2013 Yamaha FZ8 Unveiled; Might Make its Way to India

Yamaha Motors has recently unveiled 2013 Yamaha FZ8. The FZ8 is positioned just in the middle of the Yamaha FZ line-up, the FZ8 sits between the smaller displacement Yamaha FZ6 and larger 999cc FZ1. For 2013 Yamaha refreshes its middleweight standard with styling updates and more suspension adjustments. The 2013 Yamaha FZ8 might come in India as well, as the company needs a bike to fill the much needed gap between Yamaha FZ1 and R15. And as we reported recently if arch nemesis Kawasaki launches Z800 in India, Yamaha will also launch the FZ8 to rival it.

The 2013 Yamaha FZ8 has received some very important changes like revised fuel injection settings, a more aggressive muffler, and fully adjustable front suspension (compression, rebound and preload) and rear suspension (compression and preload). Cosmetic updates for 2013 include a new, higher quality seat cover composed of suede-like side panels and a textured top surface to not only improve seat grip but also its appearance. The dual textured seat material complements the bike’s matte gray/matte black finish enhancing the visual appeal of the entire bike. A new muffler shape gives the FZ8 a more modern and attractive scheme as well.

The bike comes equipped with a new 779cc liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, inline 4-cylinder, 4-valve engine delivers smooth power delivery and gobs of torque in the low to mid rpm range. But this engine also looses horsepower when the revs climb toward redline. Its new fuel-injection  comes with 35mm diameter throttle bodies has optimum intake efficiency and smooth throttle response, and provides precise fuel/air mixtures for awesome power delivery across the rpm range. The engine comes mated to a wide-ratio 6-speed transmission has ideal ratios for the engine's performance character. The chassis consists of a cast aluminum frame and uses the engine as a stressed member for rigidity. The rigidity is achieved through a six-point engine mounting system. To help save weight, Yamaha incorporates a controlled-fill aluminum die-cast swingarm. The geometry of the chassis includes a 51% front wheel weight bias to allow for a more aggressive riding style.

Unlike Kawasaki Z800, we are expecting Yamaha FZ8 to come as completely built unit (CBU), while the Z800 is expected to comes as CKD units. However, as the bike is naked bike it might not cost more, most probably it might have a price tag around Rs. 4.5 lakh, which will make it a tough competitor of Kawasaki Z800.

Yamaha FZ8 Technical Specifications

Engine: 779cc liquid-cooled Inline-Four, 16-valve 
Bore x Stroke: 68.0 x 53.6mm 
Compression Ratio: 12.0:1 
Fuel Delivery: Fuel-injection 
Clutch: Wet multi-plate, cable actuation
Transmission: 6-Speed 
Front Suspension: Telescopic fork; adjustable compression and rebound, 5.1-in travel 
Rear Suspension: Single shock; adjustable preload and rebound damping, 5.1-in travel
Final Drive: O-ring chain
Front Brake: 310mm disc, 4-piston caliper 
Rear Brake: 267mm disc, 2-piston caliper 
Front Tire: 120/70-17 
Rear Tire: 180/55-17 
Curb Weight: 467 lbs.
Wheelbase: 57.5 in. 
Length: 84.3 in.
Width: 30.3  in.
Rake / Trail: 25 deg. / 4.3 in.
Seat Height: 32.1 in. 

We are expecting both the Yamaha FZ8 and Kawasaki Z800 in India, and if it happens, it will be interesting to see, which bike will win the hearts of Indian bikers.