Yamaha FZ8

Yamaha’s original FZS600 Fazer and later models always represented value for money workhorses – the sort of bike you could commute and have fun on anytime, anywhere. But now the XJ6 and Diversion fills the cheap and cheerful slot left by the death of the FZ6 S2 and FZ6 Fazer. The replacement machine is the new FZ8 (and half-faired FZ8 Fazer). Along with its capacity increase (now 779cc), the FZ8 has gone up market – more performance biased – through the use of a cast ally frame and swingarm and a not so cheap price tag.
Although aimed squarely at mainland European motorcyclists, where the Kawasaki’s Z750 rules the naked bike sales table, it is a good machine in its own right. It isn’t as intimidating to ride as the monstrous FZ1 1000cc, which means anybody can jump straight on to ride away and have a good time. It deserves an overall rating of 4, but priced at £7920 leaves a big opening for cheaper competitors including Kawasaki’s Z750, Triumph Street Triple etc.

Specifications

Top speed	mph
1/4-mile acceleration	secs
Power	106bhp
Torque	60ftlb
Weight	211kg
Seat height	815mm
Fuel capacity	17 litres
Average fuel consumption	mpg
Tank range	miles
Insurance group	16

Engine size	779cc
Engine specification	Liquid-cooled, DOHC, 16v four-stroke in-line four. Six gears
Frame	Cast ally beam frame and swingarm
Front suspension adjustment	Non-adjustable
Rear suspension adjustment	Adjustable for preload only
Front brakes	310mm discs with 4-piston caliper
Rear brake	267mm disc with single-piston caliper
Front tyre size	120/70 x 17
Rear tyre size	180/55 x 17