Production of Motorcycles Begins

As the Second World War came to a close, Yamaha looked for a way to put the now idle propeller manufacturing machinery to use…

Let’s make motorcycles!

1954

Starting with engine research, Yamaha begins to make motorcycles

Yamaha's prototype motorcycle was completed less than 10 months after development began, and was followed by the release of the YA-1 the following year. The stylish chic of its deep red coloring earned it the nickname “Aka Tonbo” (“red dragonfly”), and made it tremendously popular.

[Image] YA-1

YA-1
Motorcycle／1955

1955

In 1955 the motorcycle division became Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd., an independent company.

[Image] Yamaha Motor Co., Ltd.
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