Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
First unveiled at the 1986 Cologne Motorcycle Show, the Yamaha FZR1000 was a watershed model that marked the dawn of the tuning fork company’s first foray into big-bore four-stroke superbikes. The predecessor to potent two-stroke models like the parallel-twin RD350 and V4 RD500, the “Fizzer” as it was affectionately known, entered production in 1987 as an advanced water-cooled, 989cc, four-stroke inline-four with DOHC, a five-speed transmission, and the same 20-valve (5-per) setup first seen on the FZ750 in ’85.
With 130 hp on tap and a curb weight of a bit over 500 lbs, the first generation FZR1K — also called the “Genesis” — was capable of a 155 mph top speed. Interestingly, this same five-valve engine architecture would become the basis of Yamaha’s V8 Formula One car for the 1989 series. The FZR1000’s engine was also later utilized by Bimota in the YB10. Though the company came out swinging with the first generation, Yamaha heavily revamped the model in ’89 with what was almost an entirely new design, sharing only a small number of elements with the outgoing version.
Among all the changes made to the model such as the addition of four-pot calipers, there were three that most stood out: the first of which was its new diamond Deltabox II chassis. The second major update for ’89 was an increase in displacement from 989cc up to 1,002cc’s, while the third was the introduction its “EXUP” (Exhaust Ultimate Power) valve system which consisted of an electronic servo-motor-controlled valve in the exhaust that optimized airflow, boosted power, and smoothed out the entire rev-range.
Another side effect was an additional 15 hp (almost 1 hp per cc added!) bringing the figure to 145 hp at 10,000rpm and 80 ft-lbs of torque at 8,500rpm. Dubbed the FZR1000 EXUP, the 1989 model was capable of lightning-fast 2.9-second 0-60mph times, 10-second standing quarter-mile runs, and a top speed of around 170 mph, making it the fastest production bike on earth and prompting the guys at Cycle World to crown the Yamaha “Bike of the Decade”. It remained in production until eventually being replaced by the now-legendary YZF-R1 superbike.
Manufactured in January of 1994, this example is VIN: JYA3LKE07RA026106. The seller acquired this motorcycle in November of 2022 from a private party in Pennsylvania.
The odometer shows 18,260 miles. The seller states they have put “less than 50” miles on this motorcycle. They are selling this example to downsize their collection.
Maintenance:
The seller states they have cleaned and synced the carburetors, changed the oil and filter, added new brake fluid, and installed new tires.
Modifications:
Micron slip-on exhaust.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Dunlop RoadSmart III tires with date codes of 5221 and 4621.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
Currently located in Waxhaw, North Carolina, this Yamaha is offered on a clean North Carolina title. Have any FZR1000 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!
