The Yamaha FZ8->ke3596 has been built to offer the perfect compromise for riders who feel that a 600cc bike is too small, but a 1,000cc bike is too big.

The bike really is the best of both worlds, providing a carefully optimized crankshaft to deliver the perfect power curve and torquey performance character for this category while also including new top-end components that are usually reserved for its more powerful counterparts.

The FZ8's mass-forward naked-bike styling also lends a look of a bike that's less about flash and more about its performance and handling capabilities. Anybody that has ever ridden a 600cc bike and found it a little lacking in 'oomph' will love the FZ8. Similarly, those people that find a 1,000cc to be an overkill will be delighted with this Yamaha->ke301 sportsbike.

You add these two markets together and this sportsbike is the quintessential machine hitting two markets in one awesome package.

Find out more about the Yamaha FZ8 after the jump. } }

2011 Yamaha FZ8

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2011 Yamaha FZ8
  • Engine/Motor: liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, inline 4-cylinder, 4-valve engine
  • Horsepower: 106 horsepower at 10,000 rpm
  • Torque: 60 lb/ft of torque at 8,000 rpm
  • Transmission: close-ratio 6-speed transmission
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Features

Aside from having a few similarities to FZ1 and FZ6->ke2045, the 2011 Yamaha FZ8 still possesses original features. A newly designed fuel-injected 4-cylinder engine makes this a unique bike.

Brakes

The FZ8 has twin front disc brake specs that were nearly identical at 310mm, and a single 267mm disc. Both of these were pinched by a four-piston front and single-piston rear calipers.

Engine

Another great thing that Yamaha did to the FZ8 was its 779cc engine. This engine has the power to deliver 106.2 hp at 10,000 rpm and 60.8 ft-lb of torque at 8,000 rpm. It has two injectors per cylinder, accompanied by a generous 7.8L air box and asymmetrical intake manifolds. The engine's two inner cylinders generate more torque and the two outers focus more on power.

Power Delivery

The FZ8's power delivery is a big advantage for all riders. The off the line grunt is delivered from as low as 3500RPM and, below 6,000RPM, this bike responds with a smooth and fluid power delivery. These features were intended to produce a strong bottom end power development to make the FZ8 user-friendly.

Design

The 2011 FZ8 model is equipped with a front cowl and screen. A short muffler, narrow tank, and a 3-part tank cover are some of the aspects that make the FZ8 stand out among its siblings while the black side parts, colored tank, and headlight unit add a strong-looking detail. All in all, the bike looks fast even when it's standing still. This could be due to the fact that the bike has a sensually curved diamond frame and muscular 4-cylinder engine.

The riding position is sporty, but comfortable, with a seat height of 815mm and a narrow tank which gives the rider good ground access.

Wheels

The FZ8's wheels have five-spoke cast aluminium rims placed on a 120/70 ZR17 tire for the front and a 180/55 ZR17 for the rear. This gives the bike outstanding ride feel, grip, and cornering performance.

As stated above, the 2011 Yamaha FZ8 is a combination of the great and popular features being utilized in the earlier bikes released by Yamaha. With an MSRP of $10,499, the FZ8 is ideal for novice riders ready to step up from their training bikes, or for intermediate riders who are seeking "big bike" credit, near-sportbike grins in the twisties, and a hint of upright practicality.