1986 Yamaha FZX 700 Fazer
Review of 1986 Yamaha FZX 700 Fazer
The Yamaha FZX 700 Fazer, introduced in 1986, stands as a remarkable example of the innovative spirit of its era. This motorcycle was designed with a perfect blend of performance, comfort, and versatility, making it an appealing choice for a wide range of riders. Powered by a liquid-cooled, 689cc inline-four engine, the FZX 700 offers a smooth and responsive ride, delivering a solid 70 horsepower that allows for spirited performance on both city streets and open highways. Its lightweight frame and well-balanced chassis contribute to its agility, while the comfortable seating position ensures that riders can enjoy long journeys without fatigue. Beyond its mechanical prowess, the Yamaha FZX 700 Fazer is also notable for its distinctive styling, featuring a sleek, aerodynamic design that set it apart from its contemporaries. The bike's blend of retro aesthetics with modern engineering made it a favorite among enthusiasts and collectors alike. As a result, the FZX 700 has retained a strong following, and its value continues to appreciate in the classic motorcycle market. For riders looking for a unique blend of performance and style, the Yamaha FZX 700 Fazer remains a timeless classic that encapsulates the spirit of 1980s motorcycling.
Advantages
- Sporty Performance: The FZX 700 Fazer features a powerful 698cc inline-four engine, providing strong acceleration and a thrilling ride, making it suitable for both city commuting and spirited riding.
- Unique Styling: The Fazer boasts a distinctive and sporty design that stands out among its contemporaries. Its aerodynamic fairing and sleek lines give it a modern look for the time.
- Comfortable Ergonomics: The motorcycle is designed with rider comfort in mind, featuring a well-padded seat and a relaxed riding position, making it suitable for longer rides without causing fatigue.
- Versatility: The FZX 700 Fazer is versatile enough to handle various riding conditions, from daily commuting to weekend rides. It strikes a balance between sportiness and practicality.
- Cult Following: As a classic motorcycle, the Yamaha FZX 700 Fazer has developed a loyal community of enthusiasts. This can provide support for maintenance, parts availability, and camaraderie among riders.
Disadvantages
- Limited Parts Availability: As a vintage motorcycle, finding specific replacement parts can be challenging and may require sourcing from specialty shops or online marketplaces.
- Weight: The FZX 700 Fazer is relatively heavier compared to modern motorcycles, which can make handling and maneuverability more difficult, especially for newer riders.
- Outdated Technology: The bike lacks modern features such as advanced braking systems (like ABS), fuel injection, and electronic aids, which can affect performance and safety.
- Comfort: While it's designed for sport touring, the riding position may not be as comfortable for long distances compared to contemporary sport-touring motorcycles, leading to fatigue on extended rides.
- Performance Limitations: Although it was a capable motorcycle in its time, the FZX 700 Fazer may feel underpowered when compared to current sport and touring motorcycles, particularly in terms of acceleration and top speed.
Alternatives
- Kawasaki GPZ 750 (1984-1989) The GPZ 750 is a sport-touring motorcycle known for its powerful engine and comfortable riding position. It features a liquid-cooled inline-four engine, offering a good balance of performance and reliability. The bike is equipped with a fairing that enhances aerodynamics, making it suitable for long-distance rides.
- Honda VFR750F (1986-1989) The VFR750F is celebrated for its innovative V4 engine configuration, which delivers a smooth and responsive power band. With its sporty handling and advanced features like a single-sided swingarm, this motorcycle strikes a perfect balance between sportiness and touring capability, making it a favorite among enthusiasts.
- Suzuki GSX-R750 (1985-1989) The GSX-R750 is one of the original sportbikes that helped define the genre. With a lightweight frame and a powerful inline-four engine, it offers exhilarating performance on both the street and the racetrack. Its aggressive styling and performance-oriented design make it a highly sought-after model for riders looking for speed and agility.
- Kawasaki ZRX1100 (1997-2001) Although a bit newer, the ZRX1100 channels classic retro styling with modern performance. It features a powerful air-cooled inline-four engine, providing ample torque and a comfortable riding position. Known for its nostalgic looks and robust performance, it appeals to riders who appreciate a blend of old-school aesthetics and contemporary engineering.
- Honda CB750 (Various years) Often referred to as the superbike of the 1970s and 80s, the Honda CB750 boasts a reliable inline-four engine and a versatile design. Its comfortable ergonomics and strong performance make it suitable for various riding styles, from commuting to touring. The CB750 is also well-known for its easy maintenance and robust build quality. These alternatives represent a range of styles and performance characteristics that would appeal to riders interested in a motorcycle similar to the Yamaha FZX 700 Fazer.
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