A couple months back I wrote an article about the Ducati Scrambler, singing its praises. I don’t take anything away from that article but I’d like to add an element of reality to the mix: price. The Yamaha FZ-07 is faster, more fuel efficient, and nearly HALF the price of the Ducati. And it’s even the same class of standard-but-kind-of-dual-sport bikes.
At $6990 for a brand new one, you won’t find a better value other than maybe a 2015 model FZ-09 for $7600 but those are a bit overpowered for the average rider. Even the pros all say the 09 felt like it was trying to kill them.
The FZ-07 has a vertical twin, 689cc “Crossplane Concept” motor that is extremely impressive in low and midrange power creation. From 0-5500 rpm it’s honestly not far off from the 899 Panigale or other larger two cylinder bikes. And the low and midrange power completely demolishes 4 cylinder bikes even as large as an FZ1. The fuel injection works like magic, starts right up, idles well, and gives the feeling of control and precision.
At 479 lbs it’s one of the lightest street bikes on the road, even 50lbs+ lighter than competing bikes like the SV650 and the Ninja 650 with similar power output (65hp, 45 lb ft) giving the FZ the edge in performance and responsiveness.
Although it doesn’t have fancy upside-down forks or fully adjustable suspension, the ride is predictable and controllable. The seating position and well-placed ergonomics make it a very comfortable bike to ride although you may want a windscreen if you’re going farther than about 50 miles in one go.
The brakes are on-par with the best of them with four piston calipers up front and a two piston unit in the rear with wave rotors all around. The styling and controls really make this bike feel like it’s a $10-$12k machine and certainly not a bargain buy.
Pretty much can’t beat the fun per dollar value on this bike.
DUUUUUDE. I want one. Great write up now I have to go sit on one at the dealer….
Yeah it’s a super duper sweet bike. They’re coming out with an adventure model soon but you could do all that yourself and prob save a bit. Amazing power for such a light bike, I loved it.
I heartily endorse everything said here.
I just rode this bike on a 75 mile loop through Weber, Echo, East and Immigration canyons and then back again for a 150 mile morning. What a sweet ride. Excellent low end torque to pull you out of those twisty climbing turns. Super positive breaks that didn’t fade once. Way lighter than a Harley riding colleague’s bike who was struggling stay on the road. Really a nice ride.
I have never ridden a bike in my life but I can’t get the look of this one out of my head. Honestly I think I might just get one.
Shawn – awesome. They’re a great value, amazing really. Reliability, performance, 2 seats, and fuel economy for a great price. Love these.