BiZ
01-17-2008, 02:57 AM
Year: 2004
Model: YZF - R1
Eng size: 1000cc
Pipes: HMF Slip Ons Carbon Fiber
Seat: Stock
Wheels: Stock
Accessories:
Bar-end spikes, Windscreen spikes, mirror block offs, Custom Star Sliders for frame and swingarm, swingarm spoils, custom plate eliminator kit, greggs flush mount turn singals, puig smoke windscreen.
And the story:
Not really sure what kind of story you're looking for in specific but here goes.
I purchased my 2004 R1 in late October of 2003 and delivered in late Feb of 04. Prior to my 2004 R1 purchase I had recently owned a 2002 Yamaha R1 Silver. I never use to be a Yamaha fan, as I spent most of my riding years mounting all sorts of Kawasaki Ninja's ranging from 250cc thru 900cc. It wasn't until late 2001, when my patience had run out for my then beloved Kawasaki to upgrade there then 9R to a 10R which had been rumored for years prior.
After catching a glimpse of the new redesigned R1, I decided I'd venture out and make a brand change and attempt to give another bike a chance. The day I picked up my first R1, was the day I realized I made the best decision of my life.
Shortly after late 2003 I made the surprising decision to upgrade to a 2004 R1, simply because I was intrigued by the under tail exhaust, and unique look. Performance upgrades was of course a plus, but to me, it was the overall appeal that drew me towards my now 2004 Red R1.
Despite over the years of great 1000cc motorcycles that have come to play in the liter division, I have to admit that my time spent on my 2002 and 2004 R1 have been memorable and I can't speak enough about the moral value and experience I've received when riding my R1. I've been fortunate to ride other brands as I've greatly enjoyed my seat time over the years, and have learned that other brand motorcycles offer wonderful qualities, personalities & unique character. However I've yet to feel the same sensation, satisfaction and overall positive feed back I get from my R1 not only from the motorcycle itself, but from fellow motorcyclist.
I look forward to another R1 in the future, and despite being tempted to switch brands, I've always found myself hurdling my R1 each time realizing that there truly is nothing else then the R1, and it surely makes me feel like the ONE, and like I tell everyone else, to be the one, you have to ride the one, and unless your on the R1 you're really not riding a sportbike.
Of course that's my love for my Yamaha R1, and I'm sure others may love there brand motorcycle with the same passion. In the grand scheme of things, I've been riding for over 10 years, and I consider myself an experienced / expert street rider. I've ridden through just about every traffic jam, to country road and city streets you can imagine. I've used my R1 not only for riding pleasures but as basic transportation to work and other obligations over the years. I'm lucky to be around without losing my life or badly injuring myself during the early years of learning how to ride not to mention maturing throughout those years as a youth rider being exposed to the many different aspects of cultural life and diverse opinionated views of extreme riding.
I've currently ridden my 2004 red R1 to about 20,000 + miles and my bike still feels like it's brand new. It's been wonderful to me, and I've enjoyed many different riding experiences along the way. I'm satisfied with its quality and looks, and although today's liter bikes might have a better edge in performance, I can't tell you in words that despite the performance disadvantage of my 2004 R1 compared to today's liter bikes, there's nothing that compares to the reactions and overall feel that my R1 has given when parked next to those "other" liter bikes.
My 2004 Red R1 currently resides in Cleveland, Ohio, was delivered in Akron, Ohio in late Feb, 2004. I'm the original owner and plan to be the original owner until I upgrade perhaps to the 2009 R1.
I love motorcycles and am deeply involved in the motorcycle industry. My number 1 factor behind my purchase of a motorcycle is the overall feel and design appeal. However I do value and admire the performance of all the current machines available, I do not base my purchasing decision on performance alone. My user ability standards for my motorcycle are not dependent on performance alone, nor is my riding experienced measured by inches and seconds.
So, if you ever find yourself in the Cleveland area looking for a nice ride and looking to enjoy the motorcycle community here in Cleveland, don't hesitate to contact me.
"Until then, Know that when you see me riding the ONE, just know that I will always be what you wish to be, and like all the others who will forever envy me, it's only those who ride the ONE that will know what everlasting eternity shall be."
Simply put, you aint shit unless you're riding the one son!
Photo taken of my 2004 R1 in August of 2007. Additional photos with model were taken the same day. Hope you enjoy the photos and my friend who kindly modeled next to my motorcycle.
Biz-
Cleveland, Ohio