FZ Rocks. Review on Yamaha FZ16

Decided to buy the FZ after reading reviews on Mouthshut. So thanks to all of you for helping me make the proper choice. The dilemma was between the sturdy, reliable and time tested Unicorn and the glam rocking FZ. FZ definitely doesn’t score high on a "family" bike but is the "driver's" bike.Followed my heart and got the FZ delivered in Feb end. Have completed 500 kms so far and the feeling has been simply awesome.

Have been a Yammy fan and had a Libero for 5 years which really was buttersmooth till the day I sold it for 18k. Not bad considering so many other 100cc options available in the market. FZ takes this smoothness and refinement to another level altogether. The meticulous detailing to small things makes it worth that extra that you pay to own this “superbike”.

Have read most reviews and wanted to point out some pros cons which people haven’t fully explored:

PROS:

Excellent refined engine.Absolutely no “knocking” even if you pick up on third gear. You can leave the clutch alone for most of the time.

Balanceof this bike is something that you need to experience first hand to appreciate. You don’t feel the need to put your feet down while making stops at signals and that too without doing acrobatic stunts to maintain balance. The rear tyre just plonks you on the road.

Twisting in trafficis a piece of cake. Have tried this on almost all bikes but trust me the “assurance” factor is way too high and you feel you can never “fall” from this mighty giant.

Drop dead looks.Inspite of the increased numbers on the road you still will get 90% of people drooling at your bike as it you are driving a 1000cc super bike. People just adore this bike and you will find other bikers trying to outrace you to boost their egos. Beating a FZ seems to have become the most gratifying thing for all the pulsars and apaches out there. The 60 km/hr limitation is really a killing factor and I wish they could hand over the bikes after the “curing” process inhouse.

The feel, exhaust note of the engine really makes the “big” bike feeling (on the exterior) seems “real” from the inside.

Now for the CONS:

Tight turning radius. This generally wont impact when you are driving but removing the bike from a cramped position is quite a task. Though the bike looks heavy it’s highly maneuverable but it takes lot of going back and forth to park in tight spots.

Riding position. If you are short in stature then reaching for the handle bar needs “some” bending. Takes the load off your back but is a real pain in the wrist, elbow and shoulder joints especially in traffic jams. Even though I am 5' 11" I can feel the pain. Hoping that my body gets adjusted to this soon.

Low battery indacator:They have an indicator for "engine problems" (dont know why?) but for a bike that relies on battery power to start there isnt a "low battery" indicator.

Seat issues:Yammy decided to keep a "play" for the seat to ensure that the seat locking was crisp and taut. But that means that the seat makes a "flapping" sound whle riding. Bit annoying.

Pillion seatis something that everyone has suggested. Short distances is fine but for longer distances your knees and thighs will get a good workout. Planning to modify the seat to make it more “straighter” to make it more comfortable for the pillion. Frankly, you wouldn’t care for the pillion much as you would want to ride alone with this beauty at all times.

Overall a good bike to own and NOT buying it would mean you jealously glaring at an FZ at the signal with a sinking feeling in your heart. It’s like repenting not marrying the right girl when you had the chance. Forget the additional cost…..thejoy is priceless. …Rock on