The 'RSD Wasp', is our fifth Yamaha collaboration and is a throughbred concept with more than a hint of legend Kenny Roberts in its design. We embraced the 'Faster Sons' philosophy of classic timeless style blended with cutting edge Yamaha technology and added a third element, infusing Yamaha's racing pedigree into the mix. The result is a machine with massive impact, paying tribute to Kenny Roberts' iconic TZ750 in instantly recognizable yellow and black 'bumblebee' color scheme with just as much bite. Taking Yamaha's latest 850cc in-line 3-cylinder engine with a lightweight aluminum frame, the 'Faster Wasp' has a serious sting in its tail with powerful performance wrapped in a classic package.
This concept build features numerous RSD pars including the hand-fabricated almunim gas tank, tail section, intake scoops, radiator covers, front number plate & front fender. There's also a prototype Clarity timing cover, prototype rearsets, rear brake reservoir and prototype case guards. The chain guard, timing plug, axle sliders and gas cap are also all prototype RSD items.
The 'Faster Wasp' rolls on RSD Morris forged aluminum wheels (17X3.5" front & 17X6.0" rear) wrapped in Dunlop Q3 tires. The screaming triple sound track comes courtesy to Two Bros Racing stainless steel headers with an RSD slant muffler. The power is transferred to the back wheel with Renthal sprockets and stopping power comes from RSD custom superbike front brake rotors, Performance Machine radial brake calipers, an RSD radial brake master cylinder and Spiegler brake lines.
An RSD cable clutch perch and Barnett custom clutch cable keep the gears in check and RSD Nostalgia handlebar risers, Renthal FATbar handlebars and RSD traction grips give the rider total control. An Ohlins front fork cartridge kit and Ohlins rear shock keep the ride tight and Samco cooling lines adds a race level touch of detail.
The stunning look of the 'Faster Wasp' is perfectly detailed with a custom leather seat by Bitchin Seat Co., that amazing yellow and black color scheme by Airtrix and Cerakote by Specialized Coatings.
The Wasp was conceived while dreaming of the days past. Sunny days at the racetrack viewed from a child’s perspective, behind the fence, beyond the pit wall and racing action. We dreamed of getting out there, dragging our knee and going head to head with the best riders of the day. As history plays out, the tracks and the people have changed. But the desire to race, to compete and to have fun are still part of our dreams. Meeting our hero’s and perhaps lining up next to them drove the team at RSD to create our MT09. Caught somewhere between an 80’s Superbike and a flat tracker the Wasp is ready to do battle. High Bars, Morris billet wheels, classic Bumble Bee paint and a nod to one of our all-time Hero’s Kenny Roberts.
The Yamaha ‘Faster Sons’ story grows and gathers speed. We now reach the next level. Taking inspiration again from our unrivalled heritage, we went looking for more speed, more power and more fun. We found what we needed in our racing history books, combined it with our latest technology and found a new collaborator to write a new chapter with. The Challenge.