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Yamaha 2005 FZ6

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supersize

Description:

* New-concept middleweight sportbike: High-performance but with an anything, anytime, anywhere attitude.
* Upright, comfortable riding position with great weather protection. Light, effortless handling for urban use, comfortable long-distance cruising, and serious sport riding too.

Engine:

* Super-light and compact YZF-R6-based engine is tuned for enhanced midrange performance as well as strong rev-ability.
* Cams and intake tracts are designed to produce maximum torque at 10,000 rpm, maximum power at 12,000 rpm.
* Group fuel injection combines simplicity with excellent response and performance.
* Powerful 32-bit processor and 4-jet bi-directional injectors negate the need for the R6’s suction-piston vacuum assist system and is 75% lighter.
* Six-speed gearbox with triangulated input and output shafts, heavy-duty clutch and through-the-frame shifter for years of precise, positive shifting.
* Stainless steel underseat exhaust system with heat shield looks cool and doesn’t interfere with passengers or luggage.
* Acoustic analysis of the downdraft intake tract and exhaust produce a bike that sounds as cool as it looks.
* Large radiator with ring-type fan for excellent cooling capacity.
* Yamaha Air Induction System, along with a metal honeycomb type catalytic converter, let the FZ6 pass strict EU2 and CARB emissions standards.

Chassis/Suspension:

* Strong and very light Controlled Fill die cast aluminum frame is made from only two pieces, which bolt together at the steering head and in the swingarm pivot area.
* Five-point stressed-member engine mounting design consists of two crankcase mounts per side and one mount on the left side of the cylinder head for excellent strength and light weight.
* Placing the engine’s crankshaft axis close to the FZ6’s roll axis aids quick handling and light, positive steering.
* 25 degrees of rake, 3.8-inch trail and 56.7-inch wheelbase for quick handling and excellent tracking.
* Single shock linkageless rear suspension is simple and light with sport-biased damping tuned for a controlled, progressive feel; extruded aluminum swingarm is 23.2 inches long for reduced chain-pull effect, further bolstering the FZ6’s outstanding handling.
* Placing the battery under the fuel tank and behind the steering head helps achieve 51-percent front wheel weight distribution and excellent handling.
* Single-piece upper triple clamp/ handlebar mount, with tubular handlebar for excellent front-end feel, feedback and light steering; 35-degree steering lock means excellent maneuverability in traffic.
* Extremely light YZF-R6-type 5-spoke wheels reduce unsprung weight by 18% for improved suspension action and handling, acceleration and deceleration.
* Thick dual seat offers exceptional solo or two-up comfort and passenger grab rails also serve as bungee attachment points.

Additional Features:

* LCD two-color instrument display with integrated bar-type tachometer on the left, and numerical speedometer in the center– also two tripmeters, clock, fuel, intake air temperature and water temperature gauges and usual indicator lights.
* 120/70-ZR17 and 180/55-ZR17 radial tires complement the FZ6’s modern look, and its increased torque and great handling fully exploit the superb grip they provide.
* Large windscreen provides good protection and minimal noise; anti-reversion panels on each side of the lower fairing reduce turbulence.
* Dual 12V 60/55-watt multireflector headlight gives a sleek, R1-type profile for superb aerodynamics and visibility.
* Completely unique, CAD-drawn fuel tank meets the needs of style, handlebar clearance and tactile feel in one beautiful package crafted from high-stretch titanium-rich alloy.
* Sporty taillight design reduces both weight and size while providing excellent visibility.
* Centerstand for easier maintenance.
* Standard toolkit and U-lock storage under the seat.

Retail Price $6,599 - Dealer Cost $5,603

Keywords:

2005 Yamaha FZ6

Author

Young
Respect My Authority!

Registered: January 2005
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana
Posts: 572

Review Date:

Would you recommend the product? Yes | Price you paid?: $6,300.00 | Rating: 8

Pros:	Comfort, Style, and Perfromance
Cons:	Fewer aftermarket parts compared to other models.

The FZ6 is a wonderful bike. It is comfortable to ride all day. The bike is a great performer in the sport touring category. It is not a full on sport bike but it handles very well and accelerates very well. It probably has 85-90% of a 600cc sport bikes performance only much more comfortable.
The clutch and throttle take a short time to get used to their unique quirks but after you do it is not much of an issue. The engine is \"buzzy\" between 5000-5500 rpm. The bike should come with better forks, shocks, and brakes. You can solve these problems by installing R6 forks and R6 brakes along with braided brake lines at minimal cost.
The bike is quick. It has been reported to complete the quarter mile in low 11\'s at 120 mph. It has a recorded top speed of 140 mph. It handles very well. It has very good cornering ability with lots of grip. The tall and wide handlebars make cornering a breeze.
The styling of the bike gets lots of attention. It\'s fairing is quite functional and gives the bike a unique look. The silver paint is beautiful and it is said to make the bike slightly faster than the blue model. The \"naked\" engine is an eye catcher.
The FZ6 is an awesome performer. Its styling is beautiful. It is also very unique. You will be hard pressed to find another one in your area. When you arrive at a location folks will show a lot of curiosity about this bike. This bike is fun and comfortable.

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Aim Small, Miss Small

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Aenygma
2 As 1

Registered: June 2004
Location: In a pretty house
Posts: 1109

Review Date:

Would you recommend the product? Yes | Price you paid?: Not Indicated | Rating: 9

Pros:	Great Ergos, Unique Styling, Good Power.
Cons:	Could use adjustable suspension, 20lbs lighter as well.

Original Review Date: Feb 2004.

Well, it\'s been 330 miles now with the all new 2004 Yamaha FZ6 so it\'s time to post my review. (Get Comfy)

What do you get when you take the R6 motor clean and polish it up a bit, a new group fuel injection system, and the new Yamaha CF Die Cast technology frame??

The 2004 Yamaha FZ6.

The FZ6 is a naked bike with very relaxed ergnomics. (As a matter of fact, the original goal given to the Yamaha designers was to make the best functional middle weight bike that emphasizes rider fit.)

The bike weighs in at 420lbs, which at first (as I had been following this bike from spy photos and what have you for almost a year) I thought would be about 20lbs more than it should be. While I bet they will in the coming years reduce its weight some, it really doesn't feel like 420 pounds, due to the fact that it has 51-49% weight distribution, a fairly low center of gravity and nice wide handlebars.

The bike is quite stunning looking, with very clean, complex, and curvy lines. The frame is so smooth and has basically no welds due to the CF die cast design. It has a sweet digital console, which shows among other things, the speed, rpm, oil, water, two trip meters, time, air intake temp, and a few other things. The only sore point at all about its looks would be the swingarm just doesn\'t have the same swoopy flow as just about every other part on the bike does. The finish on the bike is very good, nice and tight everywhere and all the plastic is resin moulded with colour in, so it won\'t fade or scratch off.

The FZ6 is an eye catcher as I have had people gather wherever I have been since I got it, to look at it, ask questions etc. (I am sure this is also due to the fact that this is a brand new model, and there are not that many out there)

The FZ6 engine produces 98HP, and the power band is pretty darn wide. It has fantastic roll on throttle in every gear, even if you should be one gear higher than you should be. Getting all this to the ground is a meaty 180/55 ZR-17 rear tire, which rides on a 5 spoke light alloy wheel. Of course we do need to stop too, and the FZ6 has that area covered as well with dual 298mm front rotors, and a 245mm rotor in the rear. I have found them to be excellent and have noticed no fade at all.

The suspension is one area where they did do a little cost cutting as it is non adjustable in the front and only has pre-load adjustment in the rear. (I set it up to one notch over medium since I am 200lbs) I will say though that at least they did use a nice 43mm fork up front and not something smaller. To be honest, the non adjustability to someone such as myself is not that big a deal, as I never really play around too much with those anyway. Still, I feel they should have just incorporated the R6 forks/brakes since these bikes are basically twins in many respects.

Another area the FZ6 could use a little help would be the seat cushioning. It seems so often now companies like to skimp on padding for whatever reason. It\'s not noticeable at first as the seat is wide enough, and grippy, but after about 70 miles on it, you will start to feel it in the ole butt. A simple gel pad or the old reliable shove a large mouse pad under the seat will solve the problem though.

In addition, while I have not read anywhere of anyone else noting this, I feel the windscreen, while effective could have been a little more so. A nice little lip at the end to help direct the wind up and over would have been nice. There is the double bubble already available for the FZ6 which extends the windscreen a bit, and has that little lip.

So to conclude this review I would have to say its defiantly one NICE bike!! From the stylish looks, the golden 4 into 2 headers all the way to the tres sexy under seat exhaust it is a winner in my book. Although I am not allowed to go past 7K RPM till after 600 miles, that has not been a problem, as 7K RPM on this bike = 90MPH : I have taken it a bit past 7K just for a couple of brief moments and it really pulls hard. Keep in mind it redlines at 14K RPM.

I do believe Yamaha has a winner here on their hands and am fairly confident that come next year not only will they bring more over, but I wouldn't be surprised if they include the non-faired version as well. :

-Aenygma

**Edit** For even more in depth coverage on all the technology in this bike visit...

http://www.motorcycledaily.com/12aug...yamaha_fz6.htm

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I Never Use Signatures.

FZS6TLdude
Superbike Racer

Registered: August 2005
Location: Bonham, TX
Posts: 275

Review Date:

Would you recommend the product? Yes | Price you paid?: Not Indicated | Rating: 9

Pros:	Upright riding position, balance, fuel capacity. MPG+
Cons:	Seat, no actual fuel reserve, chain drive?

Now have over 1000 miles on the bike.

Pros: Power and acceleration is more than you need on the street, or hwy. Passing a 60 mph \"slow poke\" is a easy role on of throttle, smooth rapid acceleration without shifting down, if you want. 60 to 70 mph crusing gives 50-51 mpg \"real world\" and 75 -85 gives 45 mpg. Range on the 5.13 gal. (US) gives 200 -210 (50 mg) mile range before reserve indicator activation (Trip odometer comes on \"F: miles\" travel indicated after activation) and approximatly 30 to 45 mile range. Maintance is simple enough, oil 4000 and filter 8000 miles, valves 26000, chain 500 miles. Great design, easy to drain, and change oil filter.

Cons: The chain is the only maintance issue, although its simply it makes other repairs easier (tire change, flat repair). I just have to oil it weekly, minor issue, due to the amount of miles I travel.

The real downer is the SEAT! I ride 300-500 miles a week, a 105 mile trip once a week one way. So I\'m in the saddle for an 1 1/2 hours to 2 1/2 hours due to traffic. The seat is the only real down fall of a great bike. It\'s OK, just could be improved, my butt doesn\'t need that much rear seat room, and for two up my wife could sit closer if the rear portion came forward more. Curving the plastic and removing the \"plastic edge\" and adding some more padding would help.
Motor does buzz a bit, but compaired to a 1973 850 Commando, its nothing. Others complain about a clunky transmission, I don\'t see it as an issue, I\'ve riden worse, and clunkyer (is that a word?)
Would like to see Yamaha address the seat issue . More padding and curving of the seat edge, Yamaha! Also the tool kit could use longer wheel axel wrenches.

These are minor flaws, I realy like the bike and many of my friends do too. 50 MPG is great, and the maintance is low for a bike. Oil and filter changes are easy.

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Bike Mods:VistaCruise Throttle Lock, Power Port on leftside in the faring housing, 17T front sprocket.
Gear:helmet:Shoei RF-1000 with in helmet speaker mod for mp3 player/phone, jacket: Joe Rocket Alter Ego, pants: Joe Rocket Alter Ego, gloves: Joe Rocket Atomic.
Luggage: Rapid Transit Recon 45 Saddle Bags

Daily commuter and all season rider.

Ride a an FZ6, save energy (46+mpg), lower your green house gas emissions, and keep the rubber side down.

cheticampdude
SBN Rookie

Registered: December 2005
Location: Framingham, Ma.
Posts: 13

Review Date:

Would you recommend the product? Yes | Price you paid?: $6,700.00 | Rating: 10

Pros:	everything
Cons:	seat,chain

Thanks for the postings, I am looking fwd to my 2006 FZ6. Its arriving in Feb and not a min too soon. Although it will spend the winter months indoors antisapating the springtime with me , at least it will be within eyesight. (I am going to check out a gell seat after reading the seat reviews because I will be riding it to Cape Breton to tour the Cabot trail. Its an awsome ride on a motorcycle.I have a summer home in Cheticamp where the trail and hills start to unravel before your eyes as you go around the island.Been talking about it ,now Its almost within reach. JL

Craig 380
SBN Rookie

Registered: December 2005
Location: North-central Texas
Posts: 17

Review Date:

Would you recommend the product? Yes | Price you paid?: $6,300.00 | Rating: 9

Pros:	smooth quick throttle response
Cons:	very few aftermarket products in the United States

I have about 2200 miles on my 2005 FZ6. I've had it for about five months now and have loved every second of it. I ride the bike pretty hard for just street riding. Although I'm certain that a day at the track with this bike would be very rewarding. It has plenty of acceleration and exceptional handling. I have made a few aftermarket changes to it, such as adding frame sliders, swingarm spools and an aftermarket exhaust. The exhaust alone made the biggest difference in power for this bike. The FZ6 is marketed as a "de-tuned" R6 motor. By adding the Two Brothers exhaust to this bike, really helps link the gap between the two bikes.
I am a relatively small guy. The seat height is just fine for me and have had no discomfort issues with the saddle. This is an excellent bike for the beginning rider all the way through the most experienced riders. It has smooth powerful roll-on power that is easily predictable. Yamaha definitely has a winner with this bike!

ped
500 G.P. Champion

Registered: May 2006
Location: usa
Posts: 1604

Review Date:

Would you recommend the product? Yes | Price you paid?: $6,799.00 | Rating: 10

Pros:	fast, cheap, handling performance, technology..
Cons:	too petty to list here!

I love with my FZ6! i have 1300 miles on it, and had it 3 weeks (its been rainy here, if it werent it would have about 500 more). the only other sport bike i've riddin and still ride on occasion is a 03 R6. id personally rather have this bike! its really not all that slower than the R6 and its great for dual purpose sport and commute. i cant imagine any bike being 100% perfect, and its no exception. all my gripes are extremely minor though.
1. its a bit heavy, especially compared to the R6 it rests next to 24/7.
2. the seat, like every bike ive ridin gets uncomfy after about 1-1.5 hours. (interestingly my previous bike was suzuki GZ250 cruiser and i can go about 2 times the amount with the FZ6 before getting ass pains, and on a cruiser my back gets really sore from the riding position.. on the FZ6 ive gone about 8 hours in one day and never felt a trace of pain in my back.)
3. the whole clutch thing is a bit rough, but you get used to it quick, especially if you've had experience on other bikes.
... i really cant name any more.
i almost went with a SV650S, im SO glad i got this instead!

arkane1234
Tire Wear Limit Tester

Registered: October 2004
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Posts: 52

Review Date:

Would you recommend the product? Yes | Price you paid?: $6,799.00 | Rating: 5

Pros:	inexpensive, sporty yet tourish, rugged
Cons:	soft front suspension, loud gearbox, buzzy at certain rpms (exhaust touches underbody)

I owned the 2004 FZ6 and put 25,780 miles on it in 2 years. October 2004 - November 2006)

This bike is a great entry-level bike with lots of potential to be expanded as time goes on and the rider becomes more aggressive. While not exactly supersport, this bike can corner like any other sport bike and has the power to raise the hairs on the back of your neck.
Alot of people compare it to the R6, but it's definitely not geared towards that crowd. This is for the person who enjoys casual low-rpm riding (not harley low, but 4-6K rpm) with spirit and power when it's needed/wanted. Smack this bike to 9-10K and drop 2nd gear with spirit, you'll have a front wheel airborne!
This bike is great for a person who would buy an Ninja 500R but wants a bit of power to go with the package. This bike is not lacking in the looks department and is great for entry-level riders looking into sport-touring on a budget.
Though the first thing I would do if I bought this bike again is replace the front forks with a 2003 R6 fork/brake set (and dialing the forks in) before putting a mile on it.
Just a warning: first gear is very very clunky, it takes getting used to. What I've found is that giving it a bit of throttle right before shifting takes the load off of the gearbox and shifts alot smoother.

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--
'98 Kawasaki Ninja 500R
Traded-in: '04 Yamaha FZ6 (FAZR6 Fender Eliminator, Hugger delete, R6 forks/brakes mod, Blacked-out windscreen, Blackbird CBR1100XX Clipons)
2001 Yamaha R6 - BONE stock

pointer
---------------

Registered: January 2007
Location: WI
Posts: 527

Review Date:

Would you recommend the product? Yes | Price you paid?: $6,400.00 | Rating: 9

Pros:	Versatile and very functional for a variety of uses.
Cons:	After 2 years I can honestly say nothing

It's very versatile...good solid performer on all fronts. The reveiws have always given this bike top in class and for good reason.

JWALD
SBN Rookie

Registered: February 2007
Location: hattiesburg ms
Posts: 15

Review Date:

Would you recommend the product? Yes | Price you paid?: $5,900.00 | Rating: 8

Pros:	Handling, power,
Cons:	Comfort

Bought my 2005 FZ6 in Jan,07. Got it new (dealer leftover). Have 3000 miles on it. Handeling, power, acceleration, looks are all great. Due to the "naked" design, maintenance is a breeze. Has some comfort issues for shorter riders(I'm 5'-8"). The seat is to wide and box shaped. Handlebar position puts stress on your wrist and back. Both an easy fix. Took seat to an autotrim shop. Had them cut it to more of a saddle shape. Put 1" risers on handlebars. Problem solved!

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Headlight Mod, Shogun Frame Sliders, Cortech saddlebags, GenMar risers

coondogg
World Superbike Champion

Registered: July 2006
Location: Pittsburgh
Posts: 693

Review Date:

Would you recommend the product? Yes | Price you paid?: $5,800.00 | Rating: 10

Pros:	Low maintenance, 5.1 gallon tank, Cheap Insurance, Excellent commuter bike
Cons:	Suspension an over all lack of adjustability

Low maintenance, 26,000 mile valve adj., fuel injection, easy access for oil/filter change. 5.1 gallon tank, with reported 45-50 mpg. Range est. 190 miles to reserve, with an est. 35 -45 miles on reserve. Good power, smooth motor, high revs. (fun factor), and a 6 speed transmission. Cheap Insurance. Comfortable, seat does take some getting use to, but does break in after a while (3000 miles). Excellent commuter bike. Riding position up right not "hunched over". Quiet exhaust, does not attract attention of law enforcement. 2up riding is good, and can carve up the road and twistys while providing the rider with confidence and plenty of agility to keep up with machines that are twice as expensive and perform at about 80% of the ultimate machines performance level.

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Mods:Black Anodized Uncaged Sliders/FAZR6's FE/Heavy Black Milled Throttlemeister/SW Motech Bar Risers/Laser 'X-treme' Exhaust/Laser Sports Collector/Conti Road Attacks(love them!)

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