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1998–1999 Yamaha YZF-R1 (4XV) Valuation Report

Date: September 2025

Historical Overview

The Yamaha YZF-R1, launched in 1998 (model code 4XV), redefined the superbike class with its compact chassis, stacked gearbox design and 150 bhp inline-four. The first-generation carburetted R1 (1998–1999) remains the most collectible, with original red/white and blue/white liveries in high demand in the UK market.

UK Valuation Summary (by condition)

Condition	Estimated Value (GBP)	Example External Source (plain text)
Project / Restoration High-mileage or accident-damaged; non-running or requiring cosmetic/mechanical rebuild.	£3,500 – £5,000	eBay UK — tired 1998 R1s sold £3.7–4.5k (2024–25). Car & Classic — occasional import projects around £5k.
Roadworthy / Presentable Running, tidy examples; some patina, aftermarket exhausts common.	£6,000 – £8,500	Iconic Auctioneers — 1999 Yamaha R1 sold £7,475 (May 2023). Car & Classic dealer listings £7–8.5k.
Restored / Excellent Low-mile original or high-quality restorations with correct paintwork and provenance.	£9,000 – £12,500	Bonhams Stafford — 1998 Yamaha R1 sold £11,500 (Apr 2024). Dealer asks 2025 up to £12.5k for very original, low-mile 4XVs.

Notes: Collectors favour unmodified, original-paint R1s from the first two years (1998–1999). Common period mods (aftermarket exhausts, indicators, tail tidies) can lower values unless OEM parts are included. Later 2000-on models are less collectible at present.

Value Influencing Factors

Originality: OEM exhaust, fairings, mirrors and indicators significantly affect collector value.
Mileage: Sub-15k mile bikes are most desirable; high-mileage examples soften in value.
Colour schemes: Original red/white and blue/white UK liveries command premiums.
Documentation: Full V5C, MOT history, service invoices and low-owner history boost buyer confidence.
Market timing: Spring Stafford/NEC auctions and summer classifieds bring top results.

Conclusion

As of September 2025 in the UK, Yamaha R1 (4XV) values stand at £3.5–5k for projects, £6–8.5k for roadworthy riders, and £9–12.5k for restored or excellent low-mile examples. Early, unmodified UK-supplied 1998 bikes with history are pushing the top end of this range.

Sources (plain text):
Iconic Auctioneers — 1999 Yamaha R1 sold £7,475 (May 2023).
Bonhams Stafford — 1998 Yamaha R1 sold £11,500 (Apr 2024).
Car & Classic — active UK listings £7–8.5k; projects £5k.
eBay UK — completed sales for 1998 R1s £3.7–4.5k (2024–25).

All Valuations