1989 BIMOTA YB8

This Bimota YB8 is a remarkably rare superbike, which offers a compelling blend of Italian design with Japanese hardware. Its engine is the 1002cc Yamaha motor sourced from the FZR1000 ‘EXUP’, derestricted to 149bhp, coupled to a five-speed manual transmission. The odometer shows 22,674 km (14,089 miles) from new.

Continuing Bimota’s tradition of mating high-performance Japanese running gear in a stiff but lightweight frame and with its own Italian-made bodies, the YB8 is a sophisticated machine that features fully adjustable Marzocchi suspension, and Brembo 320mm brake discs on alloy carriers and with race-derived calipers. It is built around a two-spar aluminium chassis frame, and Bimota claimed a dry weight of 180kg.

Understood to be one of only 252 units built, this YB8 was initially delivered overseas. It was later exported to the UK, and has been in the care of the seller for the last 24 years. The bike has not been used on the public highway for 20 years, but is dry stored and ridden regularly on private roads.

The bike presents in original and unrestored condition, and as such there is some minor damage visible. The fairing has some chips and hairline cracks, mainly at a low level, while there are also scratches and scuffs to the mirror casings. Overall, the Italian-themed ‘tricolore’ livery is in good order, and has evidently not suffered from any serious damage.

Its grips and levers present well, and all of the controls work as they should. The markings for the switchgear are still perfectly legible, and the instrument dials are clear and functional. The seat trim has aged and is cracking slightly.

While the seller reports that the bike starts, runs, and rides well, it requires a full service and recommissioning work before being put back into regular use on the public road. There are no known faults, so it should just be a matter of renewing common wear items along with regular maintenance tasks. The Mikuni carburettors require attention to ensure they are adjusted and balanced, and it will need to be put through an MOT test. The seller has recently fitted a new battery, and replaced the engine oil and brake fluid.

The bike has not been covered by a valid MOT since it was last on the public road some 20 years ago. As such, the tyres fitted date from the 1990s, so will need to be replaced on the basis of age.

Accompanying this YB8 is an original owner’s handbook, workshop manual, and sales brochure, as well as documentation dating back to the time the bike was ordered. Some previous MOT certificates and receipts are also in the history file.

This Bimota YB8 is a superb example of one of the quintessential Italian-Japanese ‘fusion’ superbikes. It was lauded in period as one of the most exciting machines on the road, and even today its handsome design and smart livery mean it stands out in a crowd. This is a very rare machine in good working order, which now needs another enthusiast to properly recommission it and tidy up the bodywork, to bring it up to a very high standard.

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