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| Review |
So far, I’ve been a bit reluctant to write a review on my Fazer. I think the fear of me finding faults with it would put me off and have me scanning the pages of UKbike for a new machine!
The Yamaha FZS 600 Fazer (2000 model) has got to be one of the most underrated bikes I know. I think the looks turn people away from it, but once you’re riding, you’ll find it a most pleasurable experience. On first impressions, it’s looks will put you off. It certainly isn’t the most aesthetically pleasing bike to look at, but as the overused cliché goes ‘Don’t judge a book by its cover’.
The engine is a detuned Thundercat engine (or so I am told!) which can throw out around 80-90 bhp. Doesn’t sound like much I know, but you hit around 5000 revs in the right gear and it’s one almighty punt up the rear end when you crack it open. Top speed is a claimed 135mph but I haven’t been there on it… *Whistles and rolls eyes*. 2nd gear will see you up to 70mph quite happily and a quick shift to third will keep the acceleration at the same pace. The delivery of power is smooth and efficient without stuttering or jerkiness. Downside ot it is the manual choke, but it’s easy to get used to. My Father rides a Fazer too and says he doesn’t need the clutch at all on warmer days, but mine does. It’s not a hassle tbh.
A full tank will see 200miles at a push. The light will be shining at you, begging for attention, but it is possible. I filled up in Norwich and rode all the way to Brighton on one tank! Hard to believe maybe… but true. Before the government decided it wanted more money out of us, a full tank would cost in the region of about £17.
The ride is really comfortable. The Fazer was designed as a sports/tourer and it certainly does the job well. The seat is nicely padded and bars aren’t slung low so a natural seated position can be achieved… well, a natural biking seated position can be achieved, it’s not like a Harley or anything! Your back won’t suffer and your wrists don’t kill when you get off after a 200mile stint. I’ve ridden sports bikes before and I just can’t get on with the position. The Fazer accommodates nicely in this department. The ride height might be an issue for shorter riders, and it is heavy too (compared to the more modern bikes) so you won’t want to drop it on your own! As I mentioned before, it’s a sports tourer, so it’s set up for comfy, long distance riding. You can get your head down for short stints but you’ll find yourself naturally sitting upright again. The suspension can be soft in the corners. Probably a little too soft as a few times now I’ve tucked it into a corner and felt the front compress just that little bit too much. A quick tightening should sort that issue out. Pillions won’t suffer either as the seat is one unit, not two. Grab rail at the rear allows for large gloved hands and the pegs are positioned so your knees aren’t wrapped around your ears.
Maintenance to the engine is easy. Being half faired means the engine is open for tinkering with without the rigmarole of removing fairings and plastics. Case in point, an oil and spark plug change took all of 20mins (Plugs are a little hard to get to) compared to the 20mins it took my mate to get the fairing off his GSXR K4… then start on the changes. The half fairing works wonders on the roads. The screen deflects the wind admirably and does a good job of punching through it too. Some riders might want to put a belly pan on as this isn’t a stock feature. A centre stand is slung underneath, again making maintenance a breeze. Recently had to have the rear tyre changed and due to complications, had to ride the bike to the garage and remove the rear wheel myself. Without the centre stand this couldn’t be done so I’m more than happy having it there. Removal of the seat reveals the battery and fuse box, making changes here a breeze too.
One definite down point to the Fazer is the lights. The front lights are absolutely rubbish! Many a time I’m told that one of lights are out and every time I have to explain that it’s supposed to be! To tell if the lights are working you will need a strong torch than seeing the end of the road with the stock lights so I highly recommend changing them at the first opportunity. Full beams are ok, but again, a Xenon bulb wouldn’t go amiss. I think it’s like this because in Japan, everywhere is lit. Lights aren’t really used to see where you’re going, more to announce your presence… well, this is my thought on it anyway.
Insurance can be very cheap. Because it’s a low group, TPFT with 1 year no claims saw me spending just over £300 for a year. That was last year so I’m looking forward to seeing how much it’ll be this year.
Colours vary. I’ve seen Red, Blue, Black and Purple! (This could have been a paint job however!) Mine is Gold, and I think it looks great. I get a few grimaces when I mention that but upon viewing the bike, the inquisitor generally changes their mind.
Overall, it’s a brilliant machine, does exactly what it’s supposed to and doesn’t complain about it. Just remember, don’t be fooled by its looks! Underneath that unpretty face is an engine that it raring to go and keep going until the last drop of fuel has been spent… and then it keeps going! |
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| Mazz in Burgess Hill, West Sussex on 17/06/2008 |
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