VS
The 1986 Yamaha FJ1200 and 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade are both iconic 1980s tourings that defined their respective markets.
The 1986 Yamaha FJ1200 from Japan was powered by a 1188cc DOHC inline-4 producing 130hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 265.0kg (584 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade by contrast offered 1360cc of DOHC V-4 power, delivering 100hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 340.0kg (750 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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 1986 Yamaha FJ1200 from Japan was powered by a 1188cc DOHC inline-4 producing 130hp at 9000rpm. Weighing 265.0kg (584 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at touring riders.
The 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade by contrast offered 1360cc of DOHC V-4 power, delivering 100hp at 7500rpm. Tipping the scales at 340.0kg (750 lbs) with a top speed of 185km/h (115 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
| 1986 Yamaha FJ1200 | 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1188 cc | 1360 cc |
| Power | 130 hp | 100 hp |
| Torque | 108.0 Nm | 120.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 245 km/h | 185 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 265.0 kg | 340.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 288.0 kg | 370.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 760 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1520 mm | 1640 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 24.0 L | 25.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
For pure touring performance, the 1986 Yamaha FJ1200 has the edge thanks to more power (130hp vs 100hp) and a higher top speed and lower weight. The 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade, however, excels when long-distance touring with passenger comfort is the priority. Parts availability is good for the 1986 Yamaha FJ1200 and moderate for the 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 →About the 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade
Introduced in 1985, the 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade features a 1360cc DOHC V-4 engine producing 100hp, establishing itself as a notable touring motorcycle.
Full 1985 Suzuki GV1400 Cavalcade Profile →