1987 Yamaha FZ700

Cold Start:

Electrical Systems and Warm Revs:

Back in the early 1980s, the Japanese sportbike scene had become a sort of technological arms race. Between liquid cooling, improved suspension setups, and better-handling frames, the market was awash with options for the performance-hungry motorcyclist. Honda was quick on the draw with its Interceptor 750, and Kawasaki was close behind with the Ninja 900, prompting Yamaha to answer with a unique offering of its own.

It was called the FZ750, and it made for a marked improvement over the Tuning Fork company’s aging XJ750. For starters, the bike boasted Yamaha’s trademark Genesis engine, a development that introduced five-valve heads (three intake, two exhaust) as a means of delivering more air and fuel into the combustion chamber and thus generating more power. And that’s not all; Yamaha also canted the engine forward some 45 degrees to keep weight over the front wheel, lower the center of gravity, and elevate the carbs.

But here’s the thing — following AMF ownership, Harley-Davidson had found itself in a precarious position. R&D had stalled and quality control had slipped, making the wave of Japanese imports all the more attractive. In an attempt to protect itself against its foreign competition, Harley went to the United States Government, prompting a 49.4% tariff on all imports over 700cc.

What resulted were known as “Tariff Busters,” or bikes that boasted reduced displacements to skirt the penalty. Yamaha’s offering came in the form of the FZ700, a one-year-only model that was effectively a destroked FZ750. With the 697cc block, the FZ gained lighter and stronger pistons, rings, and rods, making the already the already reliable four-banger even more mechanically sound. If you’d like to learn more about the Tariff Busters and what makes bikes like the FZ700 unique, check out this piece on Revzilla.

Manufactured in October 1986, this example is VIN: JYA2KT004HA000315, Engine #: 2KT-000315. The seller acquired it from a private party in West Virginia less than a year ago.

During his ownership, the seller covered 250 miles. The odometer shows 4,283 miles.

Maintenance:
“New tires in August and resealed the cam cover on top of the 4-cylinder engine. All gauges work as they should, choke, starter, reserve fuel switch, signals, horn, & high/low beam.”

Modifications:
The seller states that this bike is “completely stock.”

Inside of the tank:

It is riding on Metzeler Lasertec tires with date codes of 3523 and 3623.

The sale includes one ignition key and the tool kit.

Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album in the “Photos” tab for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
“Commensurate with a 4k mile motorcycle – very few flaws.”

Currently located in Lincolnton, North Carolina, this Yamaha is offered on a clean North Carolina title with registration current through August 2026.

Have any FZ700 stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!