Japanese Superbikes For Sale

The 1980’s saw the Japanese ‘big 4’ manufacturers pushing technological development to still higher levels of sophistication with bikes such as Kawasaki’s GPZ900R which was capable of more than 150mph in standard form and, later in 1985, with the introduction of the Suzuki GSX-R750 which featured ‘race replica’ styling and, by the standards of the day, was light. Tipping the scales at just 176Kg, the early Gixxer 750 is considered by many to be the first of the race inspired Japanese sports bikes, but by the end of the decade added performance had also added weight, and sporting riders began to seek alternatives – bikes which offered greater power, less weight and more agile handling. Yamaha’s FZR1000 offered nearly 150bhp, and a top speed of almost 170mph, but weighing in at over 200Kg it was never going to match the handling capabilities of smaller machines.

The Honda CBR Fireblade introduced in 1992 was a groundbreaking machine. Originally conceived as a 750cc bike, and therefore of smaller proportions and weight than had previously been the case, the new Fireblade featured an 893cc motor which developed 125 bhp and had stunning performance. It was immediately a worldwide sales success, proving beyond doubt that riders were looking for more than just brute power (though the ‘Blade had it in spades!), they also wanted a bike which was closer allied to those on the race tracks. Kawasaki responded with the ZX9-R which was also well received by the bike buying public, but although it was more powerful than the Honda Fireblade, the Ninja was also some 30Kg heavier and didn’t have the overall agility that the Honda possessed. Yamaha offered the YZF1000R Thunderace from 1996, but it wasn’t until 1998 that the company’s flagship superbike, the YZF1000 R1 was introduced, a model which is still in production today and has remained a firm favourite with superbike buyers.

If you want to buy a Japanese superbike, there are now plenty of options, whether you are looking for a seventies retro machine, or a modern road rocket. Earlier machines such as the Honda CB750 and Kawasaki Z1 have already achieved classic status (and lofty prices!), whilst eighties superbikes can still be picked up fairly cheaply if you search carefully. All of these bikes are relatively sophisticated in their construction, so should be checked over carefully before you part with your cash. Parts for older Japanese bikes are getting harder to find, particularly if you need bodywork or trim, though sourcing mechanical and service items should be relatively straightforward. As always when looking to buy a used bike, it will pay to buy the best you can afford. A rebuild on a 1000cc 4-cylinder motor is likely to be expensive and on an older machine can quickly exceed the value of the bike. Similarly wear on consumables such as tyres and brake components is likely to be much greater than on less powerful machines. Many Japanese superbikes will also have found their way on to the race track, so check for obvious signs of competition use such as lock wired drain plugs, aftermarket fairings, or poorly repaired accident damage. Importantly, if you are in any doubt at all, get the bike professionally checked over before you buy it.