25 Years Ago November 1986
25 YEARS AGO NOVEMBER 1986
Historically, the last few issues of the year provide readers with enticing information on upcoming new models. While this coverage typically includes technical previews or the occasional early riding impression, this November issue offered sport-minded readers a special treat. The cover featured a 750cc sportbike exclusive showcasing the long-awaited 1987 Kawasaki Ninja 750R, which received the full road-test treatment in addition to a track and street comparison against the best of the class of'86. In the end, the liquid-cooled Ninja lived up to the hype, upping the ante over its air-cooled GPz predecessor and holding its own against the Honda VFR750 Interceptor, Suzuki GSX-R750 and Yamaha FZ750.
• Off-roaders were not overlooked, as a section titled "All The Latest Dirt" took a look at the newest crop of Japanese motocross bikes. The theme for the coming year was described as evolutionary refine ment rather than revolutionary change. The big gest news was Suzuki's RM125 and 250cc mod els each getting a guillotinetype exhaust valve and new suspension. Editors sur mised that the minor updates reflected "just how good today's moto cross bikes are to start with."
•Contrary to, dare I say, today’s oppressive environmentally correct movement, I found a product evaluation of the Kimberly-Clark Tough Cat Oil Dump perversely refreshing. This disposal system consisted of a cardboard box housing a plastic bag filled with cellulose material capable of absorbing up to five quarts of waste oil. instructions said to “use the included tie wrap to seal the bag, close the box and throw it out with your garbage.” My, how times and practices have changed. —Don Canet
