【 V. Rossi on the Special Livery 】
2004 saw Yamaha retain the 500cc class MotoGP championship. The following year, the YZR-M1 was drastically improved upon, featuring a 4-stroke inline 4-cylinder 990cc engine that offered greater top speed and fuel efficiency, a fuel tank with a low center of gravity, and a rear suspension with the shock attached to the crankcase. 2005 marked the 50th anniversary of Yamaha's founding, and saw Valentino Rossi go on to win the championship, enabling Yamaha to successfully realize their goal of taking the Rider, Team, and Manufacturer Championships. At Round 7, the U.S. GP, the YZR-M1 was dressed in the U. S. Inter-coloring livery, and team rider Valentino Rossi electrified the crowds with his 3rd place finish.
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