The 1987 Yamaha FZR 1000 Genesis is a lightweight sport bike suited for performance-minded riders seeking agile handling and potent acceleration. Its 989cc five-valve engine delivers 135 horsepower with a competitive power-to-weight ratio, making it renowned for being one of the first truly modern superbikes that balanced raw speed with everyday usability.
Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Off-road & trail5%
Cornering82%
City riding45%
Daily riding50%
Touring45%
Two-up40%
Track85%
Best for
Built as a pioneering late-1980s open-class sportbike, it excels at fast road riding, sport touring at pace, and spirited cornering rather than utilitarian commuting.
Built for
The FZR1000 Genesis has a raw, visceral character with strong midrange pull and a top-end rush typical of a five-valve DOHC four, rewarding an assertive riding style.
Not ideal for
This is not the right bike for new riders, those seeking plush comfort, or anyone wanting off-road capability.
Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.
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