2014 Yamaha FZ-09

                                            2014 Yamaha FZ-09

The FZ-09, which replaces the FZ8 in Yamaha’s sport lineup, is a completely new model. In the tech presentation before handing over the keys, Yamaha described the new FZ as “a naked sportbike that combines an emotional performance character and fundamental value.” Emotional performance comes via its surprising Inline Triple, while the $7990 MSRP - $900 less than the bike it replaces – handles the value part. Both aspects make the FZ-09 one of the most intriguing models to debut this year.

Introducing the all new 2014 FZ-09, a naked sports roadster powered by an all new liquid-cooled, 850 cc in line 3 cylinder, fuel-injected engine. The FZ-09 has been developed around the concept of a "Synchronized Performance", that allows a rider to enjoy the feeling of complete control in typical everyday riding situations. In other words, the FZ-09 has been designed to respond to your every command.

Liquid-cooled 4-stroke, 850cc in-line 3-cylinder fuel-injected engine with a downdraft intake. The engine has been tuned to provide plenty of low to mid-range torque with strong yet linear throttle response.

Electronic fuel injection has been adopted to provide outstanding drivability. 12-hole injectors attached directly to the cylinder head deliver a highly pressurized spray of atomized fuel with droplets as small as a few microns. This enables high precision injection directed at the valve skirts that contributes to optimum fuel combustion resulting in outstanding drivability and performance.

A new 6-speed transmission has also been adopted to match the new engine. The transmission has optimized gear ratios that help to deliver engine torque efficiently. The result is a transmission that helps bring out more of the low- to mid-speed torque and excellent response characteristics.

The riding position is upright and in command, featuring higher bars and lower pegs than the FZ8 this bike replaces. The seat is touted as being long and flat, Overall, though, the riding position felt comfortable.

Newly designed, 10-spoke lightweight cast aluminum wheels are used, fitted with a 120/70 ZR17 front tire and 180/55/ ZR 17 rear tire. The tires have been designed with an optimally-tuned internal structure that contributes to good handling stability.

Front brakes consists of two floating 298mm discs with 4-pot opposed piston calipers. The newly designed calipers are radial mounted.

A newly designed lightweight, compact, full LCD instrument panel is adopted. The tachometer has a digital bar-type display with gear position indicator. The electric starter button is a new slide-type that incorporates the engine cut-off switch is an integrated button for a modern and high quality appearance.

The 2014 FZ-09 costs $7,990, inexpensive for a member of the class of naked bikes (the average price is $13,250). A 12-month factory warranty from Yamaha helps protect new buyers.