Welterweight: 1989 Yamaha FZR400R

The 400cc class of bikes is a special one. In the 1980s and 1990s these sub-middleweights provided a rare mix of compact geometry, light weight and just enough horsepower (if there is such a thing). The resulting motorcycles were outstanding rider machines, race-worthy platforms and lusted after by world markets. The US was privy to…

Clean Machine: 1988 Yamaha FZR400

Aluminum perimeter chassis. Aluminum swingarm. Inline four-cylinder power plant. Four valves per cylinder. 14,000 RPM redline. Racing-inspired bodywork with dual headlights. Solo saddle cover to look like a monoposto. Triple disk brakes. Competent, adjustable suspension on both ends. The list of included technology reads like our favorite recipe. The only difference is in the calories:…

Feelin Fizzy: 1989 Yamaha FZR400

A perennial fan favorite, the 400cc edition of the Yamaha FZR has often been lauded for its razor-sharp handling and overall balance. While generally best suited for riders of smaller stature, the smaller Fizzer filled the gap currently occupied by the modern crop of 300cc machines; small enough to be entry level, but with the…

Hidden Away Handler – 1989 Yamaha FZR-400

Wheeled to the back of a collection after only 962 miles, this lightweight Yamaha four-stroke could easily be returned to riding status.  The only really sporting four-stroke 400 imported to the States, of the underwhelming total sales here, many were raced and subject to engine transplants.  Showing a serious mid-size buy-it-now, this is a bike…

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…