Motorcycle specifications YamahaFZR 750 R - OW 01 1989 Yamaha's prestige

the original principle of a motorcycle is to give pleasure to every enthusiast who takes its handlebars. That's true of most machines - it's even truer, and certainly goes further, when you consider the new FZR 750 R. This Yamaha isn't just a sports bike; it's a prestigious showcase for the manufacturer, who didn't hesitate to invest it with the best of its technology to turn it into a Superbike barely disguised as a road bike. Indeed, its name - OW 01 - leaves no doubt as to its vocation, OW being the designation of factory racing machines.

while the name and shape of the FZR-R are very similar in appearance to the standard FZR, the OW 01 has nothing in common with the lambda version. It starts with a completely new engine, still faithful to Genesis technology (5 valves per cylinder). The adoption of hyper-square dimensions has made it possible to install larger valves, and create an engine that's lower in height and takes more revs. Titanium connecting rods, a lighter crankshaft and 2-ring pistons reduce the inertia of this engine, which can rev up to 13,000 rpm - that's right! Two air intakes at the top of the fairing feed cooler air to a bank of 4 flat-barrel 38 mm carburetors. One of the most interesting features of this machine is that it is equipped with the new EXUP system, arriving in France for the first time. An electronic system analyzes exhaust gas pressure and controls a valve installed in the plenum chamber. By releasing the gas more or less, the valve regulates the flow and increases torque at low and mid-range speeds. A particularly efficient system. In standard configuration, the mill delivers 120 hp. When fitted with the racing kit parts, it's virtually ready for competition, with power reaching 135 hp. Truly mind-blowing for a 3/4-liter!

the case that houses this engine is also a little gem. The chassis is inspired by and benefits directly from experience gained with the YZF 750 endurance bike. The Deltabox frame, also brand-new, is made up of 2 thick aluminum spars connected to castings. This structure has done away with the lower cradles found on the FZR 750, and one of its special features is that the engine contributes to the overall rigidity. The strong, beautiful aluminum swingarm is controlled by an Öhlins monoshock adjustable in all directions and in a host of positions. It's even possible to change the bike's attitude without touching the settings, as the upper shock mount can be adjusted. You can even alter the wheelbase, as the rear wheel can be attached to the swingarm in several places. Add to this a large 43 mm fork that can be adjusted from anywhere, 320 mm floating discs calmed by 4-piston calipers, 17" rims fitted with 120 and 170 tires, a more-than-beautiful plastic finish... and stop drooling like that! Get on it instead.

while the riding position is nicely forward (as it should be on this type of machine), it's not as pronounced as on a Honda RC 30, its direct competitor. The rider is well positioned, just enough to feel the front end and ready to react to the beast's potential. Right from the start, the Yam is surprisingly sociable. The engine responds very well, the controls are smooth, the bike is obvious - the lady knows how to behave.
But we're not going to ask this sprinter to sunbathe. It's time to show her stuff. Taïaut! It's time to unleash the musclemen, who will be delighted to keep the dream alive, a dream that the chassis only enhances. Supple at the bottom, it's healthy at mid-range, thanks in no small part to the EXUP system. Once the 8,000 rpm mark has been passed, the horde is unleashed, racing valiantly towards the 13,000 rpm mark. The revs are worthy of a sporty 2-stroke, so low is the inertia. It's a real rocket.
Irreproachable in its handling, the FZR-R is superbly stable in all conditions. It places itself in corners, swallows them without ever rebelling, negotiates high-speed sweeping curves without moving, and goes at over 2XX km/h without batting an eyelid. The front end is incredibly precise and the damping is of the highest quality, both front and rear. The result is comfort and rigor of the highest order.

of course, when you're dealing with a machine like this, there's bound to be a sticking point: the checkout. Almost 120,000 francs to own this toy. Outch! Especially as production will be limited; there won't be enough to go around. Clearly, it's not cheap. But when you consider that this is one of the most excellent motorcycles available, bringing together the best of Yamaha, very close to the dream and devilishly enchanting, the price no longer has any real meaning.

M.B
(inspired by Moto-journal
internet and manufacturer photos)