When we first wrote about the redline discrepancy on the 2006 Yamaha R6 about two weeks ago, we promised to keep our readers updated on the situation, including Yamaha’s response. Well, it seems that Yamaha has offered to buy back the R6s of any owners who are upset about the discrepancy. Kudos to Yamaha for doing the right thing and taking care of their customers. Here is the text of a letter that has been sent to all 2006 R6 owners:
Dear Yamaha Customer:
Yamaha introduced and marketed the new 2006 YZF-R6 motorcycle with a red line limit of 17,500 RPM, as indicated on the tachometer. After testing production units, we have determined that the actual red line limit is approximately 16,000 RPM, resulting in a tachometer error of roughly 9%. This has no affect whatsoever on the performance of the motorcycle.
We are extremely confident that, despite this error, the R6 will more than satisfy you in every way. However, if you are not satisfied with your motorcycle because of this discrepancy, we will repurchase it and will reimburse you the entire purchase price, including any setup fees, taxes or interest that you have paid in connection with your purchase of this motorcycle.
If you choose to have your 2006 YZF-R6 repurchased, please check where indicated below, sign this letter and return it to Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A., Attn.: 2006 YZF-R6 Buyback, 6555 Katella Ave., Cypress, CA 90630 in stamped envelope provided. Yamaha must receive this letter indicating this choice by March 15, 2006, or we will assume that you have decided to keep and enjoy your motorcycle.
Our goal is to ensure your satisfaction, both now and in the future. We would like to sincerely apologize for this error and any inconvenience it may have caused you, and also to thank you for your continued support of Yamaha.
Best Regards,
Dennis McNeal
Vice President Motorcycle Operations
Yamaha Motor Corp.
This is also a smart move for Yamaha: it mostly mitigates the bad publicity they have received over this issue, and it is unlikely to cost them too much money. Our European tester loved the ’06 R6, and most other reviews we’ve read have been equally glowing – leading us to suspect that few owners will want to return their bikes once they’ve had a chance to ride them.
