Yamaha FAZER

[racingter]

There should not be any issues as we have gone on rides with a lot of FZ6 with panniers.

 

The racks they come with gives enough clearance and does not sit directly on the pipes anyway..... if ur pillion wont burn his or her ass... i think the plastic box wont affect at all.

 

BUt yeah... no issues with panniers.

 

 

yo bro i think he is refering to side bags.....Not the side solid panniers lar..

[fir_chan]

yo bro i think he is refering to side bags.....Not the side solid panniers lar..

 

Wah.... the soft bags... like this hard to say what type of bags is being used.

 

Maybe lah...not hard panniers than i really bo idea...

[racingter]

Wah.... the soft bags... like this hard to say what type of bags is being used.

 

Maybe lah...not hard panniers than i really bo idea...

 

 

yah i use b4 for touring i know..and also the positioning quite diff....the side is a bit slang when placed at my tail......i think the side sofr panniers is more or bikes with straight tails bah...

[Asap]

Hi Fazerians,

 

 

Has any1 fix this Givi V35 panniers on ur Fz6. Any idea how much?

[rickur]

Heh - have just bought an 04 Fazer Z6. It is in need of some new tyres. looking for something that is good in the wet and reasonable mileage. What do you suggest? Do you guys ride together much?

[who_noe]

yo bro i think he is refering to side bags.....Not the side solid panniers lar..

ya.. i talking about the side bags..i have a pair of viper side bags

 

Wah.... the soft bags... like this hard to say what type of bags is being used.

 

Maybe lah...not hard panniers than i really bo idea...

soft side bags

 

yah i use b4 for touring i know..and also the positioning quite diff....the side is a bit slang when placed at my tail......i think the side sofr panniers is more or bikes with straight tails bah...

from ur avatar pic,i believe urs is FZ1?

 

i asking about FZ6

[racingter]

Heh - have just bought an 04 Fazer Z6. It is in need of some new tyres. looking for something that is good in the wet and reasonable mileage. What do you suggest? Do you guys ride together much?

 

 

u can try pilot road 2 dual compound..

 

review for a lot of fazer riders...it's GOOD!!!

[racingter]

from ur avatar pic,i believe urs is FZ1?

 

i asking about FZ6

 

 

i see.....hehe.......

[racingter]

hi guys...a givi top box on a FZ 6 is for sale with givi bracket...

 

box comes with brake light as well....

 

link http://www.singaporebikes.com/forums/showthread.php?t=204219

[chawanmushi]

riding up to phuket in sept....u interested..?

 

my bike cannot make it there la... =(

[racingter]

my bike cannot make it there la... =(

 

y not?this coming trip there's a vara 125 p plate some more..following me up...

 

he had proven..

 

if there's a will

 

there's a way

 

good luck bro..

[who_noe]

my bike cannot make it there la... =(

 

it all in ur mind brother

 

2b scooter has even made it to phuket...

 

my scooter has made it to hatyai

[racingter]

it all in ur mind brother

 

2b scooter has even made it to phuket...

 

my scooter has made it to hatyai

 

U r the man!!!

[racingter]

Master piece of an art...ART of NAKED!!!!

[racingter]

2006 FZ1 & FZ1 Fazer;

 

Designed for a wide audience;

 

The new FZ and FZ Fazer are designed to appeal to a diverse group of riders, including owners of the existing Fazer 000, and also riders of other large capacity naked and faired sports bikes.

 

With its combination of an R -based engine, an advanced and lightweight cast aluminium chassis, and exceptional real-world versatility, the new FZ offers class-leading levels of engine and chassis performance, and looks set to become the industry standard in the large-capacity naked sports bike sector. And for those riders looking for a high specification sports bike that offers extra longer-distance comfort, the faired FZ Fazer fits the bill perfectly.

 

Another target group for the new FZ and FZ Fazer are those supersport riders who are rediscovering the versatility and excitement of modern sports bikes. Drastic changes in the traffic environment in many European countries - including new speed limits and higher insurance costs - are already affecting many supersport riders' attitudes. With its R -like levels of acceleration together with remarkable driveability and an awesome mid-range punch, these new one-litre sports bikes are designed to appeal to those riders who appreciate that excitement, passion and emotion can also be experienced at real-world speeds.

 

Specially-tuned version of the legendary R1 engine;

 

The new FZ and FZ Fazer are powered by a specially-tuned version of the latest R 's 998 cc in-line 4-cylinder engine that has made its name as one of the most impressive performers in the one-litre supersport category, on the road and on the race track.

 

Both the naked FZ and the faired Fazer 000 are designed for riders who are looking for a versatile machine that delivers class-leading performance, and in order to achieve these goals, the legendary R engine was chosen as the starting point for the project. This free-revving, short-stroke 998 cc fuel-injected engine has already established a reputation amongst supersport riders for its remarkable performance as well as its wide spread of torque and outstanding reliability, and therefore the designers agreed unanimously that this was the ideal basis for these new models.

 

The typical usage characteristics of both the FZ and FZ Fazer will be significantly different from the R , and for this reason the development team have made a significant number of changes to the stock R engine. However, this new engine is designed to deliver the same extreme levels of excitement and exhilaration as the R!

 

The basic architecture of the FZ /FZ Fazer engine remains virtually identical to the base R unit: it is a 998 cc liquid-cooled DOHC in-line four-cylinder 5-valve engine with fuel injection, running with bore and stroke dimensions of 77 x 53.6 mm. And with identical crankcases, pistons, cylinder and cylinder head, the R-series heritage is clearly evident in the genes of the new engine. Owners can rest assured that the advanced technology that has made the R such an outstanding success comes as standard equipment on this new high-performance street bike.

 

Some of the features that are carried straight across from the R include lightweight forged pistons, a highly rigid closed deck cylinder design, linerless directly coated cylinders for excellent heat dissipation, and FS (fracturesplit) connecting rods.

 

Nevertheless, although the new engine benefits from plenty of the R 's thoroughbred genes, its advanced technical specification differs in crucial areas. In order to create a high performance powerplant that produces even stronger mid-range torque, a significant number of changes have been made.

 

Optimisation of flywheel mass for stronger mid-range torque One of the most significant changes seen on the new engine is the use of a completely new flywheel design. It is this feature in particular that helps to boost the mid-range torque output of the legendary 998 cc engine, giving it class-leading acceleration and remarkable throttle response in every gear.

 

With a crank inertial mass that is a full 40% higher than on the R , the new flywheel design is one of the main factors in creating an engine with outstanding all-round performance combined with a truly exhilarating and exciting character.

 

High levels of rear wheel drive force;

 

The rear wheel drive force has a major influence on the character and performance of every motorcycle. Evaluating this facet of a bike's character is often left to the subjective opinions of road testers, but the actual value of rear wheel drive force can be accurately calculated by using a formula that quantifies the relationship between the torque value at the drive axle, the ratio of a specific gear, and the rear tyre diameter.

 

As previously stated, a major goal of the design team was to create an engine that would offer superb performance characteristics in the mid-speed range. Or, in other words, we aimed to build an engine that would be exciting, versatile and easy to use in today's typical 'real world' situations.

 

This has been achieved by focusing on attaining the most desirable rear wheel drive force values in the chosen speed range. Factors that have a positive influence on the engine character include the greatly increased crank inertial mass; the new-generation EXUP; revised 5th and 6th gear ratios (compared with the R ); the lower .5: compression ratio; and the use of a 90/50ZR 7 rear tyre with an external diameter of 622 mm.

 

All of these features have worked together to increase rear wheel drive force by 7% in the crucial mid-speed range when compared with the R . To the new model's rider, this increased rear wheel drive force translates into truly exhilarating acceleration in the mid-speed bracket that is experienced in the typical urban/suburban riding situation. And out on the highway, this 7% increase in drive force makes for outstandingly strong roll-on acceleration.

 

Fuel injection with sub-throttle valve;

 

Another of the major advances is the adoption of fuel injection, which replaces the BSR37 carburettors that were used on the 2005 FZS 000 model. The injector is a four-hole two-way design featuring a long plate-type nozzle which ensures efficient fuel delivery across a wide engine speed range.

 

This advanced system uses the same intake structure as the R , and benefits from a sub-throttle valve actuated by the 32-bit ECU which constantly adjusts the sub-valve to match rpm and throttle opening.

 

By optimising the intake air speed, this sophisticated fuel injection system helps to achieve optimum volumetric efficiency, and in doing so it makes for excellent driveability - particularly in the low to mid-speed ranges.

 

Chamberless exhaust pipes and short silencer with 3-way catalyser Another important feature which has been developed in order to achieve stronger performance in the important mid-speed zone is the stainless steel chamberless 4-into-2-into- exhaust pipe design and short silencer.

 

The length and diameter of the new exhaust system have been selected to enhance the characteristics of the versatile new engine, while the new ultra-short silencer features highly-efficient hexagonal shaped internals which incorporate a 3-way catalyser with an O2 (lambda) sensor. The sensor constantly monitors oxygen concentration inside the exhaust, and relays this information to the intake system, which adjusts the fuel supply accordingly. This system ensures highly efficient engine performance at all running speeds and conditions, and also enables both models to exceed EU3 requirements.

 

In addition to its technological benefits, the short muffler also makes for a condensed silhouette, and in doing so it helps emphasise the models' compact and concentrated appearance.

 

Compact EXUP system;

 

The EXUP (Exhaust Ultimate Powervalve) is the industry's most advanced exhaust gas management system, and has been used successfully for many years on various Yamaha road and race machinery. By controlling exhaust gas flow rates by means of a valve, the Yamaha EXUP system prevents 'blow back' caused by pressure within the exhaust coinciding with the intake and exhaust valve overlap period. The EXUP system fitted to both the FZ and FZ Fazer is a further development of the R 's compact EXUP design, and features a steel valve located just beyond where the four header pipes merge into one.

 

By boosting low to mid-range torque, the EXUP valve contributes to the models' outstanding driveability in the most commonly-experienced mid-speed range associated with typical all-round usage.

 

Optimised gear ratios;

 

To complement the internal engine modifications that are aimed at enhancing the 998 cc R -based engine's power delivery characteristics, the engine runs with revised 5th and 6th gear ratios in order to optimise rear wheel drive force in the most commonly experienced speed range. Lower compression ratio; Revised camshaft profiles Another significant difference between the R engine and new FZ /FZ Fazer powerplant is the adoption of a lower compression ratio, which is down from 2.4: to .5: by adjusting gasket thickness.

 

At the same time, Yamaha's engineers have also developed new camshafts with milder profiles which, together with all the other specific features, make for superb flexibility combined with a truly exciting riding experience.

 

New curved radiator with dual ring fans;

 

For consistently strong running performance the new FZ /FZ Fazer are fitted with a large capacity curved radiator with a coolant capacity of 2.5 litres. Equipped with dual ring fans, this high-efficiency design offers a radiation capacity of 29 kW for effective heat dissipation in all conditions.

 

150 HP at 11,000 rpm;

 

The wide range of technical changes featured on the new models has helped to create a new classleading sports bike engine. Delivering 50 HP at ,000 rpm - together with extremely high levels of rear wheel drive force, these new motorcycles are designed to offer riders the exhilaration of a supersport machine combined with the day-to-day versatility of a street bike.

 

Technical Highlights;

# R derived 4-stroke liquid-cooled DOHC 998 cc in-line 4-cylinder engine

# Increased torque output

# 40% higher crank inertial mass

# 7% increase in rear wheel drive force compared with R

# 50 HP / ,000 rpm

# R bore and stroke: 77 x 53.6mm

# .5: compression ratio

# Closed deck cylinder

# Forged pistons

# Linerless directly coated cylinder

# FS (Fracture Split) connecting rods

# R -type fuel injection with sub-throttle valve

# New 5th and 6th gear ratios

# Modified camshaft profiles

# 3-way catalyser with lambda sensor

# Curved radiator with twin ring fan

# Chamberless 4-into-2-into- exhaust pipe and extra-short muffler

# Compact EXUP system

 

Chassis;

 

All-new cast aluminium frame;

 

The new FZ and FZ Fazer benefit from a completely new cast aluminium frame which has been designed to match the performance characteristics of the re-tuned 998 cc R -based engine. The compact new frame is 89 mm narrower than the 2005 design, and has been manufactured using Yamaha's pioneering metal mould casting system which allows our designers to build in an idealised rigidity balance for excellent handling qualities. This is achieved by varying the thickness of the aluminium in one millimetre increments to obtain the desired levels of rigidity in any one place.

 

For example, rigidity around the head pipe and swingarm pivot are at the highest level, while a degree of balanced flex has been deliberately engineered in at strategic points to enhance feedback from the road surface. By doing so, we have been able to create an all-new lightweight frame design which offers the optimum balance of vertical, torsional and lateral rigidity.

 

A newly designed slimline aluminium subframe incorporates the passenger footrest bracket mounts, further reducing weight and also ensuring that the clean lines of both models' rear ends are maintained.

 

998 cc engine used as stressed member;

 

Just like the YZF-R , and also our YZR-M MotoGP winning bikes, the new FZ and FZ Fazer utilise the slant-block 998 cc in-line four cylinder engine as a fully stressed member on the new aluminium frame.

 

Rigid mounts are used at a total of six positions, with two mounts on the rear of the cylinder head, and four mounts at the upper and lower crankcase and the rear of the engine. This proven method, where the engine is 'hung' from the frame, makes for high levels of vertical rigidity, which is a key factor in achieving optimum handling performance, and especially for high levels of stability during braking.

 

Long CF die-cast aluminium swingarm;

 

Another feature - that was originally developed for the YZF-R - is the extra-long truss-type aluminium swingarm. At 624 mm long, the new swingarm is 45 mm longer and is also more rigid than the 2005 design. The new swingarm is manufactured using Yamaha's exclusive 'CF die-cast' aluminium casting method which has enabled us to manufacture light and strong aluminium components.

 

The benefits of the long swingarm include a reduction in the negative effects of chain tension on driving force, and this type of swingarm is also associated with excellent handling and suspension characteristics.

 

Optimised frame geometry;

 

The main focus of the design team has been to create a new kind of high performance sports bike that offers new levels of driveability. With this goal in mind, we have carefully chosen the FZ /FZ Fazer's frame geometry so that it will deliver what we describe as athletic handling performance. Furthermore, both models have been designed to deliver plenty of feedback for truly enjoyable handling in a wide range of situations, from urban commuting through to corner carving along country roads.

 

A key factor in ensuring that both the FZ and FZ Fazer deliver class-leading handling is the 5 % front wheel weight distribution, and this has been made possible by shifting the engine forwards by 2 mm compared with the existing model. The caster angle has also been reduced to 25 degrees - one degree less than the 2005 FZS 000, and front fork offset is now 25 mm - a full 0 mm less than the 2005 model, and 5 mm less than the R.

 

The 5 % front wheel weight bias - combined with a compact ,460 mm wheelbase, 25 degree caster angle, 25 mm fork offset and 09 mm trail - make for responsive and agile sports handling qualities.

 

Forward riding position;

 

Another major contributory factor in any motorcycle's handling characteristics is the riding position, and on both models a great deal of effort has gone into creating a position that enhances handling performance, while at the same time delivers superb comfort. The new fuel tank is shorter than the FZS 000 design, and this, together with the longer rider's seat, allows the rider to sit 49 mm further forward on the bike. Furthermore, the handlebars are 25 mm lower and 0 mm closer to the rider, while the footrests are 6mm higher and 27 mm further back than the 2005 layout.

 

This much more sporty forward riding position makes a positive contribution to both models' agile and responsive handling qualities, and by positioning the rider closer to the front wheel, it also enhances the feeling of control.

 

In addition, the combination of the new slim cast aluminium frame and the forward riding position allows for excellent knee grip, to give enhanced ergonomics and a more involving and rewarding riding experience.

 

43 mm upside-down forks with separated damping functions The new upside-down front forks are the same diameter as those fitted to the YZF-R and feature 43 mm flex-resistant tubes for excellent suspension characteristics and smooth action over their entire 30 mm stroke.

 

One of the key features of these new forks is the fact that the damping functions are separated between each leg. The left fork leg contains the compression damping valves, while the right leg carries the rebound damping mechanism. By separating the front fork's compression and rebound damping functions in this way, each set of valves in each fork tube needs only to accommodate the oil flow in one direction, making for simplified settings.

 

This system has already been used successfully on Yamaha's YZR-M , and is another example of how sophisticated racing technology is transferred to Yamaha's road machines.

 

Dual 320 mm front discs;

 

The new braking system reflects the FZ and FZ Fazer's high performance potential, and so an extremely high specification design has been fitted. Dual front discs are 320 mm diameter - the same as the R - and these large-diameter discs are gripped by radially mounted 4-piston calipers. The MOS X 64 calipers are extremely resistant to deformation during braking, and subsequently this advanced system delivers excellent braking performance and accurate control.

 

At the rear wheel a lightweight 245 mm disc is slowed by a single-piston pin-slide type caliper which gives plenty of feel and a progressive action.

 

R1-style 5-spoke alloy wheels;

 

Even more supersport technology is evident in the lightweight 5-spoke wheels, which are the same specification as the R . Their advanced design incorporates varying thicknesses of metal at different places, and it is this feature that makes them both light and extremely strong.

 

The front wheel runs with a 20/70-ZR 7 tyre, while the rear wheel features a 90/50-ZR 7 tyre which plays a major role in achieving the models' extremely high levels of rear wheel drive force.

 

New instrumentation with fade-in function;

 

The compact new multi-function instrumentation consists of a digital speedometer situated on the left, and an analogue tachometer on the right. When the ignition is turned on the backlighting comes in slowly, and gradually gets brighter over the first few seconds. And, like the R , the new instrumentation features a brightness adjuster.

 

Also new for 2006 is a lightweight battery, and an immobiliser is fitted as standard equipment.

 

Muscular styling;

 

Every aspect of the new FZ and FZ Fazer has been designed to create a compact and concentrated muscular feel which draws the eye towards the engine as the focal point. The new cast aluminium frame appears to grasp the engine, and it seems that everywhere you look on this machine, it is crammed full with functional and beautifully-finished components.

 

This muscular and athletic character is particularly pronounced on the FZ , and the fact that this model is naked accentuates the compactness of the engine, chassis and bodywork, and emphasises the bike's brutal and aggressive image.

 

The centralisation of mass of these high specification sports bikes is further emphasised by the forward riding position and the short fuel tank, and everything from the short silencer to the compact instrumentation and slim tail unit enhance the concentration of power.

 

Technical Highlights;

# All new CF cast aluminium main frame - 52% lighter than 2005 design

# Main frame 89 mm narrower than 2005 design

# FZ Fazer overall weight 4 kg less than 2005 FZS

# Engine utilised as stressed member

# Long CF die-cast aluminium swingarm

# 5 %/49% front/rear wheel weight distribution

# Shorter 8-litre fuel tank

# Forward riding position

# Stylish aerodynamic fairing - FZ Fazer

# 460 mm wheelbase

# 25 degrees caster angle

# 09 mm trail

# 25 mm fork offset

# 43 mm upside-down forks with separated damping functions

# Dual 320 mm front discs with radially mounted brake calipers

# 245 mm rear disc

# R -style 5-spoke wheels

# Dual headlights - FZ Fazer

# New style single headlight - FZ

# New style tail light

# 90/50-ZR 7 rear tyre - 20/70-ZR 7 front tyre

# Compact digital/analogue instrumentation

# Compact and concentrated muscular body styling

 

FZ1 AND FZ1 Fazer;

 

Featuring the very latest engine and chassis technology - much of it transferred straight from the latest generation R - the new FZ and the FZ Fazer represent a bold and exciting new direction for the large capacity sports bike sector.

 

As well as being extremely versatile, these high performance, high specification sports bikes are designed to generate the highest levels of excitement, exhilaration and emotion in the class. And with their compact and muscular body styling, the naked FZ and the faired FZ Fazer look sure to attract even more attention to the one-litre sports category in 2006 and beyond.

 

Instant power and unrivalled mid-range riding fun Yamaha's designers set out to create two high performance machines that would offer a truly outstanding and emotive riding experience at typical 'real world' riding speeds. In order to achieve this goal the base 2005 R engine has been re-tuned to develop a massive pulse of mid-range torque for instant throttle response and truly exhilarating performance over a wide range of engine speeds.

 

At the same time, the stock R gearing has been reviewed, and gears 5 and 6 now run with revised ratios in order to optimise the outstanding mid-range punch of these muscular new one-litre street bikes.

 

In addition to the specially developed engine and gearbox, Yamaha have designed a completely new cast aluminium chassis and athletic new bodywork that have been developed specifically for the new FZ1.

# Engine Type - Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, forward inclined

# parallel 4-cylinder, DOHC Displacement - 998 cc

# Bore and stroke - 77.0 x 53.6 mm

# Compression ratio - 11.5:1

# Max. power - 110.3 kW (150 HP) @11,000 rpm

# Max. torque - 106.0 Nm (10.8 kg-m) @8,000 rpm

# Lubrication - Wet sump

# Fuel supply Fuel - injection

# Clutch type - Wet, multiple-disc

# Ignition - TCI (digital)

# Starter system - Electric

# Transmission - Constant mesh, 6-speed

# Final transmission - Chain

# Primary reduction ratio - 1.521

# Secondary reduction ratio - 2.647

# Gear ratio - 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th 2.533, 2.062, 1.762, 1.522, 1.350, 1.208

 

Chassis;

# Frame - Aluminium die-cast, diamond shaped

# Front suspension - Telescopic upside down forks

# Front wheel travel - 130 mm

# Rear suspension - Swingarm (link suspension)

# Rear wheel travel - 130 mm

# Caster angle - 25°

# Trial - 109 mm

# Front brake - Double discs, Ø 320 mm

# Rear brake - Single disc, Ø 245 mm

# Front tyre - 120/70 ZR17M/C (58W)

# Rear tyre - 190/50 ZR17M/C (73W)

 

Dimensions;

# Overall length - 2,140 mm

# Overall width - 770 mm

# Overall height - 1,060 mm

# Seat height - 815 mm

# Wheelbase - 1,460 mm

# Min. ground clearance - 135 mm

# Dry weight - 194 kg

# Fuel tank capacity - (reserve) 18 litres (3.4 litres)

# Oil capacity 3.8 litres Specifications are subject to change without notice, in accordance with national regulation and legislations

[racingter]

2007 Yamaha FZ6

Yamaha's little Fizzer is inexpensive but well-equipped.

Troy Siahaan

Rider Report

 

Rider Report

Remember the days when bikes were inexpensive and could do a little bit of everything? Well, there’s good news—the middleweight standard motorcycle has made a comeback. In a market where most bikes are built with a specific focus, the re-emergence of the middleweight standard category has forced nearly all of the manufacturers to bring a standard back into the fold, as these bikes are great for novices and seasoned veterans alike.

 

Deep inside the Yamaha lineup there’s a model that doesn’t garner very much fanfare, and yet is something of a welcome salute to the old days—the FZ6. The little brother of the FZ1, the 2007 FZ6 hasn’t changed all that much from the bike we tested in April of last year, but the new version gets updated fuel-injection programming, a revised gauge cluster with an easy-to-read analog tachometer (which replaces the old digital unit that was hard to read), and a redesigned fairing and windscreen. The biggest change on the new model is a revised swingarm and a switch to monoblock four-piston calipers (as seen on the R6S) hugging the front discs in place of the old two-piston pin-slide calipers. We never had a problem with the old binders; in fact we gave them the nod in comparison tests with the FZ6’s competitors, but we’ll gladly take the upgrade.

 

Not only is the FZ6 aimed at the new rider, but budget-conscious riders looking for a thrill can get a kick out of the bike as well. At the heart of the FZ6 is the R6S engine, which has been retuned for better midrange rideability. Keep in mind that this is the same basic engine that Yamaha used to win AMA Supersport victories and the 2003 championship, so it’s definitely no slouch. On the dyno the retune translates into 84 rear-wheel horsepower at 12,100 rpm and 41 lb-ft of torque at 10,100 rpm, real punch for a bike in this weight range.

 

Advertisement

Thumb the starter button on the FZ6 and it springs to life, but don’t be too quick to jump on and ride—the fast idle needs some time to bring the bike up to operating temperature. Click it into first gear and an abrupt thud is there to greet you every time. Once moving, the six-speed transmission is slick, with positive engagement from the slightest flick of the toe. Our test bike had a rather stiff throttle spring that made long-distance trips at constant throttle an exercise for the wrist, but for short trips around town—where engine speeds vary—it wasn’t noticeable. Sort your way through the gearbox and the top-end rush of the 600cc mill is so intoxicating that perhaps the throttle was designed that way to protect those with heavy right hands from landing in the slammer!

 

The new fuel-injection programming is also spot-on, especially during midcorner application, as the engine was always smooth and responsive. Get that left ankle in shape, though, because the peaky nature of the engine means that constant shifting is required to keep the FZ6 in the powerband. And while the top-end power is nice, the price you pay for that fun is some buzziness in the handlebar that can numb the hands on a long ride. The shape of the gas tank doesn’t help take weight off the wrists as its narrow and rounded contours make it hard for the rider to support his or her weight with their legs. Fortunately the riding position is rather relaxed, and not much weight is on the wrists anyway. You are sitting slightly forward, but nowhere near sportbike standards. For truly comfortable touring a higher bar position would do the trick.

 

Rider Report

In the tight stuff the little Yammie performed admirably, my only gripe being that it was difficult to move around in the saddle as the new seat material latched on to my riding pants. Body positioning through turns doesn’t suffer as long as you prepare yourself ahead of time. The same non-adjustable 43mm fork from the previous generation FZ6 sits out front, this time finished in black to complement the aluminum frame and swingarm, while the single preload-adjustable shock resides in the rear. The fork could use a little more damping both in rebound and compression, but turn-in wasn’t overly sluggish and the bike held its line. Bikes in this price-point often tend to “pogo” through turns as their suspensions can’t keep up, but not so on the FZ6. The rear shock was expectedly soft, and although the preload is the only thing to play with, it didn’t show any signs of wanting to bounce or wallow.

 

Speaking of price-point, at first glance one would think that the 600cc engine is the star of this show and would drive the price up, but when you look at the complete package and how well it all works together one starts to wonder how Yamaha could only want $6,849 for it. For that price new and experienced riders get a motorcycle that scores high on the smiles-per-mile scale without breaking the bank.

 

Rider Report

As mentioned earlier, the biggest change to the ’07 model is the four-piston calipers that clamp on dual 298mm floating discs. Braking is strong and linear, although the rubber lines tend to flex and make braking feel spongy after repeated hard usage (like during our photo shoot). This bike isn’t one that would see hard stopping on a repeated basis anyway, so unless you like braking to the point where the discs get red hot, the standard rubber lines are fine for the job.

 

On the open road the peppy engine is ready at a moment’s notice and the seat is neither too soft nor too firm. Yamaha claims the passenger seat and footpegs are supposed to be more comfortable for a pillion, and the passenger grabrails are some of the biggest in its class. So grab a copilot and go for a ride—just make sure you are quick with that shifter—you’ll need to be if you want to keep the engine happy, especially two-up. During our (mainly solo) testing, the metal gas tank was an ideal location for a magnetic tankbag, and the large, flat flypaperlike rear section proved to be a prime spot to put soft luggage. You’ll need it, too, as the underseat exhaust takes away any storage space. So if two-up touring is your game, then you had better travel light, but if you prefer traveling solo you’ll find yourself comfortable with just enough room to pack a little more.

 

Rider Report

During our mixed testing of local commuting, jaunts through the canyons and the occasional weekend trip, the little Yamaha averaged an amazing 47 mpg from its 5.1-gallon gas tank. Great fuel range is something we’ve liked about the FZ6 in the past and fortunately the retuned fuel injection keeps that tradition alive. The restyled fairing and windscreen no doubt punch a cleaner hole in the air, thus also helping in the mileage department. Our previous gripe was that the windscreen was too far forward and didn’t protect the rider much. The new windscreen is closer to the rider but the wind still hit this 5-foot 8-inch rider’s helmet and created some buffeting, sometimes coming underneath the chinbar on a windy day. In a tuck, however, the windscreen does a great job of deflecting the wind away from the hands and the head. Shorter riders should appreciate the windscreen even more.

 

We’ve logged plenty of miles on current and former models to really notice the little things about the FZ6 that stand out. Yamaha definitely gets points for equipping the 6 with a centerstand—making parking in tight spaces and performing basic maintenance a breeze. Yamaha also gets credit for supplying a fully stocked toolkit that seems fit to perform anything short of a complete overhaul. Rubber-mounted footpegs are a subtle touch on the FZ6 that are normally overlooked on bikes costing twice as much. Despite not damping all the buzz from the engine, they do isolate most of it before it reaches the rider. Again, little things….

 

Rider Report

What we have with the FZ6 is a legitimate middleweight standard with the versatility to keep experienced tourers entertained and the simplicity to keep the newer rider from getting in over his or her head. Despite our minor gripes, the engine is fit for the job and the adequate suspension is actually a good learning tool for being smooth. Throw in the quality brakes and all the provisions for luggage and you get a bike that’s a welcome tribute to the versatile way things used to be. Sometimes the old ways are the best ways. The fact that Yamaha doesn’t even want seven large for the FZ6 is just icing on the cake.

[racingter]

Pic of the BEST!!!!!

[rickur]

What sort of km's are you FZ6 guys getting on a tank of gas? Mine has a power commander fitted and only seems to be getting 220km. Should that be right? From reading the reviews it should do 200 miles on a tank.

[Naked1]

Good morning!!!

[Wen gege]

Pic of the BEST!!!!!

 

I think ur bike nicer. fierce and cool.

[racingter]

Tested my FZ1....good for street and touring...the throttle response is bow wow.....the engine is smooth and no sweat from hougang to patong...

even though flooded area the bike can just go thorugh w/o any delay...

 

it's not just any yamaha bike

 

 

it's YAMAHA FZ1.

 

[katana777]

this thread is majiam ah beng is the promoter for FZ1

[racingter]

this thread is majiam ah beng is the promoter for FZ1

 

Good bike...........must share info mah.....

[katana777]

no leh, my bike broke down afew times liao leh.....

[racingter]

no leh, my bike broke down afew times liao leh.....

 

any bikes have thier defects bah.....downsides..but utimately it's the bike for me...