Yamaha FZ-S Fi Version 3.0 Vs TVS Apache RTR 160 4V (Fi) Vs Honda CB Hornet 160R Vs Suzuki Gixxer: Spec Comparison

We find out how the new Yamaha FZ-S Fi Version 3.0 fares against its fierce rivals on paper

Yamaha has launched the FZ Fi and FZ-S Fi Version 3.0 for a price of Rs 95,000 and 97,000, respectively. This makes it around Rs 13,000 and Rs 9,000 more expensive than their older, non-ABS equipped versions. As steep as it sounds, does the bike justify its price tag compared to its competition on paper? Let's find out.

Design and Features: 

The FZ Versions 3.0 gets an all-new design inspired by its quarter-litre sibling, the FZ25. In essence, it features a split LED headlight up front, a muscular-looking tank with tank extensions, an engine cowl (only for FZ-S Fi) and a stubbier exhaust end can design. Its design focus lies in the mid-section, which adds to the bikes visual mass. Other than this, the new 150cc Yamaha motorcycles also get an all-new LCD instrument console, a single-piece seat and a redesigned single-piece grab rail rather than the split units available on the previous model. The updates do give the FZ a breath of fresh air. 

Moving on to the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V. It’s basically a downsized version of the Apache RTR 200 4V as it borrows the majority of its design elements, including its beefy tank with the offset fuel cap, the edgy front fascia and engine cowl, from its bigger brother. Aside from this, the only difference between the two is the RTR 160 4V’s single-piece seat, redesigned alloy wheels and a different rear section. 

With the CB Hornet 160R, Honda changed the way we perceived commuter motorcycles. The Japanese manufacturer went all out with the Hornet’s looks and gave the bike an edgy and sharp design language. Its LED headlight and X-shaped LED tail light give the bike a distinctive appeal

The Suzuki Gixxer's design hasn't seen much change over the years apart from some new colour schemes and graphics. Despite its age, the Gixxer still looks smart and attractive. However, a cosmetic update is expected in 2019. 

All four bikes in this comparison feature an all-digital instrument console which read out the essentials like the speed, trip meter, odometer, fuel gauge, etc. However, the instrument console on the Apache RTR 160R is the most feature-rich console in this segment as it offers a lap timer, 0-60 timer, top speed recorder, real-time fuel efficiency, average fuel efficiency, service indicator, distance-to-empty gauge, gear indicator and a clock. You also get a gear shift indicator which sits on the top right corner of the console. 

Powertrain:

Let’s get to the crux of the matter - the engine! Unfortunately, the FZ Fi Version 3.0’s engine hasn't been tinkered, which means it puts out the exact same power figures as the previous model. However, Yamaha engineers have tuned the motor for better low-end performance, which means we could expect a slightly more tractable motor than before. 

Both the RTR 160 4V and Hornet 160R are neck-and-neck in terms of power. While the TVS churns out more power, it loses out in the weight department as it’s heavier than the Honda by 7kg. Granted, the Gixxer isn't the most powerful bike here, but it's eager engine and grunty mid-range has you grinning from ear-to-ear everytime you smack open the throttle.

Underpinnings: 

Interestingly, all the Japanese manufacturers have opted for a diamond-type frame, which seems to be a benchmark for this segment. However, TVS has taken a different approach with its double cradle frame, which might have a thing or two to do with its weight difference compared to its rivals. The suspension setup is the exact same layout throughout the segment, although the RTR 160 4V does get its suspension tuned by Showa. 

All the bikes get disc brakes at both ends with single-channel ABS. While a dual-channel setup would have worked considerably better, most manufacturers opt to go for a single-channel unit in this segment to reduce costs. Having said that, we expect the TVS RTR 160 4V to feature a dual-channel setup considering the RTR 200 4V and RTR 180 get dual-channel ABS. Notably, the Honda CB Hornet was the first bike in its segment to feature ABS, followed by the Suzuki Gixxer. 

Let’s move on to the rubber that helps these bikes grip the road. Fat tyre profiles seem to be a norm in the 150cc performance segment. The TVS is the only exception here thanks to its relatively slimmer tyres. Though the RTR 160 4V feels nimble at its feet, it happens to be the heaviest bike in this comparison, tipping the scale at 145kg. 

Price and Verdict: