AIN'T NO DINOSAUR!
The FJ1100 on release in 1984 was a groundbreaking machine – one of the first true ‘hypersports’ motorcycles and one that remained popular for over a decade.
When it hit the dealerships it was an instant hit despite strong competition from the likes of Kawasaki’s GPZ900R. Where all manufacturers offered naked bikes, full sportsbikes or touring bikes, Yamaha managed to build a bike that had all of the benefits of the above in one awesome package. The FJ was seriously powerful at 125hp, capable of over 140mph, with a 10 second quarter-mile time, grunty and reliable with a simple air-cooled 16-valve inline four.
With a wide seat, tall screen, high bars and rubber-capped foot-pegs the FJ was extremely comfortable. It had massive potential for luggage thanks to a generous pillion area and space for rack fitment. Suspension was more on the soft than sporty side, which suited most potential owners who were going to go fast touring… the FJ1100 had a really narrow motor for the day, much like the FZ750 from 1985, as Yamaha had relocated the alternator to behind the cylinders rather than having it off the left side of the
