The 1989 Yamaha FZR750R OW01 from Japan was powered by a 749cc DOHC inline-4 5-valve producing 118hp at 12000rpm. Weighing 180.0kg (397 lbs) and with a seat height of 785mm, it was aimed at racing 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 FZR750R OW01 | 1996 Yamaha Royal Star | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 749 cc | 1294 cc |
| Power | 118 hp | 75 hp |
| Torque | 72.0 Nm | 110.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 4 | 4 |
| Top Speed | 260 km/h | 160 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 180.0 kg | 303.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 196.0 kg | 328.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 785 mm | 720 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1400 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 FZR750R OW01 laid the groundwork with 118hp, while the later 1996 Yamaha Royal Star pushed output to 75hp. 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 difficult for the 1989 Yamaha FZR750R OW01 and good for the 1996 Yamaha Royal Star — an important factor for any restoration project.
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 →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 →