Yamaha Announces Activities Scheduled for This Weekend’s AIMExpo
- Updated: September 19, 2017
Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A., will display several all-new and recently introduced 2018 motorsports models at the American International Motorcycle Expo (AIMExpo) this weekend. Located at the Greater Columbus Convention Center in Columbus, Ohio, the AIMExpo offers a unique experience with Yamaha’s many products for motorsports enthusiasts.
Yamaha’s display will be open to the public on Saturday, September 23, from 9 AM to 6 PM, and Sunday, September 24, from 10 AM to 5 PM. Although some additional all-new models will be announced on Thursday, September 21, several already-introduced, all-new 2018 models that will be on display include:
Star Venture
Yamaha’s flagship transcontinental touring motorcycle combines huge V-Twin torque with class-leading comfort, convenience and technology. Key features of the Star Venture include a cutting-edge infotainment system and Yamaha’s own Sure-Park system, making parking maneuvers a breeze with forward and reverse drive assist.
Star Eluder
The ultimate touring bagger combines V-Twin power and sport-tourer-like handling with state-of-the-art comfort, styling, and infotainment features. Recently introduced on September 6, AIMExpo will be the first opportunity to see this new motorcycle publicly displayed.
YZ450F
An all-new motocross bike for 2018, the YZ450F features a new engine with electric start, a new frame, new slim body styling, and next-generation KYB suspension components, already known as the best in the industry. An industry first, the YZ450F allows for power delivery adjustment through an exclusive power tuner that operates via a smartphone application.
In addition to these motorcycles, MotoGP star Valentino Rossi’s #46 YZR-M1 will be on display, along with Yamaha Yard Built custom bikes built by Jeff Palhegyi Designs and KEDO.
Wolverine X4
An all-new, four-passenger Side-by-Side (SxS), the Wolverine X4 provides superior capability, comfort and confidence to deliver performance that is truly proven off-road. Powered by an all-new 847cc twin-cylinder engine mounted in a compact, nimble chassis that cradles the most versatile cab in its class with industry-exclusive stow-away full-size rear seats for expanded cargo capacity on demand, the Wolverine X4 provides Yamaha’s legendary Real World Tough durability and reliability.
YXZ1000R Sport Shift
The YXZ1000R Sport Shift (SS) features Yamaha’s confidence-inspiring SS technology, defined by a 5-speed, sequential-shift manual transmission equipped with an advanced automatic clutch and pure-sport-inspired paddle shifters. The YXZ’s manual transmission eliminates the need for a CVT belt, providing maximum durability in aggressive, high-performance, off-road situations. AIMExpo attendees will have an opportunity to see this exciting Side-by-Side on display complete with a GYTR turbo kit.
Kodiak 450
The all-new 2018 Kodiak 450 is the highest-value mid-class 4×4 ATV available, providing the best off-road capability, comfort and confidence for all-day riding. The all-new Kodiak 450 joins the best-selling Kodiak 700 and recreation-pointed Grizzly 4×4 ATVs to offer a wide array of possibilities and options for off-road enthusiasts, outdoorsmen and women, farmers and ranchers alike.
All Yamaha SxS and full-size ATVs are proudly built in the USA at Yamaha’s state-of-the-art factory in Newnan, Georgia, for worldwide distribution.
Take a Ride on a New Yamaha Motorcycle
AIMExpo attendees will be able to take a demo ride aboard the new 2018 Star Venture or Star Eluder, and 2017 models will also be available, including: FJR1300, Super Ténéré, FJ-09, YZF-R1S, YZF-R6, YZF-R3, FZ-10, FZ-09, FZ-07, XSR900, SCR950, V Star 1300 Deluxe and Bolt. Registration for demo rides will take place at the East Surface Lot located next to the Greater Columbus Convention Center on Saturday, September 23, from 9 AM to 5 PM; and on Sunday, September 24, from 10 AM to 4 PM.
In order to take a ride on a Yamaha motorcycle, you must be at least 18 years of age and have a valid motorcycle license (permits are not allowed), a DOT-approved helmet, long pants, enclosed shoes, a shirt, and eye protection. To ride the YZF-R1S or FZ-10, you also must be at least 25 years of age.
Meet The Yamaha bLU cRU Racers
Autograph sessions with Yamaha bLU cRU racers will take place at the Yamaha Display on Saturday, September 23, from 11 to 11:45 AM and again from 1:30 to 2:15 PM. Scheduled to appear are four-time AMA Superbike Champion Josh Hayes, two-time MotoAmerica Superbike Champion Cameron Beaubier, and 2015 MotoAmerica Supersport Champion JD Beach.
Yamalube Sponsorship
As part of the celebration of its 50th anniversary, Yamalube is one of the official sponsors of the AIMExpo “Rider’s Garage” and coffee breaks. Expo attendees can stop by the Yamaha display to see the Yamalube YZF-R3 and register for a chance to win it online.
New Model Introductions Taking Place September 21, 2017, at 9 AM PDT
Check out Yamaha’s website to see new model announcements on Thursday, September 21, and learn more about all Yamaha products by visiting www.yamahamotorsports.com.
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