Introduction

The new Yamaha FZ-X is the neo-retro, street commuter which is based on the FZ platform of Yamaha. When people were expecting the launch of the Yamaha XSR 155, ever since its revelation two years ago, the brand decided to come up with a more practical and cheaper option, based on the high-selling FZ, instead of launching the costlier XSR. So, with the addition of the FZ-X, Yamaha Motors expands its FZ series in India. The neo-retro appeal of the bike is, however, inspired from the XSR motorcycles. However, this bike does not quite come across as having that ‘special’ quality like the FZ-16 which was introduced almost a decade ago, despite being a well-rounded package. 

How is the design?

The new Yamaha FZ-X has a lot of talk going around about how it is styled, but to be honest, this bike does not wear the standard FZ coat, looking unconventionally different to that of its siblings.  The front features an ultra-modern round bi-functional LED headlight instead of the typical one found in the other FZ models. The fuel tank comes in a tear-drop shape flanked by a couple of radiator shrouds which, however, are totally cosmetic because there is no radiator in this bike. This model features the same base components and chassis as the FZ FI series. The fork gaiters and the rugged tyres enhance the overall styling of the bike. There is a basic grab rail added at the back. The three-quarter proportion of the rear is pretty awkward for the matter. The styling of the rear section could have been cohesive upon the addition of a simple sub-frame, however, the typical cost-effective chassis seemed irresistible at that moment. The LCD display facing the rider displays smartphone notifications via Bluetooth connection. 

How is the performance?

The new Yamaha FZ-X has a small capacity for fuel which requires frequent refilling because this bike continues to run that same unit from the FZ, that includes chain-sprocket sizes and internal gearing. The humble single-cylinder, air-cooled, 149cc engine is coupled with a 5-speed gearbox and generates a power of 12.4 bhp at 7250 rpm and 13.3 Nm of maximum torque at 5500 rpm. The starting mechanism uses an electric starter. Both the power and torque are marginally lower than in this segment, but its power figure manages to be higher than the Bajaj Pulsar NS125. The performance of the FZ two wheelers have sharply declined over the last few years. Sudden overtaking requires a couple of downshifts. However, the exhaust is tuned for producing a peppier and deeper exhaust note than the conventional FZ. To be honest, the Yamaha FZ-X will not deliver a top-end performance, even with a refined unit, and therefore revving it beyond 8000 rpm is pointless. 

How does the Yamaha FZ-X ride? 

Yamaha clearly tried to instil a sense of practicality and comfort to the new FZ-X, its ergo being relaxed. The forward-set footpegs, the higher handlebars and the spacious seats make this bike good for city commuting. The raised seat height is quite approachable for riders of different heights. The predominant riding experience feels easy and light on the road, with the FZ-X having a good stability on its feet. At a kerb weight of 139 kg, it weighs almost 4kg more than the typical FZ bike, owing to the all-metal front mudguard, fake radiator shrouds, fuel tank, bash guards and headlamp brackets. The overall handling is nice, having a neutral and balanced chassis, but the ride quality is not the most exciting or sharpest in its category. The dual-purpose MRF tyres ride well on dry surfaces but refuse to be pushed hard. The ground clearance and the suspension travel remain the same. 

How comfortable is the Yamaha FZ-X? 

The Yamaha FZ-X provides a comfortable and non-aggressive riding position. The footpegs are forward-set which makes this bike a good companion on long hauls. The seat is wide, spacious and soft and does not cause back pain when ridden longer distances. The raised seat height is still accessible to riders of all heights. The overall ergo are easy and relaxing. This bike is pretty comfortable for commuting daily through city traffic. 

How's the tech? 

The technical specifications of the new Yamaha FZ-X which owe to its performance and ride quality are listed below. 

• This machine is powered by a single-cylinder, air-cooled, 149cc engine coupled with a 5-speed gearbox and generates a power of 12.4 bhp at 7250 rpm and 13.3 Nm of maximum torque at 5500 rpm. 
• The engine is fuel-injected. 
• The bike is supported by a telescopic fork suspension at the front and a monocross adjustable suspension at the rear. 
• The braking duties are carried out by disc brakes at both ends, further supported by a single-channel ABS. 
• The headlamp is a bi-functional LED. 
• This bike gets DRL lights and smartphone connectivity. 

How's the mileage of the Yamaha FZ-X? 

The Yamaha FZ-X delivers an average mileage of 45 kmpl. This is pretty impressive for its class. 

Is the Yamaha FZ-X good value for money? 

This bike is not significantly affordable and the new Y-connect, Bluetooth enabled version is at least Rs 12000 more than FZ-S FI. At Rs 120,000, this bike is costlier than the typical 150-160cc motorcycles from Honda, Bajaj, TVS, Suzuki and hero. It is closely positioned with the XPulse 200 from Hero. It is unique and striking though, breaking away from the conventions and if you like how different it looks and how practical it is for commuting, then you can go for it. 

How is the after sales service? 

Yamaha avails four free services for most of its bikes and the Yamaha FZ-X is no exception. The 1st service is scheduled after 30 days of purchase or 1000 km of ride, the 2nd service is scheduled after 150 days of purchase or 5000 km of ride, the 3rd service is scheduled after 270 days of purchase or 9000 km of ride, and the 4th service is scheduled after 390 days of purchase or 13000 km of ride. 

Which motorbikes compete in this segment? 

Some of the top motorcycles that compete alongside the Yamaha FZ-X in the same segment are Suzuki Gixxer 155, Hero Xtreme 160R, Honda X Blade, TVS Apache RTR 160 4V and Bajaj Pulsar NS160. 

Verdict (Value for money)

It will not be right to say that the new Yamaha FZ-X is a complete value for money because it comes across with its own set of drawbacks. Moreover, it is costlier than some of its rival bikes. In fact, it is more expensive than the premium bikes from Bajaj, Honda, Hero or Suzuki.