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The 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago and 1986 Yamaha FJ1200 represent two chapters in Yamaha's storied history.
The 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago from Japan was powered by a 981cc OHV V-twin producing 74hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 240.0kg (529 lbs) and with a seat height of 750mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1986 Yamaha FJ1200 by contrast offered 1188cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 130hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 265.0kg (584 lbs) with a top speed of 245km/h (152 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 XV1000 Virago from Japan was powered by a 981cc OHV V-twin producing 74hp at 7000rpm. Weighing 240.0kg (529 lbs) and with a seat height of 750mm, it was aimed at cruiser riders.
The 1986 Yamaha FJ1200 by contrast offered 1188cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 130hp at 9000rpm. Tipping the scales at 265.0kg (584 lbs) with a top speed of 245km/h (152 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 XV1000 Virago | 1986 Yamaha FJ1200 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 981 cc | 1188 cc |
| Power | 74 hp | 130 hp |
| Torque | 77.0 Nm | 108.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/h | 245 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 240.0 kg | 265.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 260.0 kg | 288.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 750 mm | 800 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1560 mm | 1520 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 24.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago laid the groundwork with 74hp, while the later 1986 Yamaha FJ1200 pushed output to 130hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago holds the edge with a 5/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection. Parts availability is moderate for the 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago and good for the 1986 Yamaha FJ1200 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago
The 1984 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago packs a 981cc OHV V-twin engine with 74hp into a cruiser package from Yamaha.
Full 1984 Yamaha XV1000 Virago Profile →About the 1986 Yamaha FJ1200
Born in 1986, the 1986 Yamaha FJ1200 is a 1188cc four-cylinder touring motorcycle producing 130hp from Yamaha.
Full 1986 Yamaha FJ1200 Profile →