25 Years Ago May 1986

25 YEARS AGO MAY 1986

ROUNDUP

Totally appropriate for our current issue is the main cover subject a quarter-

century ago: the Yamaha Fazer 700.The tariff-busting, under-700cc engine kept the price down, while "almost instantaneous throttle response" kept the front wheel up. The

$3499 standard had a claimed 87 horsepower and ran an 11.83second, 114-mph quarter-mile.

•A test of the Honda VFR750 went into extensive detail about the changes made from the previous VF750, not least of which was the new 180-degree crank that replaced the 360-degree unit on the old bike. But the rest was significantly altered, too, from the stiff er aluminum frame, redone suspension and more. It lost a significant 41 pounds, but its 474-lb. dry weight still made it 51 lb. heavier than the Suzuki GSX-R750.

• Dirtmongers would have been pleased with the 125cc motocross comparison test. Called "Heavy-Duty Warfare Between the Lightweights," it pitted KTM

vs. /s. vs. vs. And verdict Honda Kawasaki Yamaha Cagiva Suzuki. the was final this: "For our money... we'll take the easi est route to the checknonda's CR125."

•Senior Editor Ron Griewe, so often the man behind the moto handlebar, took a long trip to Italy to ride Kawasaki's then-new Concours. Overall, he was fairly impressed with the 1000cc sporttourer but did complain that the windscreen was on the thin and flimsy side, wiggling and shaking above 115 mph. Sounds like a great ride! —Mark Hoyer