Yamaha

FJ 1200 ABS -1990

Safety first

Launched in 1984, the FJ 1200 created a sensation with its dramatic lines which have scarcely dated and with the design of its cycle components which have served as a role model for just about every racing and sporting bike since then. The FJ supplements its classic tubular frame with a lateral frame whose substantial upper cradle surrounds the engine and guarantees excellent torsional rigidity while giving complete accessibility to

the mechanics once the tank has been removed.

Standard of Reference

Conceived as a supersports bike, the FJ has mellowed over the years. Outgunned on sheer performance by the younger generation of motorcycles, the FJ has become a standard of reference for grand touring bikes. This four-cylinder superbike with its great reserves of torque was upgraded from 1100cc to 1200 cc in 1986. New flexible mountings for the engine, adopted in 1981, have isolated the rider from vibration, while the upper part of the fairing, more generously proportioned and fitted with a taller, carefully profiled windshield, cuts down wind eddies.

Anti-Lock Braking

Seven years after its launch, the evergreen FJ took a major step forward with the adoption of ABS. While BMW had paved the way in 1988 by introducing the first series production bike with electronically controlled anti-lock brakes, Yamaha's ABS system, with a further three years of development behind it, was particularly sweet in operation.

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine: Air-cooled 1188cc (77x63.8mm) fourcylinder four-stroke

Power Rating: 107 hp @ 8500 rpm

Valves: twin overhead camshafts, 24 valves

Fuel System: four carburetors

Transmission: 5-speed; chain final drive

Suspension: telescopic fork (front); single suspension unit (rear)

Brakes: twin disks (front); disk (rear)

Wheels: radial tires; 17in (front); 16in (rear)

Weight: 529 lb

Maximum Speed: 140 mph 

The anti-lock braking system fitted to the Fj 1200 gives a high level of security by enabling the rider to brake no matter what the conditions are beneath his wheels.