Fun Rocking

1986-1996 Yamaha FJ1100 and Yamaha FJ1200

In 1984, Yamaha reentered the super-bike fray after years of neutrality by releasing the predecessor of the FJ1200, the FJ1100, in the model years 1984 and 1985.The long-awaited bike was big and refined so it rapidly became very popular, and competed well against others in the “sport-touring” class of motorcycles. This class is not orientated on pure performance but on the balance of utility and sport with friendly ride characteristics such as greater maneuverability and upright seating configuration designed to reduce back strain on long trips.

Basing on the success of the FJ1100, Yamaha decided, in 1986, to boost performance and add upgraded suspension and other components. The result was the FJ1200. Produced virtually the same from 1986 through 1989, a slight update of the bodywork kept the model line current through 1993, when Yamaha discontinued the FJ.

Other liter-class motorcycles produce more peak horsepower and handle better than the FJ but the Yamaha’s beauty becomes apparent as sure as its odometer racks up miles.

The bike’s main competitors during its production years were mainly the BMW’s K100RS, Suzuki’s 1100 Katana and Kawasaki’s ZX-10.

Weight and sheer size are the major chinks in the FJ’s armor when it comes to the road battle with newer, liter bikes. Weighing 588 pounds wet, it’s considerably heavier than the modern racers; the FZR 1000 weighs 522 pounds and the GSXR 1000 weighs 532. The FJ’s wheelbase stretches to 58.7 inches, while the biggest FZR’s wheelbase is 57 inches, and the GSXR’s 56.7 inches.

With the FJ, Yamaha created the modern idea of “sport-touring”: a big motorcycle, build around a powerful engine which will give all the satisfaction required. The bike also has smooth lines which give a modern design, well ahead of its time.

In fact, the FJ can still bang fairings with the youngsters, up to a point beyond the limits of most riders, but experience has taught it certain things that come with middle age. It has learned to, well, prolong the act of riding. Rather than going at a full throttle, toe-curling sweat to completion of an outing in the shortest possible time, the FJ wants to satisfy its rider over a period of hours, over hundreds of miles.

Exterior

Most riders buy motorcycles because of the way they look and the FJ lasted a decade barely changed. The bike has a sporty look with a low, forward-leaning appearance. The pipes have an upsweep to continue the sporty theme, yet they are low enough for sizable throw-over saddlebags.

The bike has virtually no chrome, which is very unusual for the period and the lines of the FJ stood clean.

The fairing and windscreen-50mm taller and 60mm wider on the 1200, with bulges to keep windblast off the rider’s hands-encapsulate an average height so that the rider’s torso in still air.

The seat is thick, wide, and feels lower than its 30.1-inch height. Wide and high clip-ons can set the rider slightly forward , while rubber-mounted footpegs place his feet slightly to the rear. Backseat riders have been granted rubber-mounted foot-pegs and a less pronounced slope to their portion of the saddle. Overall, the FJ(both 1100 and 1200) offer splendid accommodation.

The dashboard further reinforces the FJ’s image as a Euro-cruiser. There are three large instruments: a speedometer which surrounds the tachometer together with the fuel gauge. They all light-up in orange, and can be easy light to read at night. There’s also an easily accessible fuel-reserve switch in the left-side fairing inner. There’s also a digital clock attached, which is very helpful.

SPECIFICATIONS

FJ1100

Engine and transmission

Displacement: 1097.00ccm(66.94 cubic inches)

Engine type: in-line four

Stroke: 4

Power:125.00 HP(91.2 KW) @ 9000 RPM

Compression: 9.5:1

Bore x stroke: 74.0 x 63.8 mm (2.9 x 2.5 inches)

Valves per cylinder: 4

Fuel control: DOHC

Cooling system: Air

Gearbox: 5 speed

Transmission type(final drive): chain

Physical measures

Weight: 261.0 kg(575.4 puonds)

Chassis and dimensions:

Front tyre dimensions: 120/80-16

Rear tyre dimensions: 150/80-16

Front brakes: Dual disc

Rear brakes: Single disc

Other specifications:

Fuel capacity: 24.00 litres (6.34 gallons)

FJ1200

Engine and transmission

Displacement: 1188.00ccm (72.49 cubic inches)

Engine type: In-line four

Stroke: 4

Power: 130.00 HP (94.9 KW) @ 9000 RPM

Compression: 9.7.1

Bore x stroke: 77.0 x 63.8 mm (3.0 x 2.5 inches)

Valves per cylinder: 4

Fuel control: DOHC

Cooling system: Air

Transmission type(final drive): Chain

Physical measures

Weight: 259.0 kg(571.0 pounds)

Chassis and dimensions

Front tyre dimensions: 120/80-16

Rear tyre dimensions: 150/80-16

Front brakes: Dual disc

Rear brakes: Single disc

Other specifications

Fuel capacity: 24.00 liters(6.34 gallons)

2011 Yamaha Raptor 125

2010 BMW R1200GS

As avid lovers of motorcycles, we have great expectations when it comes to our bike’s performance and design. We aim for a two-wheeled vehicle that can perform at its best, have outstanding features, and a mesmerizing appearance. These expectations in our bikes are what cause us to be grateful for BMW Motorrad who are here to produce the best motorcycles ever built. For several decades, Motorrad had been serving the motorcycle industry by producing highly-designed motorbikes thereby committing them to creating bikes that are near perfect.

This year, BMW Motorrad surprised the local market by launching their newest sportbike, the BMW R1200 GS. The R1200 GS is a versatile motorbike that can be treated as a touring-oriented naked motorcycle or a classic sport bike. The term ’GS’, as defined by BMW Motorrad, is an output of their bikes’ high-quality performance. According to Motorrad, The ’GS’ is not just able to handle everything, it is actually built to do so; it’s the result of independent tests worldwide. Their GS series of R1200 is a combination of easy handling, great touring features, off-road potential, and comfort for rider and pillion passenger.

Features and Exteriors

Since the BMW R1200 GS’ press introduction in South Africa last year, the newest GS model had captivated thousands of riders. So what makes R1200 GS the best-selling BMW model? Well, it’s definitely because of the fact that it’s versatile and sensible. The 2010 BMW R1200 GS offers a combination of off- and on- road features that make it perfect for touring adventures. This bike is a good choice if you want to travel on dirt roads, freeways, and city streets. Moreover, be wowed with the GS’ tall height which is enough for you to see over most standard cars. Also take note of it’s air-cooled motor which wipes away the traveling hassles giving you a peace of mind when riding. And we can’t forget to mention the fact that the bike is virtually bulletproof.

Technically, the 2010 BMW R1200 GS goes by the GS and the HP2 name. The HP2 acronym stands for the bike’s most outstanding feature; the High Performance 2 cylinder. This cylinder consists of twin overhead cams and four valves per cylinder for more effective burn and transfer of gases. The bulbous cylinder heads will protect your legs if the bike goes down on a wet road.

The R1200 GS possesses an air/oil cooled “Boxer” engine, which is known as the signature of BMW’s classics. At 100 horsepower, the 1170 cc motor has been created to deliver a more sharper acceleration and torque at lower speeds. The engine possesses a bore and stroke of 101.0mm x 73.0mm, with the new HP2 heads pumping up the bike’s power to 110 horsepower at 7,750 rpm.

The bike’s adjustable height of 33.5 and 34.2-inches will protect it’s rider from any mud and water while on the go; with an optional low seat to give shorter riders a safer ride.

Aside from the BMW R1200 GS’ new paint finishes, the motorbike is also equipped with a 5.2-gallon gas tank and an on-road mileage of around 42 mpg. When the tank is full, the bike weighs in at just 500 pounds, and can feel top-heavy. The GS also features a unique off-road ESA and ASC and extensive motorcycle fittings.

With regards on the frame, this fascinating sportbike owns a thick tubular steel trellis frame with a 59.3-inch wheelbase. For the brakes, the R1200 GS uses a single 265mm disc and 2-piston caliper on the back, while up front dual 305mm rotors are combined to 4-piston calipers for a strong braking action.

Cory Ness rubber mount Y2K

Jeff Goudreau was a longtime Softail rider, but after trying out one of Cory Ness’s rubber mount steeds, he caught the bug to build a machine with the smooth riding quality of Harley’s Dyna, only more stylish: a chopper. And that led him back to his old buddy with an idea-why not make a rubber mount chopper based on Ness’ Y2K frame?

He started by bolting up the rolling chassis. Speedpoint wheels with Avon shoes and Ness/PM brake set ups were mated to the rear swingarm and for the front end, 12-inch-over Ness forks were added. With that done, he got to work on the motor.

As mentioned earlier, the frame geometry was set up for relative comfort, but that doesn’t mean Jeff’s machine is a riding couch with a modest motor; no, no. He shoehorned a 124-inch S&S beast into the frame to give him gobs of power with a twist of the throttle. There, it was connected to a Roadmax transmission and BDL drive set up. He rounded out the V-twin package with a set of Ness pipes.

The rest of Jeff’s chopper also takes its styling cues from the Ness shop with a few notable exceptions: an Independent gas tank, Dakota Digital gauges, and a Danny Gray seat.

Once Goudreau was happy with the mock up, he tore it down and gave the raw metal over to Jeff McCann for a healthy dose of PPG black paint. Shortly thereafter, the bike was back together and Jeff was on his way, tearing up roads all over Northern California.

Not only was Jeff stoked with his ride, but it had a bit of a ripple effect with Cory who used it as the inspiration for Ness’ rubber mount Y2K, which is now available as both frame and rolling chassis. One friend got a great bike, the other got a great new design for his customers, and both benefited from having a good longstanding friendship.

2011 Yamaha Fazer 8

2011 Yamaha Fazer 8

Based on our successful FZ1 platform, the new Fazer 8 sports a 779cc, four cylinder engine that is tuned for plenty of low and mid range torque, making every ride an exciting experience.

Just like its naked FZ8 cousin, the Fazer 8 is a brilliant “all-rounder” that can slice through city traffic or apex a series of corners on your favourite twisty road. Attitude, power, handling and style, the Fazer 8 is an everyday sport bike you will be proud to own.

Class, comfort, confidence

If you’ve only got room for one roadbike in your garage, choose one that ticks all the boxes – serious performance and good looks, plus genuine all-round versatility,

With a muscular, torquey 779cc engine, the Fazer8 breathes new life into the mid-class bike category. Open the throttle and enjoy the instant torque for easy overtaking and superb grunt around town. Keep it pinned for a shot of sports bike adrenaline with that trademark Yamaha top-end surge.

Comfortable, confident and classy, the semi-faired Fazer8 is a powerful companion – an all-weather all-rounder with the ability to make any ride a high-performance sports ride.

If you’ve only got room for one roadbike in your garage, choose one that ticks all the boxes – serious performance and good looks, plus genuine all-round versatility, With a muscular, torquey 779cc engine, the Fazer8 breathes new life into the mid-class bike category. Open the throttle and enjoy the instant torque for easy overtaking and superb grunt around town. Keep it pinned for a shot of sports bike adrenaline with that trademark Yamaha top-end surge. Comfortable, confident and classy, the semi-faired Fazer8 is a powerful companion – an all-weather all-rounder with the ability to make any ride a high-performance sports ride.

The Fazer8 – serious performance, total versatility

Yamaha’s FZ range packages supersports performance into a versatile chassis for everyday enjoyment. The Fazer8 breathes new life into the mid-class bike category, with a bigger, broader spread of power out of the flexible FZ8 powerplant. The Fazer8 is set up for comfortable, fast road riding wherever you take it – whether it’s a high-performance city journey or a week away exploring the continent at full throttle. The front cowl and screen add weather protection and improved aerodynamics to a powerful sports bike engine and handling package.

Brand new for 2011

Yamaha is proud to announce two new motorcycles that open up a whole new class within the popular FZ sportsbike range – the FZ8 and the Fazer8. The FZ8-series is based on the idea of a high-performance all-rounder with the power and character to make every ride an exhilarating sports ride. The naked FZ8 is a machine with attitude. Muscular, aggressive design gives onlookers a hint of this bike’s serious intentions. Not a bike for beginners, the FZ8 is a pure expression of performance and quality craftsmanship.

With the semi-faired Fazer8, the emphasis is placed firmly on getting out there and enjoying the roads, whatever the weather. Discover sportsbike performance and handling, with the aerodynamics, wind and weather protection of a front cowl and screen. It’s a solid step up in performance and quality.

779cc 4-cylinder engine

In order to arrive at the perfect power and torque spread for a mix of high performance and all-round usability, Yamaha threw out all preconceptions about engine size. The 1000cc and 600cc categories that largely divide the market are imposed by racing regulations, not road riding considerations. Many riders find 600cc supersport engines to be hard work on the open road – and 1000cc superbike engines to be overkill.

Yamaha’s engineers selected a 779cc engine displacement to provide the perfect balance between the accessible performance of a 600 and the broad, instant torque and power of a litrebike.

The new FZ8-series engine is fuel injected, and uses both a throttle valve and an electronically controlled sub-throttle valve to provide additional control over intake airflow volume. The cylinder bodies have a bore and stroke from 68.0×53.6mm. Readings on engine rpm and throttle opening are processed in real time by the ECU, which operates a new stepping motor to control the sub-throttle valves and optimise volumetric efficiency in each part of the rev range. This is one of the many design considerations aimed at boosting low-middle drive.

Another key to the FZ8-series motor’s flexibility is found in the large-capacity 7.8 litre airbox, where the air intake funnels are two different lengths – cylinders 1 and 4 have 125mm intake funnels, where 2 and 3 are 150mm in length, producing an excellent spread of torque throughout the rev range.

The FZ8-series engine produces 106.2PS (78.1kW) at 10,000rpm, and a generous 82.0Nm of torque at 8,000rpm – with a character that feels light, torquey and responsive down low but builds to a signature Yamaha top-end power rush.

It easily clears EU3 exhaust emission standards, using a short, side mounted muffler and a 4-into-2-into-1 exhaust system with a honeycomb type catalytic converter fitted at the point where the header pipes meet. An oxygen sensor feeds real-time exhaust information back to the ECU, allowing the bike to constantly adjust its air/fuel mixture for optimum efficiency and clean emissions.

Chassis and running gear

The FZ8-series features a new engine that is a stressed member in an all-aluminium frame. The design’s high rigidity and low weight minimises frame torsion while providing outstanding high-speed stability and cornering confidence. The FZ8-series also uses a CF aluminium die-cast swing arm, enhancing the effectiveness of the rear suspension.

Front-end suspension is a pair of upside-down forks, running 43mm inner tubes. Rear suspension is handled by a linked Monocross unit – the link being designed to provide soft, light suspension near the top of the stroke to deal with bumpy surfaces in comfort, but then to provide firmer cushioning as the shock is further compressed, for sharper handling during hard cornering.

Front brakes are twin four-piston monoblock calipers, gripping 310mm floating front discs. Being monoblock designs, the calipers suffer minimal distortion under hard braking, so the stopping force is linear, stable and controllable when the chips are down. Both the naked FZ8 and semi-faired Fazer8 models are available with optional ABS.

The wheels are five-spoke cast aluminium rims – the front tyre is a 120/70 ZR17, and the rear is a 180/55 ZR17. This gives both bikes outstanding ride feeling, grip and cornering performance, with access to the full range of sports rubber.

The riding position is sporty but comfortable, with a seat height of 815mm and a narrow tank which gives the rider a good ground access. Overall ride experience is compact and light, with generous room for manoeuvring. Steering is quick and responsive, with an extended 33-degree left-to-right steering angle – making tight U-turns and peak-hour traffic busting much easier.

Muscular, mass-forward design

The FZ8-series consists of two models – the naked FZ8 and the semi-faired Fazer8 with a front cowl and screen. A short muffler, narrow tank and new 3-part tank cover instantly distinguish these bikes from their peers.

Visually, the FZ8 series evokes a pure release of energy in forward motion. The black side parts on the tank provide comfortable knee grip, and give the subtle impression that the coloured tank is breaking away and accelerating forward. The headlight unit on the naked FZ8 adds an aggressive-looking detail. In all, the visual impression is of a bike that looks fast even when it’s standing still – and that sensually curved diamond frame and muscular 4-cylinder engine are still the stars of the show.

2011 Yamaha FZ8

FZ8 Series

In Europe, Yamaha announced two new motorcycles that open up a whole new class within the popular FZ sportsbike range – the FZ8 and the Fazer8. The FZ8-series is based on the idea of a high-performance all-rounder with the power and character to make every ride an exhilarating sports ride.  The new FZ8 is a brilliant “all-rounder” that brings fun, excitement and adrenalin to each and every ride. It is ready to slice its way through the “twisties”, cruise the backroads in comfort and style or make that daily commute a bunch more enjoyable. Attitude, power, handling and style, the new FZ8 is the ultimate everyday sport bike.

These dynamic new sports machines are built on a new 779cc engine and all-aluminium frame. The engine offers a balance of middleweight accessibility with big-bore power and instant grunt throughout the rev range. It steers fast and effortlessly, and handles with surefooted confidence – whether it’s cranked right over on a tight, smooth corner or slicing its way through traffic on a congested commute. The FZ8 is not a bike for beginners – it’s the naked sportsbike with true attitude and the power to back it up.

Muscular, Mass-forward Design

The FZ8-series consists of two models – the naked FZ8 and the semi-faired Fazer8 with a front cowl and screen. A short muffler, narrow tank and new 3-part tank cover instantly distinguish these bikes from their peers. Visually, the FZ8 series evokes a pure release of energy in forward motion. The black side parts on the tank provide comfortable knee grip, and give the subtle impression that the coloured tank is breaking away and accelerating forward. The headlight unit on the naked FZ8 adds an aggressive-looking detail. In all, the visual impression is of a bike that looks fast even when it’s standing still – and that sensually curved diamond frame and muscular 4-cylinder engine are still the stars of the show.

Brand new for 2011

Yamaha is proud to announce two new motorcycles that open up a whole new class within the popular FZ sportsbike range – the FZ8 and the Fazer8. The FZ8-series is based on the idea of a high-performance all-rounder with the power and character to make every ride an exhilarating sports ride.

Motorcycle Accessories

A range of genuine Yamaha functional and styling accessories is available to enhance the looks and extend the capabilities of the FZ8 and Fazer8.

The range includes:
• Higher windscreen for the Fazer8
• Stylish flyscreen for the FZ8
• Seat cover
• Subcowling
• Rear carrier
• 46L Topcase
• Passenger backrest for 46L topcase
• Innerbag for 46L topcase
• Grip heaters MC 120
• Passenger grab bars for the FZ8
• Main stand
• Radiator cover
• Engine guards
• Roller protectors
• Stylish license plate holder (available in April 2010)
• Tankpad
• Stylish LED indicators in black, chrome and carbon look (available end May 2010)
• TF Touring tank bag for the Fazer8
• TF City tank bag for the FZ8

Motorcycle Apparel

Yamaha offers a wide range of apparel, designed to keep riders and passengers stylish and protected. The apparel range includes the following riding gear among others:

• Yamaha Speedblock 1pc and 2pc men’s riding leathers in regular and long sizes, available in blue, black
• Yamaha Speedblock men’s gloves, available in blue, black
• Yamaha Classic Kiron men’s riding jacket, available in blue, black, red
• Yamaha Classic Venturi S2 men’s and women’s riding jacket, available in blue, red, black
• Yamaha Classic Venturi S2 gloves, available in blue, red, black
• Yamaha Iwata men’s riding jacket and trousers, available in black
• Yamaha Iwata women’s riding jacket and trousers, available in black, white

2011 FZ8 and Fazer8 | Motorcycle Technical Specifications

ENGINE
Type Liquid cooled 4-stroke,DOHC
Forward-inclined parallel 4-cylinder
Displacement 779cc
Bore x stroke 68.0×53.6mm
Compression ratio 12.0 : 1
Max. Power 78.1KW(106.2PS)/10000r/min
Max. Torque 82.0Nm(8.4kgf･m)/8000r/min
Lubrication system Wet sump
Fuel supply system Electronic Fuel Injection
Clutch type Wet, multiple-disc coil spring
Ignition system Transistorized coil ignition
Starter system Electric
Transmission system Constant mesh 6-speed
Final transmission system Chain
Primary reduction ratio 1.512(65/43)
Secondary reduction ratio 2.875(46/16)
Gear ratio 1st gear 2.692(35/13)
Gear ratio 2nd gear 2.063(33/16)
Gear ratio 3rd gear 1.762(37/21)
Gear ratio 4th gear 1.522(35/23)
Gear ratio 5th gear 1.350(27/20)
Gear ratio 6th gear 1.208(29/24)

CHASSIS
Frame Diamond frame
Front suspension Telescopic fork
Front wheel travel 130mm
Rear suspension Swingarm (link suspension)
Rear wheel travel 130 mm
Caster angle 25º
Trail 109mm
Front brake Hydraulic dual disc brake, Ø 310mm
Rear brake Hydraulic single disc brake, Ø 267mm
Front tyre 120/70 ZR17 M/C(58W)
Rear tyre 180/55 ZR17 M/C(73W)

DIMENSIONS

Overall length 2,140mm
Overall width 770mm
Overall height FZ8: 1,065mm
Fazer8: 1,225mm
Seat height 815mm
Wheelbase 1,460mm
Min. ground clearance 140mm
Wet weight (full fuel tank) FZ8: 211kg / ABS 216kg
Fazer8: 215kg / ABS 220kg
Fuel capacity 17 litres
Oil capacity 3.8 litres