Based on YZF750 race bikes from 1987 and 1988, the Yamaha FZR750R OW01 went head-to-head with Honda’s RC30, although on the surface it may have seemed less exotic. While Honda’s machine used a gear-driven V4 configuration with a striking single-sided swingarm, the Yamaha mostly looked like a garden-variety FZR750.
But under the skin, it was every bit as special.
Titanium rods, twin-ring pistons, an aluminum tank with endurance-style fuel filler, a detachable alloy subframe, quick release axle clamps, and Öhlins suspension at both ends. But the centerpiece may have been the gorgeous, hand-welded frames that are almost like fingerprints, with no two exactly alike.
While the engine displaced the expected 749cc, it was rev-happy and radically oversquare, with Yamaha’s signature five-valve head. 121hp doesn’t sound like much in today’s world of “underpowered” 600cc sportbikes that make similar claimed numbers, but it was very competitive at the time and the additional displacement means you get some midrange to go with your howling top end.
And, unlike the RC30, the OW01 always used 17″ wheels at both ends, making tire choice simpler for the modern rider…
From the original eBay listing: 1990 Yamaha FZR750R OW01 for Sale
One of only 500 produced this bike has never been raced. dry stored for the last 7 years, running and riding perfect before storage
has the stock exhaust and muffler which is in mint condition,
has 34,000 kilometers (20,000miles)
top end was done using Yamaha parts and i have the receipts
comes with the owners manual and pouch
original toolkit, missing one small socket
as you can see in the pics there are 2 chips in the paint beside the headlight and under the headlight area there are stress cracks in the paint
With 20,000 miles on the clock, it’s obvious this bike’s been enjoyed as intended, and not just filed away in some collection. These are extremely rare, with just around 1000 OW01s made in total and interest has recently spiked, making this bike a great opportunity with a mere $17,000 Buy It Now price. It’s not perfect, but spares are still available and this could be left as-is, or turned into a gorgeous restoration.
-tad
Wonder if this bike has been down with that dent in the frame. I normally tell my clients their bike is totaled if there is even a scratch on the frame . . . thoughts?
This one again. Unusual situation for such a rare model- it’s been well used and not given the respect it deserves, as though it was just an FZR1000. Seller mentions paint chips and stress cracks, but fails to explain the dented frame and the cracked chain guard mount tab- did you see the tie wrapped scrap metal holding it? No doubt there are plenty more unexplained surprises lurking- this would be a very expensive restoration to bring it back to glory. I’d pass and wait for a good one!
^^^^…Agree.
This bike and the r7 are my two favorites. most bikes in this condition go for 15 perfect bikes with extras go for 20. I think he is testing the waters as mentioned before for a second time. funny how the bike worked perfectly when stored but no mention that it even runs currently also the miles are quite high For an iconic bike with vavle work. again as mentioned is a red flag for me. I do get excited everytime I see one for sale and wonder what if.
I would say 12to 15 seems fair end of season and all
I agree, I like this one at $12-13k. Too many questions for anything higher. And a dented frame….that’s always going to be looking at you. Add on the import hassle….I’m going to keep looking.
Mark
seller is obv insane this bike has been re-listed multiple times and the reserve wasnt met… heres a thought, lower the price