Yamaha FZ-S FI Version 4.0 Deluxe: Road Test Review

Styling and Quality

The styling revisions aren’t comprehensive, but they are noteworthy. Visually, the changes include a revised front fascia that now comprises a redesigned headlight. This low-slung lighting setup is flanked by body-coloured elements that enhance the visuals. Then, the cockpit includes a larger display than the Version 3.0 of the motorcycle, and this unit works with a Bluetooth setup. Further, the contrasting shade for the alloy wheels boosts the styling and premium feel of the Version 4.0.

However, everything else following the front fascia is similar to the Version 3.0. Thus, you would find a very familiar design for the fuel tank, seat, pillion grab-rail, and taillight. Now, this motorcycle looks appealing from certain angles, and also when you look closely at various details. But, the overall proportions feel uneven when seen in entirety, mainly due to the larger size of the fuel tank as against the sleek design of the headlight and tail section. That said, the overall quality looks good, and the paint quality, chrome bits around the fuel tank, and the dual-tone finish to the exhaust look appealing.

Ergonomics and Comfort

Being a roadster-segment motorcycle, the Yamaha FZ-S FI Version 4.0 Deluxe packs upright ergonomics. The flat handlebar is easy to reach, while the neutral position of the footpegs adds a pinch of sportiness to the rider’s triangle. Then, the saddle has a low height of just 790mm and is spacious enough to accommodate two adults. There is the light kerb weight of just 136kg as well, which makes the motorcycle easily manageable when moving in the parking lot, or putting it on the centre stand. In fact, if you know the right techniques, you can park it on the centre stand without dismounting from the saddle.

There are, however, some compromises in the comfort department, and it’s mostly due to the firm tuning of the suspension. The telescopic front forks and preload-adjustable rear monoshock carry a firm setting from the factory, which can be bothersome for people looking for a comfortable ride quality. However, this may appeal to some riders, especially the ones who enjoy a sporty tuning to the suspension setup – more on that in the latter part of the review. Further, apart from the firm suspension, the turning radius deserves a mention as well since it takes a wider line when moving the vehicle. This can be bothersome in tight parking places or while filtering through bumper-to-bumper traffic.

Performance and Handling

The FZ-S FI Version 4.0 Deluxe uses the 149cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine with single-overhead-camshaft and two valves as the Version 3.0. Linked to a five-speed gearbox, this motor delivers a maximum output of 12.2bhp at 7,250rpm and a peak torque of 13.3Nm at 5,500rpm. It feels comfortable anywhere above 3,000rpm but starts pulling cleanly from 4,000rpm onwards. The Version 4.0 Deluxe builds momentum until 7,000rpm, post which the acceleration starts to taper off. The speed of 60kmph comes at approximately 4,500rpm, while 80kmph arrives at 6,000 revs. In the fifth cog, the motorcycle achieved a top speed of 108kmph. Thus, while it can ride at 100kmph on the highway, the engine doesn’t feel very comfortable or refined at these speeds.

The braking hardware on this motorcycle, which comprises 282mm front and 220mm rear discs and a single-channel ABS, delivers a promising response. The setup feels progressive and packs a good bite, shedding speed at a commendable pace once the anchor is dropped. Now, the suspension setup is tuned for sporty handling which, as mentioned above, affects the comfort department negatively. This, however, aids the handling, and the Yamaha FZ-S FI Version 4.0 Deluxe feels agile and sporty. Then, there’s its light weight which, apart from being convenient in parking, also comes in handy while riding, especially in traffic.

Features and Technology

The features and technology department have received an upgrade during the 4.0 transition, and the instrument cluster now includes a larger display than the FZ-S Version 3.0. It packs more information as well, and the display shows fuel consumption and average speed details. Sadly though, it misses a gear position indicator, which can get inconvenient. Other readouts on this display include a speedometer, tachometer, two trip meters, fuel gauge, and a clock.

Meanwhile, the Bluetooth module works with a dedicated smartphone application. Now, while this display shows call alerts and SMS and email notifications, it misses out on the turn-by-turn navigation function. Notably, the negative LCD is easy to read. Then, the smartphone application records fuel consumption details and the last parked location and shows maintenance recommendations and malfunction notifications.

It also gets full-LED lighting, which means that the indicators, too, are now LED units. These look sleek and match well with the compact shape of the headlight and taillight. Further, the headlight delivers a decent performance and is sufficient to keep up with the performance of the engine. Lastly, there is the single-channel ABS and first-in-segment traction control system that aids rider safety and comes in handy when ridden aggressively. While the ABS comes to the rescue in wet riding conditions, we could not trigger the traction control system despite the most aggressive throttle inputs. Considering that the motorcycle gets a traction control system, a dual-channel ABS would have been apt for the package, especially considering that rivals such as the Bajaj Pulsar NS160 benefit from the feature.

Fuel Efficiency

The Yamaha FZ-S FI Version 4.0 Deluxe delivered a fuel economy of 57.4kmpl in Bikewale’s internal tests. This was achieved while riding in regular riding conditions at speeds of up to 60kmph. This fuel economy, along with the 13-litre fuel tank, gives the FZ-S FI Version 4.0 a range of almost 750km between fuel stops. Notably, this range will vary depending on a person’s riding style.

Conclusion

The latest iteration of the Yamaha FZ-S is for a modern, first-time buyer or someone who wants to upgrade from a 100-110cc motorcycle. It is efficient in terms of fuel economy, feels refined at city speeds, say around 60kmph or thereabouts, and is easily manageable, which is possible because of its accessible seat height and low kerb weight. The styling is appealing too, as long as you overlook the bulky shape of the fuel tank that makes things look out of proportion. Notably, all these things would cost you about Rs. 14,000 more than the Version 3.0, and if you aren’t running tight on budget, the Version 4.0 is a good choice. There’s just one problem for this Yamaha, and it’s called the Suzuki Gixxer 155.

Photography by Kaustubh Gandhi