Yamaha Motors is the second largest producer of motorcycles in the world. The company also manufactures ATVs, boats and snowmobiles. However, the company is probably best known for its street bikes.

When the Yamaha YZF-R1 was first introduced in 1998, it was considered groundbreaking. This was primarily due to the design of the R1's engine. The engine in the R1 had components that were laid out in a unique triangular pattern, which made it one of the most compact engines of its time.

The engine on the Yamaha R1 might have been small on the outside, but its cylinders displace 1,000 cc. The fact that a powerful 1,000 cc engine could be placed in a bike built on a 600 cc frame and still handle well made the R1 an instant hit with street bike enthusiasts. Today, the Yamaha R1 is just as impressive, with an engine that can handle three times as much horsepower as the original, improved comfort, and increased aerodynamics.

Yamaha started building ATVs for the United States in 1980. The first Yamaha ATV sold in the US was the Tri-Motto. The vehicle featured a 123 cc, 2-stroke engine with a five-speed transmission. It was designed to handle both work-related and recreational activities.

Today Yamaha sells ATVs in either the utility or off-road categories. The off-road line is named Rhino. The Rhino's ability to go just about anywhere has the Yamaha dirt bike line competing for customers.