Always underestimated, Yamaha’s Thunderace offers true bullet style performance. In 1996 when it was introduced, it was a leader in terms of performance and style and only the current competition, including the R1 from it’s own stable, have cast a shadow over what is still a superb motorcycle.

A relatively comfortable way of covering huge distances at high speed and having some fun into the bargain is the way to look at the Thunderace. It’s stable, predictable, and reliable and has enough grunt to make it one of the choices on your Sports/Tourer list.

Good for 168mph with 145bhp and brakes to match, the performance in either department is never in question.

The 1102cc 4-cylinder inline engine has the marque’s typical forward slant design and has 5-valves per cylinder with DOHC. Fuel is fed via 4x38mm Mikuni carburettors.

Fitted with Yamaha’s EXUP valve, which effectively tunes the exhaust system to optimise the torque at any given engine speed, providing smooth power delivery throughout the rev range. The massive torque and style of power delivery means five gears are all that are needed, although notchy, gear selection is positive and light.

The all alloy chassis is in Yamaha’s familiar Deltabox style with two huge beams flowing from the headstock around the rigidly mounted engine.

The swingarm is square section alloy controlled by a single, adjustable shock with rising rate linkage. Front forks are conventional 48mm and fully adjustable.

Brakes are semi-floating discs squeezed by 4 pistons in one-piece calipers on the front allowing 2 fingered braking, with a twin piston set-up on the rear, which is adequate but lacks feel. The fairing gives the rider good protection, even though the screen is a bit on the low side. It looks a bit odd initially, protruding forward towards the front wheel, but this design allows it to form a duct, forcing air to the cooling system’s radiator.

The pillion seat is by no means the best, but it is better than some of the all out sports bikes. There is storage for a U-lock under the seat. There are 6 bungee hooks under the pillion seat area for attaching luggage without damaging paintwork.

The instruments are minimal but usable, with just the temperature gauge in addition to the standard speedometer and rev counter.

The fuel tank holds 20 litres giving a usable 160+ mile range. Not as good as some, but better than others.

Altogether a very functional motorcycle, fit for a tour of Europe but still scare you silly at the weekends when it needs to.

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Last updated 25/04/02