Yamaha's RD05-A model was launched
in 1967 to compete with Honda's formidable Grand
Prix six cylinder weapon.
With its 8 speed transmission, electronic ignition and an
impressive power output of 70bhp at 14,000rpm V4 stroker was certainly a force to be reckoned with.
In 1967, up against Mike
Hailwood and his Honda six, Phil Read pushed his rival all the way winning
six rounds and finishing within one point of winning the overall title.
In 1968 the absence of
Honda from GP racing put Read and the RD05-A in a different league to his rivals and his only serious opposition came from team
mate Bill Ivy.
The final evolution of the Yamaha RD05-A was
truly superb and stands as one of the most technically exotic machines in Grand
Prix racing history.
This print includes technical data and information on important results.