This results in a relatively long wheelbase, which hampered it when used for short circuit racing, but lowered the centre of gravity and provided an almost 50/50 weight distribution.

[2] Yamaha began development in 1977 to replace the highly successful but then limited future two stroke motorcycles.

[3] The FZ750 would be the first motorcycle in what would become the Genesis concept where the advanced liquid-cooled multi-valve engine and perimeter type steel chassis would be designed to function together to provide enhanced power and handling.

The FZ750 uses a six-speed sequential close ratio gearbox; the gear shafts are only removable by splitting the crankcase halves.

A safety feature of the FZ750 is that the engine ignition is cut if first gear is selected with the sidestand down; this is commonplace on modern motorcycles.

The rear shock absorber which is remote adjustable for damping and spring preload is placed vertically behind the engine and connects to an extruded aluminium alloy swinging arm to provide a rising-rate suspension via two forged aluminium link arms.

The FZ750 was also fitted with an AC Alternator (automotive) and not a fixed magnet Dynamo Generator and therefore does not need the separate regulator/rectifier which was common on other machines.

The starter motor is mounted behind the cylinder block and drives the secondary shaft via a Sprag clutch.

Very early models had an older style removable filler cap, large square indicators and ventilated discs brakes.

A considerable redesign saw a slight weight loss and a move to make the machine arguably more suitable for sports touring.

Most noticeable was new full fairing panels, new sidepanels and a redesigned rear subframe that had integrated number plate/rear light.

The rear footpegs were now separate items with cast aluminum hangers and the machines now sported a red or blue 'speedblock' color scheme.

In the United Kingdom and possibly other markets, some unsold 2MG bikes were brought up to series 3 standard, many were not registered until 1989 or later, but still carried the 2MG suffix.

Despite being outwardly similar to any other series 2 machine, the engine had more in common with the FZR750 with lightweight pistons and connecting rods.

Using a mixture of parts from previous Yamaha and FZ750 models the machine had a single seat and provision for police equipment, including a calibrated Speedometer.

Designed for competition in the AMA Superbike Championship Daytona 200, this machine was based on the FZ750 production model.

The engine featured a modified forward inclination of the cylinders from 45° to 35° to accommodate the shortened wheelbase and the adoption of the ram air intake system.

The bike still remains popular in the hands of privateers and is eligible for the Superstock racing class around the world.

[11][12][13] In 1986 three Italian riders Norberto Naummi, Roberto Ghillani and Maurizio Foppiani attempted to break the non-stop endurance record which had been set by an Australian team nine years earlier.

A blown main fuse on 8 September put an end to the attempt to further the record after 560 hours and 30370km, at which point the FZ750 had run for continually for 23 days.