Motorcycle specifications YamahaFJ 1100 1985 Another speed for the road

When the FJ 1100 was unveiled to the public in 1983, the brand's marketing department chose to position it in the large supersports segment. Released in 1984, the FJ1100 found itself up against competitors who, unfortunately, had far more convincing arguments. Not that the FJ was a bad motorcycle, but its sober styling and technology didn't seem to be able to charm sportbikers when up against the water-cooled Honda VF 1000 R or the more aggressively styled Kawasaki GPZ900R Ninja.

But rather than fight a losing battle or hastily revise its copy, Yamaha has chosen to reposition its model in the sporty road segment. And this marketing repositioning is probably the best thing that could have happened to the FJ, given its obvious qualities in this area and its very classic look.

for its chassis, the FJ is a novelty, with a type of frame that will mark a large part of Japanese production. The perimeter structure is made of square-section steel tubing, inspired by certain Bimota models of the period. This layout makes the FJ a stable and safe motorcycle. Suspension comfort is excellent, and the seat is rather plush. Braking is often described as "more than adequate". A modest way of describing the excellent work done by the 3 x 282 mm discs squeezed by single-piston calipers. The chassis isn't a model of liveliness, but it makes up for it with ease.

The powerplant develops 125 hp and 10.3 mkg of torque. The 4-cylinder engine is air-cooled and houses a tall, twin-actuated 16-valve unit. To keep the width of the engine to a minimum, the alternator and starter are offset to the rear of the cylinder block. Finally, power is transmitted to the rear wheel via a chain, the cardan shaft having been omitted at the design stage in view of the bike's sporty vocation. With its strong character, this engine was limited to just over 95 hp the following year, in accordance with new French legislation limiting motorcycle power to a maximum of 100 hp. And while those who were able to try out both versions noted a clear attenuation of the muscular, raging character, the 1100 with the bridle was still more than sufficient to take its rider, a passenger and luggage at a very good pace over long distances.

In fact, the FJ is quickly gaining a reputation for mileage. Its natural stability and powerful engine make for very long trips. However, fairing protection is its weak point. The sloping, short bubble doesn't provide enough protection for taller riders (another legacy of its sporty origins). Subsequent versions (1200cc) will receive several different bubbles as they evolve. The FJ was also often hitched up, proof of the qualities of its chassis and engine.

The commercial success of the FJ 1100 was evident from the very first year, no doubt thanks to this marketing repositioning. The 1100 version would be replaced in 1986 by a more torquey and punchy 1200cc version, worthy of its own Motoplanete entry ;-)

Tanthallas - Photos: Manufacturer