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Yamaha FJ1200
80/100 Overall
82 On the road78 As a classic
Classic motorcycle head-to-head
Yamaha FJ1200 vs Yamaha VMAX 1200
Yamaha FJ1200 scores 80/100 overall against Yamaha VMAX 1200 on 83/100. On the road: 82–75. As classics: 78–90. Overall result: Yamaha VMAX 1200.
Photo: Alfredino 246 · CC BY-SA 4.0
Yamaha VMAX 1200
83/100 Overall
75 On the road90 As a classic
The numbers
Category-by-category result
| Category | Yamaha FJ1200 | Yamaha VMAX | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| road | |||
| PerformanceDirect comparison of power, acceleration and usable performance across the pre-1990 classic field. | 9 | 10 | Yamaha VMAX |
| HandlingSteering, stability, weight and real-road manners. | 7 | 6 | Yamaha FJ1200 |
| BrakingDirect comparison of real stopping ability without an age allowance. | 8 | 7 | Yamaha FJ1200 |
| ReliabilityEngine, electrics and general dependability when properly maintained. | 8 | 8 | Level |
| Ease of ownershipMaintenance, parts supply and access to specialist knowledge. | 8 | 7 | Yamaha FJ1200 |
| ComfortRiding position, vibration and suitability for longer journeys. | 9 | 7 | Yamaha FJ1200 |
| classic | |||
| StylingDesign quality, visual presence and period appeal. | 8 | 9 | Yamaha VMAX |
| Historical importanceInfluence on motorcycling and importance within its era. | 8 | 9 | Yamaha VMAX |
| Collector appealLong-term desirability among classic motorcycle enthusiasts. | 7 | 8 | Yamaha VMAX |
| CharacterSound, feel, personality and memorable riding experience. | 8 | 10 | Yamaha VMAX |
Choose the Yamaha FJ1200 if…
you want effortless big-bore performance, long-distance comfort and one of the defining 1980s sports tourers.
Choose the Yamaha VMAX if…
you want immense straight-line performance, unmistakable muscle-bike styling and one of the 1980s' most memorable engines.
Background
History
Yamaha FJ1200
The Yamaha FJ1200 was produced from 1986–1989 and used a 1188cc air-cooled inline four. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for performance, comfort, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Yamaha VMAX
The Yamaha VMAX 1200 was produced from 1985–1989 and used a 1198cc liquid-cooled V4. Within this comparison library it stands out particularly for performance, character, styling. It suits riders who value the qualities described in its original profile rather than choosing by specification alone.
Interesting details
Did you know?
Yamaha FJ1200
- Its production span in this library runs from 1986 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 1188cc air-cooled inline four.
- Its strongest comparison scores are performance, comfort, styling.
Yamaha VMAX
- Its production span in this library runs from 1985 to 1989.
- The recorded engine description is: 1198cc liquid-cooled V4.
- Its strongest comparison scores are performance, character, styling.
Present-day appeal
Collector notes
Yamaha FJ1200
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha FJ1200. Its library score for performance is 9/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Yamaha VMAX
Collector interest is strongest where condition, originality and correct period details support the identity of the Yamaha VMAX 1200. Its library score for performance is 10/10. Values and desirability can vary substantially between years, specifications and restoration quality, so individual examples should be assessed on their own evidence.
Before you buy
Buying checks
Yamaha FJ1200
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Check carburettor balance, charging output and exhaust condition across all cylinders.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Yamaha VMAX
- Confirm the frame and engine identity match the advertised model and year.
- Check cold starting, smoke, oil leaks and unusual mechanical noise.
- Inspect the frame, wheels, brakes and suspension for wear, damage or poor repairs.
- Verify that important model-specific parts have not been replaced with incorrect later components.
- Review the paperwork, ownership history and any restoration invoices before purchase.
Period opposition
Historic rivals
Rivals to the Yamaha FJ1200
Rivals to the Yamaha VMAX
Final result
The verdict
Yamaha FJ1200 wins the direct on-the-road comparison. Yamaha VMAX 1200 wins the classic-motorcycle comparison. Yamaha VMAX 1200 takes the overall result after the road and classic scores are weighted equally.