Yamaha FZ FI

The Yamaha FZ FI is the Japanese bikemaker’s entry-level offering when it comes to sporty 150cc commuters. Launched way back in 2008, the FZ quickly became one of the most popular motorcycles from the manufacturer. Later in 2014, Yamaha updated the motorcycle with a complete overhaul in the form of Version 2.0. Its design was slightly more angular and sleek, while retaining the macho character of the motorcycle. The engine was also downsized and a fuel injection system was added for better efficiency. Consequently, the power and torque figures also went down marginally. The Version 2.0 makes 13.2PS of power at 8000rpm and 12.8Nm of torque at 6000rpm. A 5-speed transmission transfers power to the rear wheel via a chain drive. Honda CB Hornet 160R, Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 and TVS Apache RTR 160 4V are some of the primary competitors for this motorcycle.

Powering the Yamaha FZ FI is a 149cc single-cylinder Blue Core motor with air-cooling and fuel injection. Compared to the earlier generation motorcycle, the Version 2.0 is 14 per cent more efficient, claims Yamaha. A peak power of 13.2PS arrives at 8000rpm and at 6000rpm, the motor generates a peak torque of 12.8Nm. The engine is peppy and picks up revs quickly. Topping off the experience is a smooth-shifting 5-speed transmission with precise shifts, as expected from a Japanese machine.

The FZ-FI houses an all-new air-cooled single-cylinder 149cc Yamaha Fuel Injection Blue Core engine that churns out a max power of 13.2PS at 8,000rpm and a peak torque of 12.8Nm at 6,000rpm. Having built on the Blue Core concept lines, the new FZ-FI comes with an improved fuel economy over other models in the FZ series by up to 14 percent. The company claims it to yield a fuel economy of more than 50Kmpl on highways and 45Kmpl in the city. The bike is equipped with sensors and actuators that calculate and transfer the required amount of fuel to the engine- making it the fuel-efficient and performance-ridden motorcycle currently available on the market. The bike comes with the best throttle response in its class, ample torque and refined engine. Its reduced weight of 132Kg makes it more responsive and swift. The initial pickup hints at its smooth accelerating capabilities and overall performance.

The engine is nestled inside a diamond-type frame, which rides on telescopic front forks and a Monocross unit at the rear. When it comes to handling, the chassis inspires confidence and the motorcycle changes direction effortlessly, making it a nimble machine in the city. Suspension has also been reworked in the Version 2.0 to optimise handling. Meaty 100-section front and a 140-section rear tubeless tyres contribute to the motorcycle’s agility in a commendable way. Brakes include a disc up front and a drum unit at the rear.

The Yamaha FZ FI comes with a disc brake up front as standard, and a rear drum. The Japanese brand does not offer ABS or CBS even as an option. Expect Yamaha to equip the motorcycle with ABS once norms are enforced for models currently in production.