The Yamaha FZR400 was always over-shadowed by the
class-leading Hondas, both the CBR and V4 NC30 and NC35s, and, on track, was a
little behind Kawasaki’s ZXR400 for sheer speed. However, the rev-happy Yamaha
FZR400RR attracted the hooligans by the bucket load, drawn to the high-revving
engine, sharp handling and high corner speed. And, as it was also always
considerably cheaper than the competition, it meant that many ended up on track
as race bikes or fun track day machines.
The Yamaha FZR400’s liquid-cooled, four-cylinder, 16v DOHC
engine revs to an impressive 14,000rpm, but like most other four cylinder 400s
nothing really happens below 5000rpm. In terms of outright performance, the
Yamaha’s back wheel 64bhp was slightly down compared to the competition, but on
a positive note it did make the FZR usable.
The reason why so many Yamaha FZR400’s ended up on track was
due to the excellent handling and ease of use. There’s no ‘getting-to-know-you’
period, you can just jump on and attack any section of road. It’s lightweight,
flickable, will carry huge lean angles and you don’t need to be an expert to
have fun – the FZR400 really flatters its rider.
Any corrections or more information on these motorcycles will be kindly appreciated.