Yamaha FZ-X Review: Pros and Cons

Positives

Unique styling

The people wanted the XSR 155 mostly because of its retro-flavoured design. It was distinctive and stood out. And that is exactly what Yamaha looked to offer with the FZ-X. The motorcycle has the silhouette of the FZ-S, but with hints of the XSR here and there. Hence, there is the round LED headlamp, boxy fuel tank, fork gaiters, and aluminium brackets for the front fender. Yamaha has also fitted the FZ-X with dual-purpose tyres and a ribbed pattern seat that harks back to motorcycles from yesteryear. All in all, the FZ-X is a rugged and unique looking motorcycle with some funky colour options for it to stand out even more.

Fuel Efficiency

With the incessant rise in fuel cost, efficiency is of the highest priority and the Yamaha FZ-X ticks that box too. During our time with the motorcycle, it returned a healthy 54-55 kilometres per litre. With a tank capable of holding 10-litres of fuel, the FZ-X can run for roughly 550kms- an impressive number indeed.

Ease of riding

Just like its sibling, the FZ-S, the FZ-X is mainly focused on being a commuter, although a better one at that. It comes with a well-cushioned seat that is capable of providing consistent comfort even on longer rides. The seat is accommodating enough for taller individuals and long enough to fit a pillion easily. Speaking of which, the FZ-X’s ergonomics are relaxed too.

The rider does not sit completely upright but the wide handlebar offers credible leverage and a commanding riding position. That said, the motorcycle is also great fun to stand up and ride, especially if you are under 5’9”. While that makes it a breeze over rough patches, it would also let you take the broken road to avoid traffic. Nonetheless, with nimble handling and a good punch in the lower end, the FZ-X feels effortless while sieving through the chaos of the city.

Negatives

Vibey engine

Well, the 149cc engine that also does duty on the FZ-S does have good low and mid-range. It feels content at 70kmph and offers decent performance between 4000-6000rpm. However, as you give it the stick and the revs go beyond 6000rpm, the FZ-X begins to feel out of breath. The motorcycle then announces its displeasure with vibrations on the handlebar, footpeg and seat that get cumbersome as it nears its top speed of 107kmph.

Stiff suspension

As we mentioned earlier, the FZ-X’s seat is well-cushioned for both the rider and pillion. However, the suspension is set up to be stiff and poses a hassle over bumps and undulations on the tarmac. As speeds increase, the FZ-X will threaten to throw you off the seat. That said, with a pillion, the ride does settle down and seems much pliant than riding solo.

Build quality

Lastly, we feel Yamaha could have improved the FZ-X’s build quality as it has done with the R15 V4 and the MT-15 in recent years. Components like its switchgear feel tacky and we did find some unfinished panel gaps here and there as well.

Verdict

Everything said and done, the Yamaha FZ-X is a likeable motorcycle. It is comfortable and easy to ride, and agile as well. And with a styling somewhat derived from the XSR 155, the FZ-X would appease someone wanting an unconventional-looking commuter. Most importantly, Yamaha has focused on making the FZ-X to be fuel-efficient even though it meant losing out on outright performance. So, as a commuting tool, the Yamaha FZ-X hits the right buttons although if you want to be riding regularly on the weekend or for extended tours, the more capable FZ-25 seems like a better bet.

Photography by Kaustubh Gandhi