race car concept exploits the R1 motorcycle’s 998cc high output powerplant fixed to a lightweight and compact chassis,” said Yamaha during the intro.
“While we’re not able to continue to move the R1DT project forward at this time, we have a huge appreciation for the sport of dirt track racing and everyone who loves and lives it. Thanks to everyone who was involved.”