Yamaha FZ1 Fazer - Roadtest

Performance

Handling

Comfort

Looks

Equipment

Value

Overall

Technical summary

List Price:

£8,299

Insurance:

Group 15

Engine:

998cc in line four

Performance:

160mph max speed, 11 sec

Power:

150bhp

Weight:

199kg

MPG:

41mpg

Range:

150 miles

Review

The Yamaha FZ1 Fazer mixes a practical chassis with a detuned 998cc engine from 2002's R1 superbike - and the result is stunning.

This a sublime all-rounder that lends itself as adeptly to B-road blasts as it does city commutes.
Softer than a superbike, with a more upright, easy-going riding position, the FZ1 packs serious performance (you'll dismiss quarter of a mile from standstill in 11 seconds and go on to 160mph) but it's more comfortable and useful day-to-day than a conventional sports bike.

The biggest Fazer is available with or without a fairing - we reckon it looks better without - and comes with high-end suspension components to ensure it rides with more poise and finesse than you might expect of a value all-rounder like this. Wide bars give a street bike feel, but there's little in the way of weather protection.

The 150bhp engine smoothly delivers a top end surge of epic proportions, but it's just as happy cruising or dicing with stop-start traffic in town. It always feels responsive and super-smooth.

Downsides? The tank's on the small side so the range is limited to if you're riding hard (though 150 miles is possible). The seat is also a little uncomfortable over distance and there's not much equipment as standard, with ABS being a top-end option. Other than those minor drawbacks, this is a supremely capable machine with muscle bike looks to match. It's likely to be very reliable too.

The FZ1 is a little more expensive than budget big bikes like the Suzuki Bandit 1200 or Honda CBF1000 but offers more fun than either and is still prices well below more exotic rivals like the Benelli TNT or Aprilia Tuono. We reckon it's a top buy.

Verdict

Highly recommended. Fantastic, strong value all-rounder fitted with a detuned R1 engine for epic performance