Like the real thing, these paper models take a considerable amount of time to assemble.
I vaguely remember hearing about these long, long ago. The first time Paul Crowe at Kneeslider.com wrote about them was in 2005, but the models have been around since 1997.
After you see the pics of the models, you'll definitely want to check out the rest of the site: Yamaha Origami
Check out the detail on this "ultra realistic" model of Yamaha's latest and greatest, the YZF-R1M.
Close up shot of the model's wheel:
The amusing thing about all of this, to me, is that it's sooo totally something Yamaha would do. Yamaha also makes things like pianos, keyboards, and other musical instruments and products. Their logo is a tuning fork. Along with Honda, Suzuki, and Kawasaki, Yamaha is one of Japan's "Big Four" motorcycle manufacturers.
Everything on the origami site is free for you to download and assemble, which is just insanely cool given the sad, sorry state of the over-monetized, rent-seeking society we've built for ourselves. It's little things like this that make me think the world is cool again when I find them.
If you're not into motorcycles, check out this cute little owl from their Rare Animals of Japan section:
There's also a Rare Animals of The World section, which includes a real life paper tiger:
They also have sections with holiday scenes and a heck of a lot more.
I've never built one of these, but I saw them and thought y'all might like them. Enjoy! Stay warm this winter (if you're in the northern hemisphere... if not don't forget your sunscreen lol) !!