VS
The 1996 Yamaha Royal Star and 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail both compete in the cruiser segment, offering riders distinct interpretations of the formula.
The 1996 Yamaha Royal Star from Japan was powered by a 1294cc OHV V-4 producing 75hp at 4750rpm. Weighing 303.0kg (668 lbs) and with a seat height of 720mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Evolution power, delivering 55hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 271.0kg (597 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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 1996 Yamaha Royal Star from Japan was powered by a 1294cc OHV V-4 producing 75hp at 4750rpm. Weighing 303.0kg (668 lbs) and with a seat height of 720mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail, hailing from United States, by contrast offered 1338cc of OHV V-twin Evolution power, delivering 55hp at 4800rpm. Tipping the scales at 271.0kg (597 lbs) with a top speed of 155km/h (96 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
| 1996 Yamaha Royal Star | 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1294 cc | 1338 cc |
| Power | 75 hp | 55 hp |
| Torque | 110.0 Nm | 100.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 160 km/h | 155 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 303.0 kg | 271.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 328.0 kg | 294.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 720 mm | 680 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1650 mm | 1530 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 17.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure cruiser performance, the 1996 Yamaha Royal Star has the edge thanks to more power (75hp vs 55hp) and a higher top speed. The 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail, however, excels when relaxed highway cruising and long-distance comfort is the priority and offers a lighter package. For collectors, the 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail commands more attention with a 7/10 collectibility rating.
About the 1996 Yamaha Royal Star
The 1996 1996 Yamaha Royal Star is a 1294cc four-cylinder cruiser that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1990s.
Full 1996 Yamaha Royal Star Profile →About the 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail
Harley-Davidson released the 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail in 1984 with a 1338cc OHV V-twin Evolution powerplant making 55hp — a definitive cruiser.
Full 1984 Harley-Davidson FXST Softail Profile →