Description
At a time when Japanese manufacturers were getting increasingly aggressive and race-oriented with their 400s to compete in their domestic Formula 3 championship, Yamaha introduced the FZR400 in 1986 as a bike to be enjoyed “on twisty public roads where the customers would actually be riding and enjoying them.” For more on the FZR400, check out this excellent profile on Yamaha’s site where they talk about the challenges of it being the first motorcycle to use “full-fledged radial tires” and how they fought the urge to implement quick steering like their competition to create something that consumers would enjoy more on the street.
But Yamaha did not stop there – in 1989 they debuted an up-spec model called the FZR400RR, and in Japan they followed it up with the FZR400RR SP. Though both remarkable machines, the latter was the one to have. A claimed 66hp output in combination with a smooth-shifting six-speed transmission could rocket the bike to 122mph. The RR also boasted unique cosmetic upgrades like ringed projector beam headlights, teardrop turn signals, and a framed taillight lens.
This rehosted review on Motorcycle Specs sums up the FZR400RR SP by saying: “It’s very hard to write about the FZR400’s qualities. Braking, acceleration, flexibility, build quality, stability – just think of a cliche and double it. For steering and suspension, think of a cliche and triple it.” Shockingly, the review adds, “even an OW-01 isn’t as well made as the 400 SP” — and that was Yamaha’s halo bike of the day.
This example is VIN: 3TJ-141625. The seller states “The bike was brought into South Africa in the early 2000’s, by a collector. It was stored in a private collection for many years until I acquired it.”
The odometer shows 17,137 KM which is 10,648 miles.
Maintenance:
The seller states “ I have just recently had the motorcycle recommisioned at Auto Motorcycle Specialists. The bike was gone through, Fully serviced, carbs cleaned out and balanced, all fluids replaced and 2x new Pireli Angel tyres fitted too.”
Modifications:
Aftermarket Exhaust.
Inside of the tank:
It is riding on Pirelli Angel tires with date codes of 1624 and 1924.
The sale includes one key.
Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:
[PLACEHOLDER: PHOTOS OF SCUFFS/BLEMISHES]
Currently located in Johannesburg, South Africa this Yamaha is offered on a bill of sale only. “A quotation for shipping has been prepared for this motorcycle to be shipped to Los Angeles using the preferred shipper of Iconic Motorbikes, Skyline Global Logistics. This quotation adds up to R28085 ZAR local South African Rand which equates to roughly 1500 USD at an exchange rate of 18 USD to 1 ZAR. Estimated time of shipping would be 30 business days. Please be aware that applicable customs duties in your home country may apply. For example; Motorcycles imported into the United States can be imported and charged up to a rate of 2.4%, depending on the purchase price.”
Please note: The above quote is subject to change according to market conditions and demand. Also note that these charges are ONLY for the S.Africa portion and the ocean freight. There are additional local charges such CFS fees for unloading the ocean container at the port, customs fees, duties and local drayage, etc.
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