2004 Yamaha R1 - Classic Review

[@Carvetii]

I bought one brand new in 2004 and owned it for 10 years. Its by far the most reliable bike i have ever owned and i put 58k on it and It still looks ultra modern today and was way ahead of any other bike in terms of looks and handling. Just an awesome bike and still the best R1 made to date in my opinion. I went across the whole of europe on it on many holidays and was always comfy for me.

[@Yakiniq-n7o]

Smoking copium

[@nin0176]

i’m looking at getting one it’s an 02 model with just over 40k on it, what are some of the problems these bikes get after they get higher up in the mileage

[@LionKing-ys6el]

@@nin0176 did you go for it? I just got a 04 and wouldn't recommend going under it because of it's 1:1 power

[@LowMax_]

@@LionKing-ys6el does you bike fall out of gear? Thinking of getting a 03 r1 but im seeing thats a big problem with them

[@Schmitzelhaus]

Got one as well, absolutely love this bike. Just a small problem, that´s not a 2004, that is a RN09 which was build in 2002-2003. The 2004 modell has the exhaust under the seat. And it doesn´t have the 1 to 1 power ratio like the 2004, it has 153 hp at 174kg dry weight. More than enough still! 😉

[@Schmitzelhaus]

@@SA-bg6kr Not until 2009, they just steadily increased horse power. Starting with the RN22 from 2009 Yamaha used crossplane cranks instead of flatplane cranks for it´s engines. Flatplane engines rev a bit higher and have a higher pitch while crossplane will run smoother and deliver earlier torque. The biggest difference you´ll notice when you only ride on public roads is the sound they produce. And from 2012 on they got an electronical traction control and abs got introduced in 2015. 😉 EDIT: Although come to think of it, the very first R1 RN01 was significantly more unforgiving, because it´s chassis layout was more aggressive, which gave her it´s nickname "widowmaker".

[@MrSimonfoz]

I love your series on older bikes. Most of us can’t afford a 20 grand machine and there’s bikes are arguably better anyway.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Agreed!

[@paulfastbikes361]

I had a R1 for 9 years such a capable machine , beautiful looking for a Japanese bike and handled superb and the little power wheelies and gently shook its head as you accelerated it was alive, loved it !

[@hewasdeadwhenigotthere46]

This is not a 04 r1 mate. 03 fuel injected r1 is 150 bhp not 165. With a cat delete, full exhaust and a power commander the 04-06 r1 can easily make 170+ hp proper tuning with the 20 valve set up. Keeps up with modern r1s still because they're lighter. A legend of a bike 20 years ahead of their time.

[@charilaospapadimitriou5629]

This model has been available up to 2003 I think. From 2004 up to 2008, the underseat exhaust has been released. On 2007-2008 models, the intake valves have been reduced to 2 per cylinder, so these models had 16 valves instead of 20.

[@michelboots7133]

powerwise there is a difference too, this one, the 2003 model, had 152 hp, the 2004 model 172hp

[@timothydevaughn7499]

I had my 04 since 04 and still have it and I was confused because it doesn't look like mine. It was closer to my 99 I had. So I agree with Charilaos this is the 2003

[@michaele5173]

@@michelboots7133 Yes but with the '04 the powerband just shifted up, it spins higher and is peakier. The '02-03 have better midrange and are quicker off the line which is better for the street. Same with the R6, when the new gen came out in '06 it made more power but lost mid range and they kept making the previous gen until '08 and called it an R6S for "street".

[@nathanstone2635]

It's a 2003 5PW model like mine but obviously this was a late registration hence the 2004 number plate and KZbin title

[@matttaylor1350]

This isn’t a 2004 R1. This is a late registered 5PW not a 5VY

[@CrouchyOnBikes]

One of my first bikes was a 2001 R1, last of the carburettor models. Loved that bike, it just felt a part of me when I rode it. Great review as ever, thanks Andy!

[@Banditmanuk]

Unfortunately for us big fellows, sports bikes just got smaller and smaller since this bike was made. A time where you had to treat the throttle and brakes with respect with no electronic assistance. That frame still looks very like my MT10 frame. Like the classic reviews, everyone does the new bikes.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yeah I agree - I'm trying to move my channel away from new reviews unless it's something that really interests me.....British bikes for example.

[@Banditmanuk]

@@TheMissendenFlyer It's a great idea, always enjoy the tour vids. Know they don't generate the view numbers like bike reviews. We continue to make what hopefully we will enjoy rewatching ourselves in old age. Cheers and best wishes

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

@@Banditmanuk Thanks for the encouragement Richard....I'm past the chasing views and subscribers stage now!

[@5ebra1]

Love seeing tests of these older bikes. Please make this a regular item. Great production work on this video.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you - and yes, this is currently a monthly feature….

[@GPR111]

Can well remember seeing the very first red and white one at the NEC just before it was released on general sale and could not believe how small the bike was and the ultra low screen...... All other full on sport bikes looked big and heavy by comparison. The bike in your review just does not look its age..... incredible. Have a real soft spot for these retro reviews so keep em coming please.

[@stephenpotts8170]

Hi Andy, I think someone obviously cherished that bike by it's condition and mileage, and in real terms after 18 years it's still worth half it's original price tag. like you I always listen to the hype regarding the latest machines, but the smart thing would be to choose a cherished older bike and save a fortune. Another cracking old bike review. Thank you...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you Stephen!

[@Matt43]

I've got a 2002 GSXR600... just put in a new clutch and did a valve adjustment, full suspension service, chain/sprockets, fluids and cleaning... LOVE IT just the same as I did 15 years ago! Granted I also love my '16 WR450 and '21 890 Adv R... but nothing will make me sell (or trade-in) my 20 year old sport bike!

[@jamest5149]

The ‘Delta Box’ started on the FZ1000 Genesis in 86 and then the EXUP before the R1 👍

[@yonniboy1]

My first litre bike was a 2000 R1 in the red, white and black works Yamaha colours, I've had Fireblades, GSX-R 1000s and a 2007 R1 since but that first one still is the one I look back on most fondly.

[@pmstirling]

One thing I like about these older "pre-tech" bikes is that they force you to be a better rider! Some might call it unforgiving, but actually it's a learning opportunity :-)

[@dadmadforgot4050]

Not the types of lessons I’d like to be learning on the road tbh. No doubt a brilliant bit of engineering though.

[@galloot633]

Love your comparisons between the new and not so new bikes , not many of us have the opportunities you have , so you views are greatly appreciated, just need more “old bike” reviews

[@MalShakur]

I just bought a clean 98 R1. I've wanted one since a kid and I'm having an absolute blast on it despite it not being anywhere near as violent as my GSXR1000.

[@oldman748]

Great review I’ve given up on the modern stuff now ride an old zx7r and Ducati 748 both put a smile on my face

[@Leethemetalwarrior]

Really enjoyed this video. I think that bike for its age looks gorgeous, also I love the simplicity too. You can tell that has been somebodies pride and joy.

[@jdmac1970]

That was so cool to a see a review of the 02/03 R1. I had an 03 and agree it still looks gorgeous even today. Another person commented on that not being an 04 and mentioned the radial mount brakes and under swingarm brace. One of the most easily identifiable features of the 04 refresh was the undertail exhaust. Great vid regardless.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching!

[@hewasdeadwhenigotthere46]

As well as ram air ducts under light

[@ragecage2011]

Tail cowl , head lights and frame! Also

[@michaelmclarney1994]

Great review, thanks! I love these but struggle with sports bikes these days. I should sell my old fireblade due to lack of use but love it for the occasional, short blast out.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

There’s no harm in that - don’t sell!

[@michaelmclarney1994]

@@TheMissendenFlyer every time I ride it as I'm thinking of selling, I change my mind. I'm thinking of trying to find some taller clip-on mounts from another bike to ease the neck and shoulder pain, and some adjustable pegs to take the stress off my knee. If I could make it comfy for an hour or more it would be a game changer!

[@liveinwonder7221]

A friend of mine bought the R1 SP in 2006 with full Ohlins and other niceties. It was epic. And lucky for me he had to sell his FZ1 - which I bought 😂. Amazing engine, beautiful gearbox and all day comfortable (mostly, my knees got a bit sore after a while). That old 5 valve 4 cylinder was something to behold when you wound it out….3rd gear wheelies at 80mph when you overtook certainly got your attention!!!

[@iamtherealzombie]

Unless things were different in the UK, that's not a 2004. 2004 saw the introduction of the ram-air intakes, radial mounted front calipers and the dual under-tail exhausts (at least in North America).

[@rp6523]

In the UK the registration is based on the year the bike is registered. This will be an 03 model that was sold after March 2004 (the 04 on the plate shows it was registered between March and September 04)

[@marcoluoma3770]

“That’s what makes a bike good, if it puts a smile on your face.” Amen, brother.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

That's all that counts if you're a hobbyist isn't it....

[@jonathanstyles5033]

Morning Andy, another cracking review 👍, just one point you might like to know though, way back in 1987, the Deltabox chassis appeared on the Yamaha FZR1000 Genesis/EXUP, before passing onto the R1s predecessor, the YZF1000 Thunderace.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for the info...a few have mentioned that - my bad! (what do I know!!!)

[@garyshuttleworth3459]

just lovin these "older" bike reviews, as are you i think, keep em coming

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Willco Gary!

[@JJ-iu1tj]

looks so cool. I always loved how the headlights looked on the older R1's especially the 1 light 1 off. looks so sick! Great review!

[@PhilWare1]

Really like the focus on 2nd hand bikes. I'd wager the majority of your audience are in the market for a used rather than brand new bike so good stuff.

[@DaJoost075]

Im buying a 2004 with 30k miles with perfect maintence records and just had valves redone. Test rode it yesterday and man....the bike is a beast even with my 6'4 self on there

[@dankorolyk5917]

What a beautiful machine,great that you can share it with us!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching Dan!

[@FCT8306onTwoWheels]

1:44 i like to imagine that the clear taillight lens is the same one i got on my 2013 Yamaha Stryker

[@essex__rider]

Stop it! I sold mine last week and really miss it already!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Oh dear!!! Sellers remorse!!

[@kevinbeilby1495]

You should be a bike salesman really Mr Flyer. All your test rides make me want to buy the bike you’re riding. Top channel mate 😀😀

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Trouble is I fancy them all as well!!

[@ashleyhazell662]

Love the classic review series. Every motorbike Ytuber is out there riding the same new bikes so this is a breath of fresh air. Also helps that I want something older as a second bike the work on, so this gives me some inspiration. Not an R1 though, I'm nowhere near ready!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

So what type of bike do you fancy Ashley?

[@ashleyhazell662]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Current musings ... Monster S2r, VFR, ZX-9r. More broadly, something fuel injected and early 2000s that's reasonable to work on and with a bit of shove. Any ideas?

[@spetersonmusic]

This series of videos are brilliantly interesting and fun to watch. MORE MORE MORE! Great stuff.

[@shadowred1980]

A small correction, the bike you have featured here is a 03 model (with a 04 plate). The spec you read out was for the 5vy R1 which had underseat exhausts. That went from 04 - 06. In 07 they went to the 4 valve head as you rightly said. In the later run of the 5VY an SP version was made that had ohlins suspension front and back, then a slipper clutch and different cylinder head giving another 5 bhp. I've not seen one of them for sale in a while, but my wallet clamped shut when seeing the price! All the best and great review as always.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for the clarrifications - I bow to your greater knowledge! Thanks for watching and for stopping by...

[@cp4512]

Enjoyed this “classic”review. 👍

[@dennisbowskill3706]

Great classic video review on the 2004 Yamaha R1. A very lovely sport bike. It looked like amazing motorbike to ride around on. Yamaha have always been on my top 10 motorbike I like. I believe its nearest rival to Yamaha was Suzuki GSX-R1000. Thanks again Mr Flyer for a great video

[@jayjackson9112]

Same as my bike ❤ absolutely love it, over 50k miles on the clock and still she's got me to over 170 mph with ease, bonkers machine.

[@joshdean5867]

Same as mine , 51k miles good for just over 175!

[@colinburnside4569]

Andy the R1 Yamaha has always been a good bike and still is.The problem that you have with older performance motorcycles is the valve stem oil seals.They turn as hard as rock and can cause a lot of problems. So yes buy an R1 but be prepared to spend a few quid on it now or in the near future.

[@johnpaterson4163]

Great video Andy. Lovely bike, raw. Back in the those days I had the zx10r, was even more of an animal, no steering damper, had slipper clutch though. You should line up a test on one of the older zx10r’s beautiful raw motors. See you in the next one mate, take care.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers John!

[@kermit7787]

I'm unlucky in the case I haven't got enough room in my garage. A statement that made me chuckle 😃

[@davem3008]

Brilliant vid Andy! These bikes are still way more capable than most people that ride them. Theres just something about this era of bikes that gets the old heart racing! ❤

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I agree!

[@GPR111]

Ditto, I am presently re-aquainted with a Honda Blackbird it is 20 years old, looks fabulous and still offers way more performance than can be used in reality.. although the odd burn in the right circumstances is still exhilarating..... A great era if you are of a certain age 😉

[@davem3008]

@@GPR111 sounds awesome 👍..... I've just swapped my 790 Duke for a GSXR1000 K5. Picking it up tomorrow.... cannot wait!!

[@jaydmhearne]

That’s actually the 2002/2003 version. The 04-06 have the under seat exhaust…I know because I bought a 06 two weeks ago 😛. Great review Andy!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks James and enjoy your new bike!

[@hewasdeadwhenigotthere46]

I got 38k miles on my 05 r1. Will never sell

[@MuscleBandit]

Loving these older bike reviews Andy thanks again 👌🥳

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you like them!

[@davapod]

Great bike, around that era I was riding the 954 Fireblade which I loved. Interestingly I had an Akrapovic can and Ohlins damper just like this R1. If you get the chance, give the 954 a blast.👍👍

[@agtronic]

I'm sure others have probably pointed this out, but this is a 2002-2003 model, not a 2004. This generation was unique in that the engine had a strong mid range compared to other 1000cc bikes. It was also the first R1 to have fuel injection. It also didn't come with a steering damper, which no one understood since it had one of the most aggressive steering angles of any sportbike at the time. I owned one and I can attest to getting tank slappers all the time until I installed a Toby damper on the top like the bike in this video. I had a friend with a 2004 and while it had a similar feel overall, it got a big bump in top-end power. These ones really lit up nicely in the top end, a lot more than the 2002-2003. Another buddy had a nice 2007 R1 with a flash and a few mods, and it was stupid fast. It was comparable to my current 2013 HP4, power wise. Something about the R1s though ... I always liked the 2000-2001 model the best, they aged really well, still look great today when you see a clean one. The 2002-2003 tail always bothered me, I always found it a bit too long ...

[@grahamtricker4103]

I bought my first R1 in 2004. It was the first model with the under seat pipes, so the model after the one in the review, but very similar. I test rode all the top sports bikes back then and that R1 was by far the best in its day. The only thing if you want to be going quick, you need to be over 8K. Once you went above 8K and up to the red line (14K I seem to remember) it was like a switch to travelling at warp speed... Nice bike, nice review 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Graham - and yes going by the comments I reckon this is a late plated 03 MY afterall...

[@grahamtricker4103]

@@TheMissendenFlyer Still a wonderful Bike Andy... 👍

[@karlj1717]

Lovely bike, the R1 is legendary great video, camera quality is awesome keep up the great work.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you very much and will do!

[@iainf6]

Hi Andy, another solid review 😉 really enjoyed looking at these older bikes such a great series 👍👏👏👏👏👏👏👏

[@grantkokich6906]

The crossplane crankshaft came in the R1 in 2009. An uneven firing system to make better handling around corners. It was introduced to compete with the Ducati's around and out of the corners.

[@jimbo4375]

Wacky concept that the firing positions can improve traction, very clever really

[@markg_r1751]

R1 anorak here 😂 That’s a 5pw model so probably a late registered one, 2004 the 5vy came out which was the last of the 20v variants, would love to see you do a series of older R1 reviews maybe every model 😎

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for that!

[@T-Sav]

I have a 4xv which i believe is the first? Got it a 1 year ago as my first bike, only 2 pervious owners - the last owner had it for 20 years!!!!

[@DatOldeBiker]

Thanks Mr Flyer, what an awesome bike! As someone who doesn't religiously follow every new bike release, I wouldn't have known this wasn't brand new. I really am enjoying your older bike reviews as it has become more expensive to acquire new machines and some of the old ones are such a bargain. I do have one "criticism" now that you have become so professional and polished we get less outtakes lol.🏍 :>)

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I must try harder!!

[@MarkATaylor]

Enjoying these modern classic reviews Andy, what a lovely bit of kit as well for the right money as well 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Agreed!

[@zidisrider]

These "Classic" reviews are my favourite. Your opinion is realistic, pointing out things that others don't. Especially for older bikes. I absolutely love the rear end on this. How did they mess up that today? I think the shape of the back and the tail light is absolutely stunning.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching - glad you like these reviews!

[@ragerider6283]

Nice vid & bike. Love these classic bike ride reviews. We're all guilty of being sucked in by the marketing hype & wanting the lastest & greatest I guess but there are so many great bikes out there we forget about far too quickly. If I was going retro it would be an RGV250 & a GSXR750 for me I think.

[@crete9699]

Yamaha's deltabox frame has been around since 1982 , when they nicked the idea from Spanish engineer Antonio - JJ Cobas...............Think the r1 deltabox frame in the early 2000's were hydroformed so they needed less welds

[@davidhall2298]

Didn’t think these Classic Reviews would be relevant or interesting to me, but I have really enjoyed everyone. Great idea! Be nice to compare this R1 to a Blade of similar vintage. I owned a Blade (loved it) & always wondered if I should have gone for the R1 instead.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you like them!

[@mikecollins8094]

Still have my 04 r1 and ride it nearly everyday all year long in all weather, I'm in the UK so you have to get used to riding in the rain. I'm 55 now and I still love the excitement she gives me and never had any real problems with her , just keep up with the regular maintenance and regular oil changes. Hopefully still riding her at 60 but the onslaught of arthritis in neck , wrists ,hips & knees make anything longer than a hour without a break a bit uncomfortable. Also had the 2001 r1 last of the carb models , amazing bike always missed her ,,she was my soul mate !!! Saw her on eBay smashed up 2years after I sold her 😭🤬...felt so guilty and I wanted to buy her back and love her again but the wife said No ...

[@Dius765RS]

She may be old but still got what it takes...

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

100%

[@ΖΕΤΑΕΜΜΑΝΟΥΗΛΙΔΟΥ]

Since the first Fireblade until let's say...2008,there are exceptional bikes you can ride Andy!so...keep on riding !!!!

[@timrains5011]

Love the idea of one of these, bang for buck I don't think there's better. (Not to sound like a know it all but think "Delta box" frame harks back to first R1 and probably even FZR1000exup years before - you possibly mean it had a new variant of it?). Great review - enjoy your classic reviews the most.

[@Mcfc247]

Another great old school bike review , keep em coming. 👏🏻

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching and for stopping by!

[@bucko321]

A blast from the past....Buying older bikes may a good way of adding another to your stable...If you had spare cash. Good point when making a purchase... asking yourself....could I live with this bike.

[@garyhope0103]

Another great 'classic bike' video. Much like yourself, love the looks of sports bikes, but haven't riden many. Was very surprised at the weight of the R1. Tks.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cheers Gary!

[@ragegang8773]

That's not a 04. 04-06 r1 exhausts under subframe, in my opinion, are the best years before crossplane motors of 07. That's still a beautiful bike you have❤

[@nathanstone2635]

It's definitely 2003 5pw model, but obviously late registration hence 2004 reg plate, just over 150bhp

[@RutgerSmets]

Here you have me looking at the used market again, Andy! I would love some nice old sportsbike in the garage

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Me too! If I had the room I would have bought this one......

[@RutgerSmets]

@@TheMissendenFlyer well time to remodel the home, then. Do you really need a kitchen anyway? You can fit some bikes there...

[@deanodrives4966]

These early naughties bikes are perfect for the road. I've just bought a k2 gsxr 600 after selling my 18 plate 1000..... I don't regret it at all

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Good call!

[@martinhughes9769]

Never owned a full sports bike Never wanted one always liked the look but owning one it would not get used lovely looking bike love the colour 😀

[@qpddd]

Another brilliant video, always love your reviews. Thanks TMF!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thank you!

[@scarboi7923]

Love the classic reviews!! More, please!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

More to come!

[@Infinitiivinen]

This is great. Most vloggers makes just reviews of new expensive bikes. In Finland bikes are not cheap, taxes are highsky. I dont see much new bikes here.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Welcome along!

[@NudaMan]

Wow! I have a Silver 2003 I picked up in the summer after selling my 2003 Aprilia RSV Mille 🥲 but this bike is amazing! Just needs new spark plugs a exup delete and new air filter 👌🏾

[@BoxingLegends2024]

"of cours they still make the R1 til this day" words that will never be spoken again sadly!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes it's a shame isn't it - you never know though, never say never!

[@niged]

Great reaction Andy. Talk to Chops about his 2007 GSXR1000. He's loving it and agrees with you about older sports bikes. Also 44teeth saying the same!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Maybe there's somethinbg in it then!

[@bloodstockvip2176]

I still have my 2001 R1, love it and will never sell it. Still quick but fantastic fun 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Couldn't agree more!

[@TheLincolnshireFlyer]

Love these classic bike reviews, my favourites along with the flying vids. Treat yourself TMF, buy it!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I was sorely tempted - if only I had room!

[@marklongworth1998]

I absolutley love your classic bike reviews, i'm not after another bike at the moment, but i love going on auto trader and looking at all the classic bikes, there's plenty of bargains to be had. I won't be surprised if you have a Triumph Tiger 1050 lined up, as a classic bike review ?

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

You know I used to have one right?

[@marklongworth1998]

I knew you had one, that's why I mentioned it. I've still got my 2019 1050, I bought 2 years ago, due to your review, back in 2017. It's still going strong.

[@debenhamdave4314]

What a fantastic bike, love these reviews of older bikes, what a cracking bike for sub £5k, Cheers Andy.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@BibtheBoulder]

Couldn't stand the R1, but loved this video.....keep up the classic reviews...

[@teneretraveller8980]

The sun is shining. Coffee smelling goods. TMF on the tube. A perfect start to the day before a ride. A superb machine. Everything you need and nothing you don't. Less than 5K. And a new one or a blade is how much? Why would you PCP a new one when the deposit for a pcp would probably buy this appreciating asset outright? Good one, thanks for sharing Happy travels 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Very good point TT!

[@Villani_AV]

They need to make these bikes comfortable again

[@whiskywhippet]

2004 was the best year for bikes I think: engines and handling had really been sorted by then, it was before catalytic converters became compulsory in 2005 and manufacturers began the never ending battle to comply with emissions regs, and finally it was before too much tech was added to bikes.

[@tombartram7384]

Cat converters became compulsory in 2005. My 2015 premix Jawa 350 has left the chat ...

[@crumblymal8479]

What a corker Andy stunning bike lovely colour and yes I am a fan never rode one though .Such great value what more would you need ,I reaally enjoy these used bike test you do and it shows as you say ya don't have to take out a mortgage to have a great bike .😊👌Peachy

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks for watching once again!

[@karlosh9286]

Yeah the auto lights on my car are a pain ! They often flash someone else, without me wanting them to . As you say "unnecessary electronics" , it's on cars too !

[@gkbike7002]

Great bike and video. Love that Quatararo helmet.

[@slg9095]

Still got my 99 R1, best bike I've owned and still looks great 👍 Throw some panniers on it and it's a decent tourer too!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Nice 👍

[@colinculverwell325]

You don't need to have the latest bike or spend 15-20 grand to get a great fun ride. I just bought a 05 Fazer 1000 for less than £3000 which is a whole load of bike for the money. Bikes of this era were still fixable in your shed as well without a laptop and diagnostic software. Most current bikes are also too small for normal sized people (6ft) so these older bikes make sense. Folks can argue new bikes are more powerful but nobody needs 200bhp+ on the road, you'll never use it. Buy an older bike and spend a bit on the suspension and tyres and enjoy with a load of cash still in your pocket.

[@roadwarrior8560]

5th gen vfr800, if you can find a good one to test I'd like to hear your opinion, I'd love one of these but couldn't hack that riding position anymore.

[@giovanniricci4369]

Great content as usual, makes me want to try a fast old machine like this R1. Thanks for these vintage videos which give a larger view of what's out there. Besides, I managed t check the Small Post, completely agree 👍✌

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Glad you like them!

[@Themotograndpa]

Great classic bike Andy keep up the great vids 👍

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Thanks, will do!

[@blueyondermoto]

Hi TMF, agreeing with you again (this is getting worrying 😃) older bikes are just as much fun as newer tackle and in my opine much more satisfying to ride. I've just put my money where my mouth is and bought a '97 Fireblade. Watch this space (I might even let you ride it) 😀

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Cool!

[@jaydmhearne]

I can tell you really enjoy riding it!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I did - great bike!

[@simonr1392]

Great video as ever. Look better just blue without stickers and original exhaust on it.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yes I agree….

[@alexhoffam4170]

It's a 2002/2003 R1 5PW, first injection model commonly know as the letterbox R1 due to the rear tail light, lovely sort after machine if you can find a nice one for sale, changing the clutch cable should cure the heavy clutch.

[@tonypyatt6556]

Another great review I must say I didn’t know that you have a Panaigale I don’t think you have ever told us that you have one in any of your videos lol

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

I sure have! ….and have many videos on here to prove it!

[@tonypyatt6556]

@@TheMissendenFlyer I think you know that’s not what I meant

[@dertyboi1]

R1 5 pw...had one of these that got run over by an artic while parked up...lovely bike...big enough and comfy enough,used mine to ride around France and Belgium and the ring...looked really cool with the after burner rear led

[@johnrenehan7406]

Owned the first 98 model - a beast with raw power right from the get go ; then an 2004 (screamer) - one of my favourite - smooth with outrageous top end; the first litre bike in stock form that could lift n hold the front up wheely via throttle only. Road a 2012 on the track - very grunty out of corners - nice powerfull on full P map mode ; road a 2016 with all the electronics - refined - controlled , but worst ride posi of all; tall, felt a little heavy ; less happy turning tight than previous - but refused to wheelie no matter wat setting the owner put it on - that was a big black mark for me

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Fair enough! Thanks for watching!

[@paradroid888]

Well this has been a rollercoaster! 2004 R1 you say. In blue with akrapovic exhausts you say. I've just bought one of these a few weeks back, in similar lovely condition. However, as others as have that must be the last of the 03 model as mine is quite different. Mine has got akrapovic, decat, power commander, gilles rearsets, lithium battery. It's loud and a totally amazing experience to ride. I had a 2016 Fireblade but it was on PCP so all standard - this R1 is way more intense. It's a touch slower than the blade was but not in a meaningful way on the road of course.

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Yep others have mentioned it…..

[@paradroid888]

@@TheMissendenFlyer cheers. Still a great video, enjoyed it a lot. If you get chance I'd love to see your review of an 04-07. My 04 is a lot more "focused" than I expected, but it's modified. Definitely agree with what you said about older sportsbikes though. They still had some affordances for road riding. New models are too extreme, too expensive, and hardly anyone is buying.

[@richiektm]

Further to my previous comment it’s typical of Superbike factory to sell bikes with odd tyres they’ve pinched off other bikes, didn’t you realise you had a race tyre on the front and a squared off touring tyre on the rear unbelievable Jeff!

[@TheMissendenFlyer]

Who’s Jeff??