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The 1989 Yamaha FZR600 and 1996 Yamaha Royal Star represent two chapters in Yamaha's storied history.
The 1989 Yamaha FZR600 from Japan was powered by a 599cc DOHC inline-4 producing 91hp at 11500rpm. Weighing 186.0kg (410 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1996 Yamaha Royal Star by contrast offered 1294cc of OHV V-4 power, delivering 75hp at 4750rpm. Tipping the scales at 303.0kg (668 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 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 1989 Yamaha FZR600 from Japan was powered by a 599cc DOHC inline-4 producing 91hp at 11500rpm. Weighing 186.0kg (410 lbs) and with a seat height of 790mm, it was aimed at sportbike riders.
The 1996 Yamaha Royal Star by contrast offered 1294cc of OHV V-4 power, delivering 75hp at 4750rpm. Tipping the scales at 303.0kg (668 lbs) with a top speed of 160km/h (99 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
| 1989 Yamaha FZR600 | 1996 Yamaha Royal Star | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 599 cc | 1294 cc |
| Power | 91 hp | 75 hp |
| Torque | 55.0 Nm | 110.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 235 km/h | 160 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 186.0 kg | 303.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 202.0 kg | 328.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 790 mm | 720 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1415 mm | 1650 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 18.0 L | 17.0 L |
| Gears | 6 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
Comparing these two Yamaha machines reveals the brand's evolution. The 1989 Yamaha FZR600 laid the groundwork with 91hp, while the later 1996 Yamaha Royal Star pushed output to 75hp. Both share equal collector appeal at 4/10. Either way, both are worthy additions to any Yamaha collection.
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 →About the 1996 Yamaha Royal Star
The 1996 1996 Yamaha Royal Star is a 1294cc four-cylinder cruiser that became one of Yamaha's most memorable motorcycles of the 1990s.
Full 1996 Yamaha Royal Star Profile →