The 1987 Yamaha FZR1000 from Japan was powered by a 989cc DOHC inline-4 5-valve producing 135hp at 10000rpm. Weighing 209.0kg (461 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1989 Yamaha FZR750R OW01 by contrast offered 749cc of DOHC inline-4 5-valve power, delivering 118hp at 12000rpm. Tipping the scales at 180.0kg (397 lbs) with a top speed of 260km/h (162 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
| 1987 Yamaha FZR1000 | 1989 Yamaha FZR750R OW01 | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 989 cc | 749 cc |
| Power | 135 hp | 118 hp |
| Torque | 100.0 Nm | 72.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 260 km/h | 260 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 209.0 kg | 180.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 228.0 kg | 196.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 785 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 20.0 L | 18.0 L |
| Gears | 5 -speed | 6 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1987 Yamaha FZR1000 laid the groundwork with 135hp, while the later 1989 Yamaha FZR750R OW01 pushed output to 118hp. From a collector's perspective, the 1989 Yamaha FZR750R OW01 holds the edge with a 9/10 rating. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection. Parts availability is good for the 1987 Yamaha FZR1000 and difficult for the 1989 Yamaha FZR750R OW01 — an important factor for any restoration project.
About the 1987 Yamaha FZR1000
Introduced in 1987, the 1987 Yamaha FZR1000 features a 989cc DOHC inline-4 5-valve engine producing 135hp, establishing itself as a notable sport bike.
Full 1987 Yamaha FZR1000 Profile →About the 1989 Yamaha FZR750R OW01
The 1989 1989 Yamaha FZR750R OW01 is a 749cc four-cylinder racing machine that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1980s.
Full 1989 Yamaha FZR750R OW01 Profile →