• Published On: 7 March 2017
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How’s the latest version of the popular 150cc street naked to ride?

Internationally, Yamaha is known for its high-performance bikes, and even in India, the Japanese bike maker has had a cult following of sorts, thanks to models like the RX100 and the RD350. Besides large-capacity bikes, Yamaha has some exciting bikes like the soon-to-be-replaced R15, the YZF R3, and the recently launched FZ25. However, it’s the FZ25’s smaller sibling, the FZ, that’s kept the sales-chart ticking for the company in the 150cc street-naked segment. It’s been quite the pioneer in its segment, and is widely considered to be the inspiration for successful models like the Suzuki Gixxer to which it lost its throne. The bike, though, still remains a strong seller for Yamaha. Here’s what it’s like to ride.

In its latest avatar – available in two variants, FZ and FZ-S – the FZ retains a muscular stance, and the minimal body panels, elegant black alloys and wide tyres only add to the bike’s sporty looks. The all-digital instrument cluster is new and easy to read, and the bike gets top-notch switchgear and materials all around. The overall build quality, like all Yamaha bikes, is quite impressive. The broad tank comes with deep knee recesses that help you grip the bike nicely with your thighs. 

The Yamaha V2.0 FZ is powered by a 149cc, four-stroke, air-cooled and fuel-injected engine that comes with a slick-shifting five-speed gearbox. The gears feel well-spaced, and the exhaust note is quite sporty too. However, at 13.1hp and 12.8Nm, the engine’s outputs are quite a bit down by class standards. That said, the bike is smooth and responsive on the go.

It nicely picks up from low revs, and the engine feels quite strong during regular traffic.

What’s particularly impressive is the comfortable riding position – the placement of the handlebars and the broad seat makes it easy to manoeuvre the bike. In fact, the FZ-S V2.0 is quite a light bike, weighing in at just 132kg.

The bike is suspended on beefy front forks and an adjustable rear monoshock, and this combo results in a ride that’s neither too soft, nor overly firm. This setup actually works pretty well for our conditions and the FZ V2.0 remains at the top of its class in terms of handling, cornering, stability and braking. Even the grip from the MRF tyres is impressive and there’s a good amount of traction at all times. What only add to the riding experience are the strong brakes, which offer ample stopping power.

All things considered, the only department where the FZ will leave many enthusiasts wanting is outright performance. However, if a more powerful Yamaha street naked is what you want, you now have the FZ25. Look beyond the pure performance angle, though, and the FZ remains quite the value packaged for its asking price of Rs 80,726 (ex-showroom, Delhi). 

It’s well-built, looks attractive, offers unmatched handling, is quite fuel-efficient, and is well priced too. It’s quite an impressive 150cc street-naked for your money.