Yamaha YA-1

1955 Yamaha YA-1

First Yamaha Motorcycle model ever produced. Sold in Japan in its first year of production (1955). The 125cc, single cylinder, 2-stroke, streetbike had unique features including a cantilever seat, a plunger rear suspension system and a glove compartment in the fuel tank area. In Japan it was called the Red Dragonfly. It like many other post World War II bikes was based on the German DKW RT125.

The bike achieved early racing victory in the 1955 Asama road race, helping to boost its reputation.