2002 Bimota YB7 R “La Piccolina” – Japan New

Ultra-Rare | Japan-Exclusive | Blue-Chip Lightweight Collectible

In the hierarchy of boutique Italian motorcycles, Bimota occupies a rarefied position — producing machines not for mass markets, but for connoisseurs.

The 2002 Bimota YB7 R “La Piccolina” represents one of the most exclusive and least understood chapters in the company’s modern history. Produced in extremely limited numbers — believed to be fewer than 200 units — and marketed exclusively within Japan, the YB7 R was never intended for global distribution.

It was a specialist machine for a specialist market.

Today, examples outside Japan are exceptionally scarce. Properly preserved examples are rarer still.

A Strategic Japan-Only Creation

In the early 2000s, Bimota identified the unique demand within Japan for high-quality 400cc sport motorcycles — a segment shaped by licensing structure, taxation brackets, and a deeply knowledgeable enthusiast culture.

Rather than rebadging an existing model, Bimota engineered a purpose-built lightweight sport platform, combining:

• Yamaha’s proven 400cc inline-four performance
• A bespoke aluminium Bimota chassis
• Premium suspension and braking components
• Hand-finished Italian craftsmanship

The result was the YB7 R — compact, high-revving, and exquisitely constructed. It earned the affectionate nickname “La Piccolina” for its proportions, but beneath its size lies true Bimota engineering DNA.

Technical Specification – 2002 Bimota YB7 R

Engine & Performance

• 399cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder
• DOHC, 16-valve configuration
• Approx. 59 hp @ 12,000 rpm
• Approx. 37 Nm torque
• Carburetted induction system
• Digital CDI ignition
• 6-speed close-ratio transmission
• Chain final drive

The Yamaha-based 400cc engine delivers the high-revving, precision performance for which Japanese four-cylinder motors are renowned — paired with the exclusivity of Italian chassis craftsmanship.

Chassis & Construction

• Aluminium twin-spar beam frame
• Aluminium swingarm
• Approx. 1,380mm wheelbase
• Approx. 160 kg dry weight

As with all true Bimotas, the chassis is the centrepiece — lightweight, rigid, and engineered for sharp directional changes and exceptional feedback.

Suspension & Brakes

• Fully adjustable upside-down front forks
• Fully adjustable rear monoshock
• Dual front disc brakes with high-performance calipers
• Lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels

Component specification reflects Bimota’s commitment to premium hardware regardless of displacement class.

Condition & Provenance

This example was sold new in Japan and reflects the meticulous care and preservation standards often associated with the Japanese domestic market.

It presents in collector-grade condition, retaining its original specification and factory integrity. The frame finish, hardware, bodywork, and mechanical presentation exhibit careful stewardship rather than restoration.

It remains true to its factory configuration — an increasingly critical factor in long-term collectability.

Investment Perspective

• The Bimota YB7 R occupies a unique position in the collector market:
• Fewer than 200 units believed produced
• Sold exclusively in Japan
• Limited global visibility
• Lightweight analogue sports platform
• Boutique Italian manufacturer with low total production numbers

As the market continues to recognise the value of low-volume, marque-significant models — particularly those tied to unique market strategies — the YB7 R stands as a highly distinctive acquisition.

Unlike mass-produced 400cc machines, this is a Bimota — hand-assembled, design-led, and produced in microscopic numbers.

• Its rarity is structural, not speculative.
• For collectors seeking diversity beyond mainstream superbikes, the YB7 R represents:
• A conversation piece
• A historically interesting Japan-only model
• A low-production Italian exotic
• A future museum-grade lightweight
• Preparation & Global Offering

This motorcycle was handpicked by us in Japan and shipped to our New Zealand motorcycle operation.

Upon arrival, we undertake more stringent inspection and preparation procedures to ensure each machine meets the expectations of the international collector market. It is carefully assessed, tested, and prepared before being offered worldwide.

Worldwide Shipping Available

Auto Express Direct can professionally crate and ship motorcycles worldwide to any country.

We manage the entire process from acquisition to delivery, ensuring a smooth, transparent, and stress-free experience for international buyers.

Summary

The 2002 Bimota YB7 R “La Piccolina” is not simply a lightweight sport motorcycle.

It is:

• A Japan-exclusive Bimota
• A sub-200-unit production model
• A hand-built Italian chassis paired with Yamaha engineering
• A rare surviving example in collector condition
• In a market increasingly focused on rarity, originality, and historical nuance, the YB7 R stands apart.
• An intelligent acquisition for the discerning collector.

Key Facts

Ultra-Rare | Japan-Exclusive | Blue-Chip Lightweight Collectible

In the hierarchy of boutique Italian motorcycles, Bimota occupies a rarefied position — producing machines not for mass markets, but for connoisseurs.

The 2002 Bimota YB7 R “La Piccolina” represents one of the most exclusive and least understood chapters in the company’s modern history. Produced in extremely limited numbers — believed to be fewer than 200 units — and marketed exclusively within Japan, the YB7 R was never intended for global distribution.

It was a specialist machine for a specialist market.

Today, examples outside Japan are exceptionally scarce. Properly preserved examples are rarer still.

A Strategic Japan-Only Creation

In the early 2000s, Bimota identified the unique demand within Japan for high-quality 400cc sport motorcycles — a segment shaped by licensing structure, taxation brackets, and a deeply knowledgeable enthusiast culture.

Rather than rebadging an existing model, Bimota engineered a purpose-built lightweight sport platform, combining:

• Yamaha’s proven 400cc inline-four performance
• A bespoke aluminium Bimota chassis
• Premium suspension and braking components
• Hand-finished Italian craftsmanship

The result was the YB7 R — compact, high-revving, and exquisitely constructed. It earned the affectionate nickname “La Piccolina” for its proportions, but beneath its size lies true Bimota engineering DNA.

Technical Specification – 2002 Bimota YB7 R

Engine & Performance

• 399cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder
• DOHC, 16-valve configuration
• Approx. 59 hp @ 12,000 rpm
• Approx. 37 Nm torque
• Carburetted induction system
• Digital CDI ignition
• 6-speed close-ratio transmission
• Chain final drive

The Yamaha-based 400cc engine delivers the high-revving, precision performance for which Japanese four-cylinder motors are renowned — paired with the exclusivity of Italian chassis craftsmanship.

Chassis & Construction

• Aluminium twin-spar beam frame
• Aluminium swingarm
• Approx. 1,380mm wheelbase
• Approx. 160 kg dry weight

As with all true Bimotas, the chassis is the centrepiece — lightweight, rigid, and engineered for sharp directional changes and exceptional feedback.

Suspension & Brakes

• Fully adjustable upside-down front forks
• Fully adjustable rear monoshock
• Dual front disc brakes with high-performance calipers
• Lightweight 17-inch alloy wheels

Component specification reflects Bimota’s commitment to premium hardware regardless of displacement class.

Condition & Provenance

This example was sold new in Japan and reflects the meticulous care and preservation standards often associated with the Japanese domestic market.

It presents in collector-grade condition, retaining its original specification and factory integrity. The frame finish, hardware, bodywork, and mechanical presentation exhibit careful stewardship rather than restoration.

It remains true to its factory configuration — an increasingly critical factor in long-term collectability.

Investment Perspective

• The Bimota YB7 R occupies a unique position in the collector market:
• Fewer than 200 units believed produced
• Sold exclusively in Japan
• Limited global visibility
• Lightweight analogue sports platform
• Boutique Italian manufacturer with low total production numbers

As the market continues to recognise the value of low-volume, marque-significant models — particularly those tied to unique market strategies — the YB7 R stands as a highly distinctive acquisition.

Unlike mass-produced 400cc machines, this is a Bimota — hand-assembled, design-led, and produced in microscopic numbers.

• Its rarity is structural, not speculative.
• For collectors seeking diversity beyond mainstream superbikes, the YB7 R represents:
• A conversation piece
• A historically interesting Japan-only model
• A low-production Italian exotic
• A future museum-grade lightweight
• Preparation & Global Offering

This motorcycle was handpicked by us in Japan and shipped to our New Zealand motorcycle operation.

Upon arrival, we undertake more stringent inspection and preparation procedures to ensure each machine meets the expectations of the international collector market. It is carefully assessed, tested, and prepared before being offered worldwide.

Worldwide Shipping Available

Auto Express Direct can professionally crate and ship motorcycles worldwide to any country.

We manage the entire process from acquisition to delivery, ensuring a smooth, transparent, and stress-free experience for international buyers.

Summary

The 2002 Bimota YB7 R “La Piccolina” is not simply a lightweight sport motorcycle.

It is:

• A Japan-exclusive Bimota
• A sub-200-unit production model
• A hand-built Italian chassis paired with Yamaha engineering
• A rare surviving example in collector condition
• In a market increasingly focused on rarity, originality, and historical nuance, the YB7 R stands apart.
• An intelligent acquisition for the discerning collector.

  Summary

  The 2002 Bimota YB7 R “La Piccolina” is not simply a lightweight sport motorcycle.