This special item is to celebrate the release of Tamiya's 100th 1/12 scale motorcycle model. Adding to the significance of the occasion, Tamiya has chosen to re-release their first ever 1/12 scale motorcycle model, the Yamaha YZR500 Grand Prix Racer.

About the Yamaha YZR500
Long considered one of the premiere motorcycle makers in the world, Yamaha began pursuing a 500cc class victory in 1973, at the same time as rival Suzuki. Yamaha acquired American rider Kenny Roberts Sr. in the hopes of besting Suzuki, and he won Grand Prix trophies for Yamaha 3 years running from 1978 to 1980. It was the yellow No.1 YZR500 that brought Kenny Roberts his stunning 3rd victory in 1980. The Yamaha YZR500 is powered by a four cylinder, two-stroke water-cooled 498cc engine mounted in a twin loop, square section frame. Features such as the deltabox frame and Yamaha Power Valve System (YPVS) helped make it one of the most successful bikes in over 30 years of Grand Prix competition.

About the model

• 1/12 scale model depicts the actual motorcycle's characteristic features, such as the smooth cowling that hugs the rider and seat cowling that protrudes slightly over the rear wheel.
• Engine is molded as one part with airduct and other adjacent parts to provide easy assembly and preserve detail.
• All-new high quality Cartograf decals are included for enhanced detail.
• Includes markings for the No.1 machine ridden by legendary motorcyclist Kenny Roberts Sr.