VS
The 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 and 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS represent two chapters in Yamaha's storied history.
The 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 from Japan was powered by a 1097cc DOHC inline-4 producing 125hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 245.0kg (540 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS by contrast offered 347cc of 2-stroke twin YPVS power, delivering 59hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 141.0kg (311 lbs) with a top speed of 195km/h (121 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
The 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 from Japan was powered by a 1097cc DOHC inline-4 producing 125hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 245.0kg (540 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS by contrast offered 347cc of 2-stroke twin YPVS power, delivering 59hp at 9500rpm. Tipping the scales at 141.0kg (311 lbs) with a top speed of 195km/h (121 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1980s motorcycles are the rising stars of the collector market. Early sportbikes and final-generation air-cooled models are gaining strong interest.
Specifications Comparison
| 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 | 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1097 cc | 347 cc |
| Power | 125 hp | 59 hp |
| Torque | 100.0 Nm | 37.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 240 km/h | 195 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 245.0 kg | 141.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 265.0 kg | 155.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 780 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1510 mm | 1355 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 22.0 L | 16.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 laid the groundwork with 125hp, while the later 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS pushed output to 59hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS holds the edge with a 8/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection. Parts availability is good for the 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 and moderate for the 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1984 Yamaha FJ1100
Born in 1984, the 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 is a 1097cc four-cylinder touring motorcycle producing 125hp from Yamaha.
Full 1984 Yamaha FJ1100 Profile →About the 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS
The 1985 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS is a 347cc twin-cylinder sport bike that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS Profile →