2009 Yamaha FZ6 Review

Introduction

Just how the Yamaha YZF-R6 takes a more docile approach in the form of the YZF-R6S, the FZ6 exploits the commuter side of the “S” model. But that’s just in theory as the engine is the only unit that the FZ6 shares with the R6S. The 600cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder; DOHC, 16 valves has proven a top performer on all models that it powered, the last being the FZ6R, a fully faired model which we’ve earlier previewed for you.

Still, in 2009, the Yamaha FZ6 stands out thanks to the same old recipe: a light, comfortable and versatile overall package powered by a more than decent number of horses that satisfies all rider’s needs as long as they plan to stay on road. Furthermore, the “Comfort seat”, previously found only in the accessory list, is now standard.

The engine is fuel injected and mated to a six-speed gearbox through a multi-plate clutch and that immediately qualifies it as a class leader. But, probably the best of it is the compact, light bodywork (459 lb wet weight) and front/rear 5.1 inches of travel offered by the 43mm telescopic fork and single shock. Also, with 17-inch alloy wheels and two 298mm floating discs up front and a 245mm rear one, you know that the bike’s DNA links it to the track although you will most likely never ride it there.

History

1998 Yamaha Fazer 600

The FZ6 is a model initially created for the European market where it would have first been called the Fazer. The old continent first saw the Yamaha Fazer at the 1997 Paris Show and from the very first moment it established a unique balance between performance, light handling, comfort and fuel economy. The 600cc engine was developed from that of the YZF600R Thunder Cat super-sport model and the frame was a wide-type double cradle steel unit. It went into production in 1998 and a year later it became the top selling model in its class.

2002 was to bring the first major upgrade. With a new cowl, new headlight, a 22 litre tank and stainless steel exhaust, the Fazer looked sleeker and more able to deal with the competition which by that time was coming strong from behind. The 2002 model year would have transmitted the power smoother and it also featured new instrumentation, but overall it was just a preview of what was about to later come.

In 2004, the Yamaha FZ6 (still Fazer in Europe) as we know it was born. Built around the 2003 YZF R6 engine which was retuned for more usable midrange power, the new bike was perfect both for winding roads and city riding and it developed 98 hp at 12,000 rpm and 63.1 Nm at 10,000 rpm. The fuel injection system with 36 mm throttle bodies was the biggest upgrade while the rest simply came natural for Yamaha and the 2004 FZ6 is very close even to the 2009 model year.

The bike was revised in 2006. The optimized fuel injection system increased the engine’s low-en torque and a metal honeycomb type catalytic converter was added. Enhancing the aggressive look were the black painted engine, frame, subframe, grabhandle, rear swingarm and wheels.

Yamaha also updated the bike for 2007. It now had a 3-way catalytic converter, new swingarm, new passenger pegs and new four-piston monoblock brake calipers front brakes. New FZ1-like instrument cluster now featured analog tachometer and digital speedometer. The seat was redesigned as well as the fairing and windscreen.

The 2008 model year features black front cowling around the headlights no matter color while 2009 adds a plus of comfort with the aftermarket seat becoming standard.

Competition

2009 Suzuki GSX650F

Suzuki quit making half-faired SV650 models so you will have to choose between their bare naked SV650 and their fully-faired SV650SF. But if you are into sport bike looks, it is also more than worth to take in consideration their 2009 GSX650F. Unlike the SV models, this one is powered by a 656 cc liquid-cooled inline four-stroke, DOHC engine that is as well fuel injected so definitely comparable FZ6’s engine. Still, Yamaha’s FZ6R is a much better competitor for the Suzuki GSX650F, but we work with what we have.

2009 Kawasaki Ninja 650R

Kawasaki also goes for a full fairing so their 2009 Ninja 650R is an aggressive looking motorcycle, but not as threatening for the FZ6 as the GSX650F is. The engine is simply a fuel-injected 649cc liquid-cooled parallel-twin; DOHC, four-valve per cylinder which manages with Kawi’s 440.9 lbs curb weight, but not with this class leader.

2009 Honda CB600F

A naked alternative is the 2009 Honda CB600F Hornet. This one is fitted with a competitive 599cc inline-four engine featuring a PGM-FI electronic fuel injection and developing 100.57 hp at 12,000 rpm.

It is well worth mentioning that all of the models I previously mentioned appeared after the 1997 presentation of the Fazer in Paris. Many conclusions can result from there.

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