Yamaha FZR400 EXUP (1988-1994)

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.

Engine

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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. 

Ride and Handling

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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.

Equipment

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The Yamaha FZR400’s huge and distinctive aluminium Deltabox frame was considered advanced at the time, and its motor is impressive. if relatively basic. If you want a higher spec FZR400 opt for the limited edition, RR-SP, which is mouth-watering and very trick like all the Yamaha SP range. Compare and buy parts for the Yamaha FZR400 in the MCN Shop.

Quality and Reliability

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This is where the Yamaha FZR400 lacks slightly. Early examples soon aged after a few British winters with some winter salt thrown in for good measure. While clutches didn’t like the huge amount of abuse they received. Tuned engines were fragile if not done by experts and serviced regularly. On early models brakes needed servicing as often as possible.

Value

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The Yamaha FZR400 is not as mouth-watering as Honda’s RVF400 nor or as quick as Kawasaki’s ZXR, and there are a few quality and reliability issues. However, this tends to keep prices lower than the competition which means if you shop wisely and find a minter you’ll get yourself a top-handling bargain.

Model History

1988: Yamaha FZR400 EXUP launched
1989: Yamaha FZR400RR EXUP launched
1990: Yamaha FZR400RR-SP EXUP launched
1994: models deleted.

Other Versions

None

Specifications

Top speed	130 mph
1/4-mile acceleration	secs
Max power	64 bhp
Max torque	31 ft-lb
Weight	160 kg
Seat height	785 mm
Fuel capacity	15 litres
Average fuel consumption	mpg
Tank range	miles
Annual road tax
Insurance group	11 of 17

Engine size	399 cc
Engine specification	Liquid cooled transverse four, 6 gears
Frame	Aluminium Deltabox
Front suspension adjustment	43mm telescopic forks, preload only adjust
Rear suspension adjustment	Monoshock rear, fully adjustable
Front brakes	2 x 298mm discs with four-piston calipers
Rear brake	210mm disc, twin piston caliper
Front tyre size	120/60 x 17
Rear tyre size	160/60 x 17