VS
The 1990 Yamaha FZR400RR and 1964 Norton 650SS both compete in the sportbike segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1990 Yamaha FZR400RR from Japan was powered by a 399cc DOHC inline-4 producing 63hp at 12000rpm. Weighing 163.0kg (359 lbs) and with a seat height of 770mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1964 Norton 650SS, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 646cc of OHV twin power, delivering 49hp at 6800rpm. Tipping the scales at 175.0kg (386 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1990s motorcycles represent peak analog engineering before electronics took over. Original, low-mileage examples are beginning to appreciate.
The 1990 Yamaha FZR400RR from Japan was powered by a 399cc DOHC inline-4 producing 63hp at 12000rpm. Weighing 163.0kg (359 lbs) and with a seat height of 770mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1964 Norton 650SS, hailing from United Kingdom, by contrast offered 646cc of OHV twin power, delivering 49hp at 6800rpm. Tipping the scales at 175.0kg (386 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1990s motorcycles represent peak analog engineering before electronics took over. Original, low-mileage examples are beginning to appreciate.
Specifications Comparison
| 1990 Yamaha FZR400RR | 1964 Norton 650SS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 399 cc | 646 cc |
| Power | 63 hp | 49 hp |
| Torque | 38.0 Nm | 52.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 163.0 kg | 175.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 177.0 kg | 188.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 770 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 15.0 L | 14.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 4 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure sportbike performance, the 1990 Yamaha FZR400RR has the edge thanks to more power (63hp vs 49hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1964 Norton 650SS, however, excels when aggressive cornering and track-day performance is the priority. For collectors, the 1964 Norton 650SS commands more attention with a 7/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1990 Yamaha FZR400RR
The 1990 1990 Yamaha FZR400RR is a 399cc four-cylinder sport bike that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1990s.
Full 1990 Yamaha FZR400RR Profile →About the 1964 Norton 650SS
The 1964 1964 Norton 650SS is a 646cc twin-cylinder sport bike that became one of Norton's most memorable motorcycles of the 1960s.
Full 1964 Norton 650SS Profile →