Yamaha claimed that one-third of those who purchase sportbikes are first-time motorcycle buyers. Well, I guess that’s the reason they came up with FZ6R- something for the young generation.
With a complete aggressive look of a sport bike, eye-compressing acceleration and 78 horsepower at 10,2000 rpm- the entire Yamaha comes wrapped in slick bodywork that even guys with gelled hair and tribal tats could love.
Though an entry –level sports bike, yet don’t let the “entry-level” designation leave you thinking that the FZ6R offers the thrills of an Antiques Roadshow marathon. Yamaha made the bike gentle enough for n00bs who want to build skills but sporty enough to keep experienced riders grinning. It’s also versatile enough for a weekday commute or some tight cornering on a Sunday afternoon.
The torquey 600-cc, 4-cylinder engine is tuned for mid-range oomph and makes wheelies a snap, if you’re into that sort of thing. It’s got nothing below 5,000 rpm, but raise revs above that and the power builds effortlessly and unsurprisingly to its peak of 78 horsepower at 10,2000 rpm. The FZ6R isn’t as fast as the R6 or other weapons-grade middleweight sportbikes, but if you’re just starting out, you certainly don’t need that much power.
Entry-level bikes often have suspensions with the cleverness of a screen door, but Yamaha didn’t withhold on the FZ6R. The 41mm non-adjustable fork and pre-load adjustable shock keep the bike more stable than a Navy SEAL sniper when you’re cornering, without sacrificing all-day comfort. But as good as the suspension is, the brakes are even better.
Sport bikes are usually about as comfy as a prostate exam, but the FZ6R offers a relaxed riding position with good wind protection. Easy adjustments let you lower the seat and move the bars back, while the clutch and brake levers need only a light pull and there is absolutely no vibration from the engine. Add a set of luggage and you could do a road trip on this bike. Try doing that on an R6.
Yamaha did a great job with the FZ6R. It’s stylish enough to satisfy boy-racers, quick enough to keep you grinning and a fantastic dance partner in tight curves. It comes with a Gas Engine and has been priced $7,090 approx.
Tags: adjustable shock, antiques roadshow, brake levers, cylinder engine, horsepower, level designation, navy seal, prostate exam, r6 yamaha, riding position, sportsbike, tribal tats, wind protection, yamaha fz6r