Motorcycle specifications YamahaFZ 600 1987

Some models are long overdue. Recent examples include the Yamaha 1700 Vmax and the Suzuki 1300 B-KING. But there was a time when the Japanese industry was so dynamic that it could afford to release a new model almost at the snap of a finger; a new model whose sole purpose would be to keep customers waiting for the real thing. The Yamaha FZ 600 is a case in point.

in the mid-1980s, the manufacturer with the tuning forks offered enthusiasts of medium-displacement sports bikes a fairly classic model in the shape of the FJ 600. Its worthy successor (the FZR 600) was already more or less announced, but the competition was becoming increasingly aggressive, with water-cooled 4-cylinder models far more powerful than the FJ 600.

kawasaki was quickest off the mark with the GPX 600 and GPZ 600 R in 1985. Honda's 600cc CBR range was launched in 1987, inspired by the "Aero" styling of the CBR 1000 F. Suzuki, for its part, decided to stand out from the crowd by introducing a highly prestigious 2-stroke model, the RG 500 Gamma (to mention only the Japanese models), to compete with these 4-stroke 600cc cylinders. The FZ 600, launched in France in 1986, was the transition between the FJ and the FZR, marketed in 1989.

naturally, the manufacturer had to make some technical concessions and adopt certain elements from existing models. The engine, for example, is an evolution of the FJ's old air-cooled, 8-valve, in-line 4-cylinder engine (also found in the XJ and YX). With less than 70 bhp (66 or 67 bhp depending on the source), this powertrain doesn't measure up to the competition, but it's no mean feat; Kawasaki and Honda have water-cooled 600cc 16-valve engines in their range, developing around 85 bhp. But Yamaha goes on to prove that a motorcycle is more than just an engine.

in fact, thanks to a well-designed chassis, the FZ 600 retains all its interest in sporty riding, provided that the rider has the right attitude.if the playground is not limited to the long straights where its turbulent rivals can make the most of their superior power, then the FZ 600 is a great choice for sporty riding.

the frame is a perimeter made of square-section steel tubing. Fairly classic in the sportbike category, this type of frame has been used for many other models (Kawasaki Gpz, Honda VFF...). It offers a good compromise between weight and rigidity, without the cost of aluminum. Equipped with good-quality suspension (conventional fork and Monocross monoshock) and a 16" front wheel, the FZ surprises with its excellent roadholding and manoeuvrability, making light of any difficulties, whereas a GPZ 600R with its brutal power demands a little caution.

weighing in at just over 200 kg with full tanks, the 267 mm dual disc and 2-piston opposed calipers ensure powerful, long-lasting braking. The single 245 mm disc with opposed double-piston calipers acts as a good retarder, and can be a great help to the arsouilleurs.

aesthetically, the plumage of the FZ 600 is well worth the ramage.... or even more. On this point, all testers at the time are unanimous. This Yamaha looks good.
The bodywork gives the FZ a much sportier look than the Gpz or the CBR, whose look is a little more civilized. The full fairing starts with a round double headlamp to great effect, and the rear shell seems to have been cut to size. As for the seat, while its extreme thinness brings it closer to competition bikes, comfort suffers.
All in all, Yamaha has succeeded in making an excellent sports bike while retaining its air-cooled engine. And if the engine is a little stingy in terms of feel, this is more than made up for by the precision and sportiness of the chassis.

the icing on the cake is that Yamaha has had the good idea of offering this machine at a very aggressive price. At under 35,000 francs in 1987, the FZ 600 was far more affordable than its direct competitors (CBR 600 at 41,700 francs, GPZ 600 at 40,800 francs). Enough to make you think twice before buying.

its short run on the market didn't make it a bestseller, nor an essential model in motorcycle history. But it did keep the market waiting until the arrival of a first-rate replacement: the FZR 600 (marketed in 1989).

M.B - Manufacturer's photos