VS
The 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS and 1989 Yamaha FZR600 represent two chapters in Yamaha's storied history.
The 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS from Japan was powered by a 347cc 2-stroke twin YPVS producing 59hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 141.0kg (311 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1989 Yamaha FZR600 by contrast offered 599cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 91hp at 11500rpm. Tipping the scales at 186.0kg (410 lbs) with a top speed of 235km/h (146 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 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS from Japan was powered by a 347cc 2-stroke twin YPVS producing 59hp at 9500rpm. Weighing 141.0kg (311 lbs) and with a seat height of 780mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1989 Yamaha FZR600 by contrast offered 599cc of DOHC inline-4 power, delivering 91hp at 11500rpm. Tipping the scales at 186.0kg (410 lbs) with a top speed of 235km/h (146 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
| 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS | 1989 Yamaha FZR600 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 347 cc | 599 cc |
| Power | 59 hp | 91 hp |
| Torque | 37.0 Nm | 55.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 195 km/h | 235 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 141.0 kg | 186.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 155.0 kg | 202.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 780 mm | 790 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1355 mm | 1415 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 16.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS laid the groundwork with 59hp, while the later 1989 Yamaha FZR600 pushed output to 91hp. 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 moderate for the 1985 Yamaha RZ350 YPVS and good for the 1989 Yamaha FZR600 — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 →About the 1989 Yamaha FZR600
Born in 1989, the 1989 Yamaha FZR600 is a 599cc four-cylinder sport bike producing 91hp from Yamaha.
Full 1989 Yamaha FZR600 Profile →