Yamaha unveils new 2006 sportbikes, including a screaming R6

Yamaha has unveiled revised sportbikes for 2006, including a new YZF-R6 with an astounding redline of 17,500 rpm and styling that draws cues from the race grid.

Other new sporty models include a limited-edition YZF-R1LE and a revised FZ1 that gives fans of the sport-standard the aluminum frame, and fuel injection they've been clamoring for.

The previous R6 was already a screamer, with a 15,500 rpm redline that set new standards for revviness when it first came out in 2003. For the 2006 model, Yamaha has shortened the stroke yet again, to just 42.5mm (that's less than an inch and three-quarters, for the metrically challenged), allowing the inline-four to reach operating speeds formerly seen only by MotoGP and Formula One engines and similar exotica.

With underseat exhausts becoming common in the sportbike world, Yamaha went its own way with the R6. The swoopy new swingarm makes room for the stubby exhaust sticking out the side, looking like a refugee from a MotoGP grid. And the lack of an exhaust canister up high makes the tail look light and sleek.

The new R6 also comes with radial-mount front brake and an inverted fork.

Yamaha will continue to sell the current R6, now rebadged the R6S, as well as the YZF600R and the FZ6, giving customers four 600cc sportbikes and sport-standards to choose from.

Meanwhile, Yamaha will produce just a few hundred examples of the YZF-R1LE, a limited-edition version of the company's flagship, 1,000cc sportbike. The LE will carry the traditional bumblebee paint job Yamaha slathered on its race bikes this year to celebrate its 50th year in the motorcycle business. The LE also gets upgraded Ohlins suspension, Marchesini wheels and other goodies.

Could this be the model that leads Yamaha's re-entry into the AMA Superbike Championship? Let's hope so.

Finally, a small but enthusiastic group of FZ1 fans has been waiting for Yamaha to give the highly competent sport-standard an aluminum frame and fuel injection. Yamaha did both for 2006, and added an inverted fork and a restyle for good measure.

Prices for the new models have not yet been announced.