Yamaha FZ 25 BS6: Road Test Review

Is the FZ 25 still an enticing option in the 250cc space? Or should you look beyond it now?

The quarter-litre segment in the country was pretty dormant until the Yamaha FZ 25 arrived. While it couldn’t generate a lot of action people came to expect from a 250cc bike, it was still a sensible option. Eventually, with players like the Suzuki Gixxer 250, Bajaj Dominar 250, and Husqvarna Svartpilen 250, the Yammie started feeling a bit dated. Now, in its BS6 avatar, does the FZ 25 have what it takes to woo us again? Or is it yet another miss-the-bus moment? 

Pros

• Lots of bottom-end torque makes it a great bike for the city.
• Comfortable ergonomics allow for long hours on the saddle without tiring you out.
• Updated styling grabs eyeballs.

Cons

• Highway riding feels beyond the capabilities of the Yamaha FZ 25.
• The LCD display is almost archaic and lacks present-day features.

Standout feature

• The new fascia gives it a butch appearance.

Engine and Performance

• The 249cc, two-valve engine is a gem when it comes making your way through city traffic.
• The motor cleanly pulls from as low as 2,000rpm, even when you are a gear or two higher.
• There’s ample low and mid-range grunt, making overtaking easy.
• The clutch is a bit on the heavier side - a slip-and-assist clutch would’ve been a welcome addition.
• Highway capabilities of the engine are questionable, especially with the top speed we could achieve was 129kmph.
• The engine feels a bit rough towards the top of the rev range. The 5-speed gearbox could use an extra gear.

Ride And Handling

• The suspension setup is tuned on the firmer side, so sharper bumps can be felt through the handlebar.
• That said, the suspension does a great job of soaking up minor undulations and potholes, even on broken roads.
• The short wheelbase of 1360mm, along with the light front-end, makes the bike nimble.
• The wide handlebar, with the slightly forward-set riding position, gives you better control when wading through traffic.
• The MRF Nylogrip tyres offer decent grip on the tarmac and are confidence-inspiring when shooting through corners.

Braking

• Braking is progressive, especially the front.
• Though the feedback offered is decent, I would have preferred a bit more feel at the lever.
• The brake bite is sufficient for everyday use, however, a slightly fiercer setup is always a welcome change.
• The dual-channel ABS isn’t very intrusive.

Technology And Features

• In times of TFTs and smartphone-connected dashboards, the FZ 25’s negative-lit display feels dated. 
• The instrument console is difficult to read in daylight.
• Misses out on functions like real-time fuel efficiency and a gear-position indicator.

Design

• The new LED headlight with the ‘unibrow’ DRL lends the FZ 25 a rugged appearance.
• The taller flyscreen and the knuckle guards on the ‘S’ variant blend well with the rest of the design, adding to the bike’s appeal. 
• The tank recesses offer ample space to grip the motorcycle with your thighs.
• There is no change to the rear end of the bike.
• The golden wheels on the ‘S’ variant look premium. 

Ergonomics

• The rider’s triangle is apt for everyday commute and some spirited riding too.
• Footpegs are slightly rear-set, but not so much to make you feel uncomfortable after long hours on the saddle.
• Reaching the handlebar may feel like a bit of a stretch for shorter riders.
• The 795mm seat height makes it easier for riders of smaller build to plant their feet firmly on the ground.
• The seat is flat, wide, and well-cushioned. You shouldn’t feel any soreness even after riding for long hours. 

Variants

• Available in two variants: Standard and S.
• The ‘S’ variant gets gold-painted alloy wheels, knuckle guards, and a windscreen.
• There’s no difference in the mechanicals of both the variants