Big In Japan – 1988 Bimota YB7

Seen on RSBFS back in May, this YB7 is still available, links updated to current auction. – donn Bimotas have always had a fan base in Japan, and the YB7 was dreamed almost specifically for their progressive licensing laws.  Just 399cc and 352 lbs. dry, it’s a rarity with only 321 made over 1987-88.  The…

Silver Fox – 1989 Yamaha FZR 1000

Yamaha’s FZR1000 was their flagship from 1987-1995 and named “the bike of the decade” by Cycle World in 1989.  This European import is a second generation machine with the EXUP electronically controlled exhaust collector, but is also in a classy color scheme rarely seen stateside.  The mileage indicates a well-loved FZR, and a couple of…

Subdude – 1994 Yamaha FZR1000

Development of the FZR1000 had about reached its culmination in the early 1990’s, and development of the succeeding Thunderace had begun.  The flagship continued consuming road miles by the ton, as it had since 1987.  Offered as the alternate livery from the team-inspired white/red/blue, the subdued flashiness of the 1994 model hangs together in a…

Purely Sporty – 1989 Yamaha FZR-400

Applying technology from the bigger bikes in their line-up for the Japanese domestic market, the big four started a friendly competition among smaller bikes that spread back across the oceans where the big bikes ruled.  The Yamaha FZR-400 did well in roundups of the racey smaller bikes, lightweight but not twitchy, suspension compliant but in…

Four Hundred Four Fizzer – 1988 Yamaha FZR400

Eclipsed by the 600’s, or maybe just soft-pedaled by the factory as a domestic Japanese market special, the FZR400 lived out its eight-year stateside run in relative obscurity.  Because of it medium size and power, it was a bike that any rider, almost regardless of size or experience, could jump on and have a blast.  Occasionally recognized by…