Yamaha FZ8 test

YAMAHA FZ8
Yamaha is expecting a lot from its new line of bikes to attack the roadster segment that saw Yam sell more than 250 000 Fazer 600s and FZ6s world wide since 1998.

The goal is to win over a large percentage of the public with versatile and fast motorcycles.


We begin with the FZ8 Fazer. Doted with a semi-cowling, you can ride for miles and miles without getting tired. Well placed between the FZ6 and FZ1, the FZ8 offers added power while remaining easy to handle and safe, thanks in large part to the 78 brake horsepower engine that offers first rate acceleration.




The naked version also has its share of upsides. With a livelier front end it offers its rider added fun. The chassis is a derivative of the FZ1 and it too is lively as well as precise, but it will be more of a handful than the FZ6 at slower speeds and at rest with its 211 kilograms of weight.



The FZ8 is ready to take on Kawasaki’s Z750. While the front end is an all new design, there are a few similarities to the FZ1, like the shape of the petrol tank and rear light. More aggressive and larger than aFZ6, the FZ8 should have what it takes to win over riders who find themselves limited by the 600 and who find the FZ1 too big and too radical.


The equipment package includes an inversed 43mm fork, which sadly isn’t adjustable and shows its limitations when pushed hard.

The FZ8 has outstanding brakes, thanks to the two 310mm floating discs, which offer a progressive and smooth stopping power.



The 779cc four-cylinder engine is based on the FZ1 platform and is also a descendent of the R1. Adapted for a roadster chassis, it has fine torque output in mid-revs and accelerates hard as you open the throttle, offering versatility that the most riders will appreciate.





The instruments, including a fuel gauge and rev counter on a white background, are easy to read.

With this new FZ8, Yamaha has gotten its foot in the door of a new segment. Ready to take on the Kawasaki Z750 in its own game, the FZ8 is a fine alternative choice. At less than €8000 for the Naked, the price is another argument working in its favour.