Large and heavy motorcycles provide comfortable riding experiences and are suitable for a long drive. They allow us to significantly expand our sphere of activity. However, these vehicles aren’t fit for driving through a rough landscape. That’s why motorcycle riders tend to shy away from going deep into the nature with them. We think of these motorcycles as useful for going for a long ride with lots of stuff on them but having less flexibility when making unscheduled stops in the course of our journeys.

Yamaha Motors has traditionally valued the concept of “light, slim and compact” in developing motorcycles. This is rooted in the company’s belief in the design that makes the most of motorcycles’ mobility and organizes various functions into beautiful appearances at the same time.

The picture below shows my beloved motorcycle. It takes me to various destinations. This type of motorcycle, including its previous models, has been by my side since I was a teenager. It served as my adventure buddy when I rode through remote areas off the beaten track. Even when I fell down a slope while riding on it, its lightweight body helped me get back on the road. Its human-size body combined with its lean appearance brings me a sense of relaxation and youthfulness, which helps me shape the corporate image of Yamaha. Its smart-looking color design gives it a more appeal.

For 50 years since its first market launch, it has gone through various changes as time went by. In recent years, I’ve had more opportunities to be spoken to by young riders who got interested in my beloved vehicle.

Minoru Hobo
Hybrid Design Dept.
Master Designer