Yamaha FZ Version 2.0 Fi

Overview

Yamaha FZ16 can be credited for re-establishing Yamaha in India. Ever since its launch, this 150cc bike is one of the most popular bikes in its segment. Standing head and shoulders above the bikes in 150cc segment, FZ16 has revolutionized the biking scene in India in a short span of its launch. It has bagged the prestigious Bike of the Year Award from UTVi/Autocar, Zigwheels and Business Standard Motoring and Viewer's Choice award at UTVi and Autocar India Awards 2009. It is the best looking bike in its segment and now the company has launched the upgraded model, known as Yamaha FZ Version 2.0 Fi. It is powered by a 149cc engine which develops maximum power of 12.9 Bhp and maximum torque of 12.8 Nm. Yamaha India has launched updated FZ series, which comes with host of new features like longer and wider split-seat, new stylish grab bar, large and wide rear fender, new instrument cluster, new head light design, BLUE CORE technology to improve the mileage of the bike plus they have introduced new shades for both FZ and FZS.

Quick Facts about Yamaha FZ & FZS Version 2.0 Fi

• 2015 Yamaha FZ and FZS Version 2.0 Fi are equipped with an all-new 149cc engine in place of the old 153cc
• New models come with Fuel Injection in place of the old Carburetter
• Yamaha has named the new technology as BLUE CORE
• As per the company claims this technology will increase combustion efficiency, power loss reduction and will aid in precise control fuel supply ignition timing
• Yamaha promises higher mileage and better performance
• Both FZ and FZS Version 2.0 gets 14 percent increment in mileage
• The new models develops 12.9 BHP of maximum power and 12.8 Nm of maximum torque as compared to 13.8 BHP and 13.6Nm of the Version 1.0 variant
• New LCD Instrument Cluster is square in shape and comes equipped with an ECO Indicator
• Though the suspension set-up is same but Yamaha has tweaked them to make improvements
• Yamaha says they have also tweaked the chassis for a better ride
• Both Version 2.0 models are equipped with new front and rear tyres
• At 132kgs, new FZ and FZS version 2 are 3 kgs lighter
• As per the company claims, this is the lightest 150cc bike in the market
• Yamaha recommends Fi (Fuel Injection) cleaning every 6000kms
• Yamaha is targeting young customers in the age of 18-30 years

Design and Style

The looks of Yamaha FZ16 are the major contributor to its success. The design and appearance of this bike was a fresh breath of air. The bike managed to get the attention of buyers who were fed-up of aged Bajaj Pulsar and other regular 150cc bikes. The bike feels a generation ahead of its competitors in terms of styling. FZ16 looks compact and macho at the same time. This bike borrows the naked looks of its much expensive elder sibling FZ1. Its headlight features no fairing and visor and looks cool with tiny orange colored indicators. Its front telescopic forks, mudguard and wider front tyre add maturity to this bike. Side profiling makes it an attention seeker. Its up-lifted fuel tank and dual plated fatty silencer are one of its kinds and can't be neglected. The upgraded bike features new wider and longer seat with new black colored grab rails. Silencer comes with silver finishing which complements the other silver bits on this bike. One can also notice the new semi-covered chain cover. Tail light is not placed on the regular position and sits just above the number plate on its new revised rear fender which is longer and wider than before. Its rear radial tyre is a unique characteristic of this bike.

Instrument Console

The meter console of FZ16 is very trendy and different than its rivals. The bike features digital tachometer, speedometer, trip meter and odometer. You can also notice its digital fuel gauge and LED indicators on its instrument console. This meter console uses orange backlight for illumination and can be read easily. The FZ Version 2.0 features an all-new wide instrument console, which looks much better in comparison to the last generation model.

Engine and Gearbox

Yamaha has used an air-cooled, four stroke 149cc engine for the FZ Version 2.0. This SOHC, single cylinder engine yields out a maximum power output of 12.8 bhp at 8000 rpm (down from 13.8 BHP) while its utmost torque of 12.8 Nm (down from 13.6 NM) can be achieved at 6000 rpm. This engine is mated with a five speed manual gearbox with one gear down and four gears up-shift pattern.

Acceleration and Performance

Yamaha FZ16's 149cc engine is specially designed for Indian conditions. The bike performs really well at low rpms. The bike uses most of its torque at early rpms which makes it perfect for city usage. Even in bigger gears at slow speeds, the bike picks up really well. Power delivery is very smooth and enjoyable and you don't have to wait much for the power. Throttle response is best in its class. As far as engine refinement is concerned, it's the best 150cc engine in recent times. This bike feels far more responsive and refined than Bajaj Pulsar and TVS Apache. Honda's 150cc engine powering Hero Hunk and CBZ is also very refined but can't match the power packed performance of FZ16. Gear ratios are very well designed and give the bike an advantage over others with ample amount of torque. It won't be wrong to say that it's the best engineered bike in its segment. In fact if you compare this bike with others like Pulsar 180 and Apache 180, the bike is quite capable to give them a tough competition in the mid-range. It's only after 6000rpm when this bike loses out to those big bikes.

Mileage

As per the company claims, the FZ Version 2.0 is more fuel-efficient now. The high performance engine of this bike can give you a mileage of around 35-40km/ltr in daily usage while on highways; it can give you a fuel efficiency of around 45-50km/ltr.

Comfort while Driving

Finally, Yamaha has get rid of the stiff seat of FZ16 and now this bike sports a new longer and wider seat which is much comfortable than before. The wide handle bar of this bike gives you a perfect grip of it. Foot pegs are placed to give you a sporty and relaxed position. However, with a pillion rider, it's still not as comfortable as others.

Storage Space and Safety Features

The bike has standard safety features with no storage space.

Suspension and Brakes

Yamaha FZ16 has the best suspension system in its segment. Its 41mm beefy telescopic front forks give it an advantage over others and the bike gives you a very comfortable ride. The mono shock absorber at the back also does its duty accurately. The bike comes with a big 267mm hydraulic disc brake at its front and a drum brake of 130mm at its back. These brakes are capable enough to stop this bike but Yamaha could have offered a rear disc brake.

Ride and Handling

Yamaha FZ16 is unbeatable in this department. It handles really well in city traffic. The wide handlebar gives you a perfect hold of it and the bike steers accurately. The wide tyres hold the road properly and give you extra stability. It's a brilliant bike around corners and gives you immense hold and confidence. Its strong suspension, high ground clearance (160mm) and wheelbase of 1334mm keeps this bike grounded and allows you to cruise nicely on highways. It can digest most of the potholes with ease.

Shades

Yamaha FZ16 Version 2.0 Fi is available in two shades: Panther Black and Scorching Red.

Verdict

Yamaha FZ Version 2.0 Fi will cost you around INR 76,250(ex-showroom, Delhi, may vary). The performance, looks, pleasant ride and handling of this bike completely justifies its pricing. Yes, FZ Version 2.0 Fi is a bit costlier than its many competitors but it is worth spending extra money on it. Despite its low fuel efficiency and absence of rear disc brake, one can surely opt for this bike. For us, it's a complete value for money bike and will give you the exclusivity and biking experience which you often miss with other regular 150cc bikes.

Visual Comparison

Infographic

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