Under the sculpted fuel tank sits a 249cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled four-stroke engine with SOHC and two valves, which pushes out 20.9hp at 8, 000rpm and 20Nm of peak torque at 6, 000rpm. On paper, we found the power figure to be slightly low. However, the power is delivered smoothly, predictably and in a linear manner. The engine’s character instantly reminds you of the smaller FZ16’s engine characteristics. The torque delivery is quite satisfactory, ensuring good performance in the urban crawl. What we particularly liked was the throttle response – a slight twist of the wrist and there is an almost immediate response from the engine. This unit is mated to a five-speed gearbox that shifts crisply and precisely. Engine refinement levels are up to Yamaha’s mark and claimed fuel efficiency, at 43kpl, is good.
