2009 Yamaha FZ6

YAMAHA FZ6 HIGHLIGHTS

Price :$7,290.00
Bodystyle : Sports All Round
Warranty : 12 months
Manufacturer Country : Japan
Model Year : 2009
Displacement (cc) : 600
Engine Type : Horizontal In-line

Horsepower(bhp) : 98

VEHICLE REVIEW

2009 Yamaha FZ6

Yamaha has a vast super sport offering especially in the middleweight class and the 2009 FZ6 completes their lineup with bold half-faired style and YZF-like performance, but without the fatiguing riding position that always puts its fingerprint on a rider’s lower back and wrists. Following a natural evolution and enjoying immense popularity among those who require everything from a road bike, the Yamaha FZ6 is truly worth our attention.

Extreme handling,impressive power, built for exhilarating performance,simply the best

Just how the Yamaha YZF-R6 takes a more docile approach in the form of the YZF-R6S, the FZ6 exploits the commuter side of the “S” model. But that’s just in theory as the engine is the only unit that the FZ6 shares with the R6S. The 600cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder; DOHC, 16 valves has proven a top performer on all models that it powered, the last being the FZ6R, a fully faired model which we’ve earlier previewed for you.Still, in 2009, the Yamaha FZ6 stands out thanks to the same old recipe: a light, comfortable and versatile overall package powered by a more than decent number of horses that satisfies all rider’s needs as long as they plan to stay on road. Furthermore, the “Comfort seat”, previously found only in the accessory list, is now standard.The engine is fuel injected and mated to a six-speed gearbox through a multi-plate clutch and that immediately qualifies it as a class leader. But, probably the best of it is the compact, light bodywork (459 lb wet weight) and front/rear 5.1 inches of travel offered by the 43mm telescopic fork and single shock. Also, with 17-inch alloy wheels and two 298mm floating discs up front and a 245mm rear one, you know that the bike’s DNA links it to the track although you will most likely never ride it there.

Despite introducing the fully-faired 2009 FZ6R, Yamaha carries on the production of the half-faired FZ6 as the market surely hasn’t had enough of it. No wonder as the versatile 600cc bike features an aggressive bodywork even though designers didn’t had much to work with given the bike’s nature. With FZ1-like headlights, fairing and windscreen, this bike not only walks on the footsteps of its bigger siblings when it comes to performance, but stylistically too. The 5.1 gallons tank features that aggressive hump too as there isn’t much need for the rider to squat under the windscreen because of the upright riding position and the windscreen positioning angle.Ever since 2004, the bike features the four-into-two under seat exhaust which enhances the sporty look. And so do the black painted 17-inch five-spoke wheels and all other mechanical and chassis units. Riders buying the 2009 Yamaha FZ6 will benefit of a new Comfort seat which was previously available only in the accessory list. Also, the 2009 colors are Deep Blue and Raven.

Onboard the Yamaha FZ6 you get a great view of the road and traffic ahead you thanks to the great ergonomics which allow for an upright riding position. The seat is spacious for a sport bike and very comfortable while the handlebars are brought close to the rider for less back stress. But despite of the standard bike-like accommodations, wind protection is very good at all riding speeds mostly due to the windscreen which directs the air flow well above the average sized rider’s head. Also, the fairly wide fairing is designed to send the air just over your shoulders as you get lower and lower concomitant with increasing speed. The knees will experience a little bit of harsh wind as there is no lower body fairing, but nothing spectacular. Even though the bike looks tall in the pictures, it has a 31.3 inches high seat so it will put no problems when it comes to flat footing the ground to any average sized rider again.The engine performs as well as it looks. There is plenty of low-end torque and first gear isn’t short at all so you’ll be always the first to take off from traffic lights. Smooth accelerating and consequent in delivering impressive midrange power in all gears, the fuel injected previous generation R6 engine only requires a powerful twist of the throttle in order to get that front wheel airborn. Precise and easy to work with, the six-speed gearbox will have newbies get accustomed with it very fast although at first the second gear seems the most appropriate especially during city riding. That is possible thanks to a wide rpm range. Note that the four-cylinder engine meets its sweet spot at 12,000 where all 98 horses are put down so playing with the throttle is THE way to learn how to ride these things. Handling the FZ6 feels light and reassuring. The bike plants itself well in tight corners and although you won’t be scrapping the pavement, you’ll manage to scare the passenger each and every time you lean close to the limits. Also, due to the riding position, the FZ6 practically invites you to move on the seat very much as you turn left and right and so on during winding roads where you’ll also be playing with the throttle very much. So reaching speeds of up to 50 mph in these conditions justifies the passenger’s terrified face from when the ride is over.The suspension (nonadjustable 43 mm fork and preload adjustable rear monoshock) though is undersprung and on bumpier roads can feel overwhelmed. The fact that Yamaha designed this bike strictly for street riding doesn’t justify that as even at speed bumps you get that effect. Still, the bike is stable and handles spotless at speeds in excess of 120 mph. Thank goodness this thing can break. With a pair of 298 mm front rotors on which four-piston calipers are acting and a 245 mm rear one with a single-piston caliper, the Yamaha FZ6 benefits of confidence inspiring braking power. That’s good to hear considering the powerful engine which practically begs to be revved even when the conditions aren’t the most appropriate.Riding the FZ6 is always an enjoyable experience mostly because the bike can keep the pace with sportier models or even it’s bigger sibling, the FZ1.

STANDARD FEATURES

R6"S" based, ultra-compact, 600cc, liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16-valve, slant block inline four powerplant. Virtually all the internal engine components are R6"S" spec including crankshaft, con rods, valve sizes, bore & stroke etc.

Specially designed, one-piece cylinder and upper crankcase assembly provides superior engine rigidity and reduces weight.

"Liner less" cylinder has special ceramic composite plating applied directly to the aluminum cylinder block for greater heat dissipation, reduced frictional losses, reduced oil consumption and lighter weight.

Lightweight forged pistons feature carburized connecting rods for superb strength and reduced reciprocating mass. The result is excellent engine response.

Hollow side-driven camshafts with computer perfected valve timing help create a very narrow engine. The key difference between the R6"S" and FZ6 engines is the camshafts in the FZ6 have different cam profiles and slightly different intake tracts for more low to mid range power.

Compact slant-block engine uses stacked gearbox shafts to create a shorter engine (front to back) which allows for optimum engine placement in the frame for a balanced weight distribution and great handling.

"Tri-Axis" 6-speed transmission has been optimized to accommodate the engine character of the FZ6. The secondary reduction ratio is 46/16 (Vs. a reduction ratio of 48/16 for the R6S). Gear widths, splines and engagement dogs are optimized for smooth shifting under power.

"Tri-Axis" or stacked transmission design creates a more compact engine front to back that allows for optimum engine placement in the frame for optimized balanced weight distribution and incredible handling.

"Group-Type" Mikuni 36mm throttle body fuel injection provides outstanding throttle response and excellent fuel economy. This system uses fewer sensors than the R6"S" while also being lighter and more compact.

Group fuel injection divides the four cylinders into two groups (1 & 4 and 2 & 3) with two injections of fuel for every 720 degrees of crank rotation (the R6"S" system utilizes a sequential injection for each cylinder).

Compact "high dynamic range" injectors use 4-hole / 2-direction spray type injectors. A high powered, compact 32 bit CPU controls the injection process. For 2007 the FI settings and mapping were revised for improved performance in the most often used speed ranges.

Progressive type throttle pulley and direct coupler type TPS (throttle position sensor) provides easy throttle control without the annoyance of FI surging.

6.3 litre airbox is "optimized" to take full advantage of the downdraft intake system.

Air Induction System (AIS) reduces harmful hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide (HC & CO) emissions.

4 into 2 into 1 into 2 stainless steel exhaust system features a stylish under seat muffler that is a one piece unit with dual outlets. A special resin cover protects the muffler and keeps hot components away from the rider and passenger.

A special connector pipe joins the header pipes between cylinders #2 and #3 pipes to provide outstanding low to mid range torque.

The exhaust system utilizes a total of 3 honeycomb catalytic converters to reduce harmful emissions such as CO, HC, CO2 and NOx into less harmful by products. The result is very clean running engine that easily surpasses the new EU3 European emission standards.

A heater type oxygen sensor has been installed in the exhaust system to provide continual info back to the ECU which in turn provides the optimum fuel/air mixture for impressive performance with reduced emissions.

High capacity radiator with ring-type cooling fan insures maximum cooling efficiency.

Liquid cooled oil cooler maintains consistent oil temperatures for extended engine and lubricant life.

Maintenance-free transistor controlled digital ignition ensures fast starts and optimum engine performance.

High tech, C.F. (controlled fill) die cast twin spar main frame is used. There are no welding points on this frame, since it bolts together. A rigid type engine mounting system is used to increase overall chassis rigidity for great handling and also to reduce the weight of the actual frame.

Front / rear weight distribution is 51% front and 49% rear for light, responsive handling.

Detachable steel rear sub frame provides easy access to the rear shock and reduces costs in the event of a "loop-out".

Extra long extruded box section aluminum swingarm provides maximum rear wheel traction and a light handling feel that the FZ6 is famous for.

Conventional 43mm cartridge style forks provide great handling and excellent ride comfort. Plastic protectors help prevent tube damage due to stone chips. Wheel travel is 130mm (5.1").

"Link less" rear suspension means the rear shock mounts directly to the frame and swingarm without the use of linkages. The rear suspension system has been designed to provide a rising rate feeling without the additional weight of linkage arms and pivot points. The shock features 7-way spring pre-load adjustability. Wheel travel is 130mm (5.1")

Dual 298mm floating front disc brakes are squeezed by 4-piston, ultra rigid R6"S" inspired monoblock calipers. Braking performance is impressive and lever feel is excellent. "Trifurcate type" front brake hose reduces weight (Trifurcate type brake hose means there is one brake hose from the master cylinder and it splits at the front fender area and crosses over to the second caliper).

245mm rear disc brake with Nissin single piston caliper provides excellent stopping power.

Sporty FZ1 inspired ½ cowl offers great wind and weather protection. An inner panel around the instrument area provides a clean, quality image for the "cockpit". The fairing also features a stylish 'conventional" windshield design.

Stylish 19.4 liter (4.3 Imp. gal.) fuel tank (3.6 liters is the reserve portion) features an in-tank electronic fuel pump.

Lightweight R6 style, 5-spoke mag wheels fitted with Z rated radial tires reduce unsprung weight for incredible handling performance.

One-piece seat design offers excellent rider and passenger comfort.

FZ1 based multi-function instrument assembly. Features include an analog tach, digital speedo, dual tripmeters, fuel reserve tripmeter, clock, fuel gauge and water temperature as well as a selection of warning lights. The back lighting can be adjusted to suit rider preferences.

Conventional handlebar design provides a comfortable riding position and also allows easy handlebar replacement.

R1 inspired dual "cat eye" halogen headlights cast a bright beam of light. (Note: Only one headlight - RHS- lights on low beam. Both lights light on high beam)

OVERVIEW SPECIFICATIONS

ENGINE

Bore (in) : 2.58
Bore (mm) : 65.5
Compression Ratio : 12.21
Cooling : Liquid
Cylinders : 4
Displacement (cc) : 600
Displacement (ci) : 36.6
Emissions Standards : Meets Euro 2 Emissions
Engine Configuration : Horizontal In-line
Engine Type : 4-Stroke
Fuel Injector : Yes
Fuel Injector Size (mm) : 36
Fuel Requirements : Regular
Fuel System Type : Fuel Injected
Ram Air Induction : No
Starter : Electric
Stroke (in) : 1.75
Stroke (mm) : 44.5
Valve Configuration : DOHC
Valves : 16
Valves Per Cylinder : 4

TRANSMISSION

Number Of Speeds : 6
Overdrive : No
Primary Drive (Rear Wheel) : Chain
Reverse : No
Transmission Type : Manual

SUSPENSION & STEERING

Air Adjustable : No
Front Adjustable Fork Pre-Load : No
Front Adjustable Rebound Damping : No
Front Central Suspension Strut : No
Front Fork Diameter (in) : 1.7
Front Fork Diameter (mm) : 43
Front Suspension Type : Telescopic Fork
Front Travel (in) : 5.1
Front Travel (mm) : 129.5
Number Rear Shock Absorbers : 1
Rear Adjustable Rebound Damping : No
Rear Adjustable Shock / Spring Pre-Load : Yes
Rear Suspension Type : Twin Sided Swing Arm
Rear Swingarm Material : Aluminum
Rear Travel (in) : 5.1
Rear Travel (mm) : 129.5
Steering Damper : No

WHEELS

Front Wheel Diameter : 17
Front Wheel Width (in) : 3.5
Rear Wheel Diameter : 17
Rear Wheel Width (in) : 5.5
Tube / Tubeless : Tubeless
Wheels Composition : Aluminum

TIRES

Front Tire (Full Spec) : 120/70 ZR17
Front Tire Aspect Ratio : 70
Front Tire Speed Rating : Z
Front Tire Width : 120
Rear Tire (Full Spec) : 180/55 ZR17
Rear Tire Aspect Ratio : 55
Rear Tire Speed Rating : Z
Rear Tire Width : 180

BRAKES

Front Brake Diameter (in) : 11.7
Front Brake Diameter (mm) : 298
Front Brake Type : Dual Hydraulic Disc
Front Caliper Pistons : 4
Rear Brake Diameter (in) : 9.7
Rear Brake Diameter (mm) : 245
Rear Brake Type : Hydraulic Disc
Rear Caliper Pistons : 1

SEATS

Adjustable : No
Grab Rail or Strap : Standard
Number Of Seats : 2
Seat Height (in) : 31.3
Seat Height (mm) : 795
Seat Location : Driver and Passenger
Seat Material : Vinyl
Seat Specifications : Standard
Seat Type : One-Piece

BODYWORK

Adjustable : No
Belt Guard : No
Body Material : Plastic
Brush Guard : No
Carburetor Cover : No
Chain Guard : Yes
Choke Knob Cover : No
Construction : Standard
Drive Shaft Cover : No
Drive Shaft Guard : No
Exhaust Guard : Yes
Exterior Covers : Standard
Exterior Guards : Standard
Foot Peg Location : Driver and Passenger
Foot Peg Material : Aluminum
Fork Guards : No
Frame : Aluminum
Front Fender : Standard
Front Fender Material : Plastic
Hand Grip Material : Rubber
Hand Grips : Standard
Hand Guards : No
Heel Guards : Yes
License Plate : Standard
Light Guard : No
Rear Fender : Standard
Rear Fender Material : Plastic
Saddle Bag Guard : No
Stand : Standard
Stand Type : Center / Kick
Swing Arm Cover : No
Tank Cover : No
Tire Valve Cap : Yes
Upper Fairing : Standard
Valve Stems : Yes

FUEL CAPACITY

Fuel Capacity (gal) : 5.1
Fuel Capacity (l) : 19.3
Fuel Capacity Reserve (gal) : 0.95
Fuel Capacity Reserve (l) : 3.6

COLOURS

Deep Blue

Raven

DIMENSIONS

Adjustable Levers : Standard
Capacities : Standard
Comment : Standard
Dimensions : Standard
Dry Weight (kg) : 186
Dry Weight (lbs) : 410
Handlebar Lock : Standard
Height (in) : 47.6
Height (mm) : 1209
Model Year : 2009
Length (in) : 82.5
Length (mm) : 2095.5
Manufacturer Country : Japan
Manufacturer Recommend Minimum Age : 16
Manufacturer Type : Sports All Round
MIC Model Segment : ON-HWY Sport Bike 501-750cc
Previous Model Year Accessories : Yes
Product Type : Motorcycle / Scooter
Rake (degrees) : 25
Revision Status : Carryover
Satellite : No
Trail (in) : 3.8
Trail (mm) : 96.5
Weight : Standard
Wet Weight (kg) : 208.2
Wet Weight (lbs) : 459
Wheelbase (in) : 56.7
Wheelbase (mm) : 1440.2
Width (in) : 29.5
Width (mm) : 749.3