XJR 1200

1996 Yamaha XJR 1200 Technical Analysis & Specification Breakdown

Built around Yamaha's naked motorcycle platform, the 1996 Yamaha XJR 1200 relies on a 1188 cc (72.5 cu in) in-line four, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 98 HP (71.5 kW) at 8,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 81 Nm (59.7 lb-ft) at 6,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 5-speed gearbox. With a specific output of 82.5 HP per liter and a 2,000 rpm working window between peak torque (6,000 rpm) and peak power (8,000 rpm), the engine character is indicating a tractable, stress-free state of tune focused on everyday usability and broad torque delivery.

On the scales, the XJR 1200 measures 232 kg (511 lbs) dry, translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.42 HP/kg (2.37 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 790 mm (31.1 in) seat height — offering a neutral standover height that accommodates most average-inseam riders without sacrificing cornering clearance.

Within MotoLibrary's Yamaha archive, this model family spans 4 indexed model years from 1995 to 1998, allowing buyers to track year-over-year changes in emissions tuning, weight and equipment.