YAMAHA FZ1 FAZER (2006 - 2015) Review

Year: 2006

Having owned Ducati's and Fireblades dropping onto a Fazer 1000 was a real treat for more comfort and pleasure. Now 75 having brought my bike 4 years ago its never let me down . Put some good miles in to her and now even with 90,000 miles on the clock I have no doubts when starting her up Ill be on my way with out a problem

Buying experience: Brough from a dealer

Version: fz1s

Year: 2008

Annual servicing cost: £200

a bikers bike, one of the last power machines 150bhp, 160 mph with no traction control or abs the only downside is fuel consumption, im doing about 35-40 mpg mine is low mileage 16000 at £4000 but can get some for £1500 with MOT just be aware of the after market alarms

Buying experience: private, rob irish bridgwater, crap, the guy lied about the type of bike, and never told me the tyre had a plug, he tried intimidation threats etc.

Version: Naked

Year: 2009

Annual servicing cost: £150

Excellent sports cum tourer bike GREAT fun to ride. Zero electronics not even ABS so you have to remember loads of things like what gear you are in! Fuel consumption not too heavy, bike is fairly light thro the corners yet planted on the motorway at speed.

Buying experience: I bought from Alf England in Coventry, perhaps the greatest dealer in the history of the (my) world!!!

Version: 3C3 (FZS10V)

Year: 2006

Annual servicing cost: £500

Great allarounder

Buying experience: Second hand, excellend condition, 5.5k USD.

Year: 2006

Best bike I ever had

Version: FZ1NA

Year: 2014

Quality build. Simplistic. Great looks. Reliable. Fast in the twisties.

Buying experience: Bought from High Wycombe Yamaha dealer in 2014. Part exchanged Aprillia Dorsodura (excellent bike too but 80 miles to tank range). Discounted. It’d been in showroom for 2 years. Bikes were shifting towards more electronics and I guess this and looks dated the bike. It met all my needs for what I wanted from a bike.

Version: Fz1n

Year: 2010

Annual servicing cost: £1

I had more than 50 motorcycles, 15+- sport bikes. I'm 187 cm. It's one of the beat bikes or even the beat bike I had. Relaxed position, lots of power, can ride in the city easily.

Year: 2007

Annual servicing cost: £100

This bike can do everything commute tour have fun. Just one thing that needs to be asked has the Rota stator been changed as the magnets come off. Yamaha say not a problem but have done a revised part. Easy to change u-tube. No other problems owned from new

Buying experience: Dealer from.new

Version: FZ1-N

Year: 2008

Annual servicing cost: £150

Crazy, fun ride! I was hesitant about replacing my 2003 R1 with a naked bike as I was always used to sportsbikes/clip on bars and wasn't sure the ergonomics of this bike would suit me. I needn't have worried. I'm riding this bike faster (and with more confidence and control) than my old R1, and it handled great.

Buying experience: Bought privately for £3780. My budget was £3500 but this one had low miles, lots of extras and was in the colour I was after (silver) and it was only a few miles from where I lived. Also, I couldn't find one locally anywhere, until I'd bought this one, then one came up for sale on Gumtree for £3500...but it was yellow!

Version: FZ1 S GT

Year: 2008

A very, very good all rounder platform. Never believe that old phrase, "Jack of all trades, master of none". The FZ1 is a fantastically versatile bike. Let's face it, unless you are some sort of extreme nit picking anorak or just a motorcycle magazine journalist the "faults" of this bike are pretty much not worth mentioning. My main reason for ending up buying the FZ1 is that I wanted a replacement for my ZX9R. I have owned several 9rs because I found them to be brilliant all rounders, but I have to say, the FZ1 is even better at that role. The legendary poor fuel mapping problem is there yes but we are talking about a slight and I mean slight lag/blip going from no throttle to on throttle sometimes. The listen to all the comments about it would leave you thinking it was some kind if huge dangerous thing. I've have way worse problems with snatchy carb bikes.The ride position is simply perfect, not only comfy but it inspires cornering confidence. Build quality is pretty tidy too, no cheap thin plastics like my 9r. I was almost put off with the tank size (only 18L) but theres a good 160 miles in there I reckon, if you're just riding "normally", rag it and of course you will notice it.I've got nothing but good things to say about the bike, really. Buy one, you will love it. Seriously.

Year: 2010

Annual servicing cost: £200

Great mix of power, fun, reliability, do it all

Buying experience: Bought privately - it’s a great story. Went to buy the exact bike c6 years ago but by the time I rang it had just been sold... had various bikes in the interim period. Sold my MT09 Tracer as we bought a house and wanted to replace with something cheaper. Could NOT believe it that my exact bike from 6 years previously was for sale! Had to have it, was meant to be. I recognised it straight away (gear indicator, comfort seat, Yoshi exhaust, side panels etc too many of the same parts and previously in Scotland).

Year: 2008

Best bike for comfort and reliability

Version: US version

Year: 2006

Overall I love the bike despite the rotor problem because she's an absolute blast to ride. It's very tamed for a liter bike and that might be good for some not so much for others but it can do a little bit everything and for that I love it.

Year: 2007

tried other new and used suzuki gsx .kawasaki z1000 none to me as good as the fazer

Year: 2007

Incredible bike. Never had any problems with it. Cheap to run, service and insure. Plenty of power to keep up with the 1000cc supersports. Only downsides are you get a numb bum on a long ride and the fueling is rather snappy with an aftermarket exhaust although this can be sorted with a DynoJet. Lovely upright wide touring bars but unfortunately the pegs aren't low enough/ seat high enough so always find getting cramped hips and knees.

Version: FZ1 N ABA

Year: 2010

Annual servicing cost: £200

Very impressed with the bike. It handles superbly when pressing on and yet is very well balanced at low speeds weaving in and out of traffic like a much smaller machine. Power delivery is smooth and progressive but real shove is all at the top end where it absolutely flies. Faster than my old Aprillia SL 1000 Falco. On the down side, torque is lacking in the mid range but the gearbox makes accessing the available power a pleasure. Fuel consumption is ferocious, I can get mid 20s mpg from a tank when enjoying myself but use the bike for pleasure so not an issue for me. Mine is a naked bought at 6 years old with 6k miles, full history for 4 grand. I've owned it for 2 years with no problems and have been riding for 25 years. Best bike I have owned, just shading the Aprillia for it's reliability and all round ability

Buying experience: Bought from an independent at 6 years old, 6k miles with fsh (6 stamps) for 4k. I had many bikes on the shopping list but this was a great deal for the money. No regrets

Year: 2012

Annual servicing cost: £70

Apart from being too high at the start (I'm 5ft 6" - I got it reshaped and can now reach the pedals) I love the bike and the way it steers, stops and goes. I can't find anything which I dislike, well done Yamaha.

Buying experience: I have an excellent dealer Dudley Motorcycles, West Midlands. They where very helpful and will go the extra mile to look after you.

Version: Fazer

Year: 2007

Annual servicing cost: £250

Excellent all rounder. Good handling, fast engine that just keeps giving. Great sports tourer.

Version: 2007 S2 ABS

Year: 2007

A great all round bike that's more sports than sports tourer, in today's terminology it would be called a super"naked", I guess. Tank range is a bit limited, MCN seem to just quote the manufacturers numbers and we all know they don't always tell the truth. Anywhere from 80-110 is normal for me and I don't care because it's 80-110 miles of happy riding.

Year: 2007

Annual servicing cost: £150

Overall it's a great package, for the money you can buy these for you are getting so much machine, I couldn't really pick out the best parts as it does everything so well and not anything badly, the only issue I have is the tank range, as a "tourer" I expected some range but it's pretty limited, at anywhere between 80-100 miles to a tank or whatever £15 buys you. Some people claim more but I have no idea how they achieve that, I'm not pushing a 150bhp 1000cc sports bike hard, I don't have that skill so a lot of the time I'm just using it to get around, within speed limits 30 to 70mph.

Buying experience: Private sale, 07 15k, abs £3300, was a good deal as everyone else wanted 3500.

Version: Faired

Year: 2007

Annual servicing cost: £350

Excellent all rounder that doesn't seem to have compromised too much in any one aspect. Bought this second-hand as a slightly bold purchase shortly after getting a licence via the DAS - and sometimes it does scare the c**p out of me...but I've never been either bored or overwhelmed. I've used this bike happily for regular commuting (into central London), motorway-trips and a bit of touring. For a 998cc bike it is compact, very nimble and has more power than I can conceivably ever need. I cannot recommend it highly enough to someone who wants a bike that does everything and does it well. One thing I haven't tried it out on is a race track, so I can't comment on top end performance. And dirt, obviously.

Buying experience: I bought this from a dealer who was very patient while I check every dot and cross on all the documents (I'm a lawyer, so can't help myself). The dealer also knew a winner (the bike) and a sucker (me) when he saw them, because he was not budging a penny from his £4k asking price...

Year: 2007

Great overall bike built for the real road. Lightning fast, decent comfort, stunning looks and great sound

Buying experience: Good deals on these bikes now since they have existed for a few years. A few mods and they are competitive with some of the latest streetfighters, but at a bargain price.

Version: FZ1-S (Non ABS)

Year: 2007

Annual servicing cost: £100

Superb bike - Watch out for Frame Weld issues - Mine has a tiny hairline crack on the right side frame weld (possibly was there when I bought it) , but all is fine so it can stay there, I am sure there are a lot of people riding about on these with hairline cracks and they don't know about it as I only found mine following reading the internet forums (after I bought it ....clever eh) . I have seen various responses to people from Yamaha with some changed as goodwill and some not, so it's luck of the draw I reckon......

Buying experience: Private - very good

Version: ABS

Year: 2011

Love this bike.The raw power the bike gives around 3000 revs cannot be beaten, like the sound a rocket ship makes taking off (probably) leaving my head rattling in my helmet and my stomach somewhere a mile behind me. Worst features have to be the hard seat, also the footrests which seem a bit high. Oh and the side stand is a pig to put down, can't find it behind the centre stand. Mechanically cannot fault.

Buying experience: Bought from a fantastic dealer,well pleased with the price.

Version: FZ1S Fazer

Year: 2011

I have done 27,000 miles on my FZ1S. Going to the Alps and Blackforest repeatedly, Portugal, Norway, Romania and everywhere inbetween. It's a fast, powerful sportstourer (more sports focused) and it's done it pretty well. It's easy to service [even the valve clearances are pretty straightforward] and has never, ever missed a beat. Credit where it is due, it is well made and the handles bloody well. Only flies in the ointment for me - crap fuel economy [probably due to emissions regs] could be okay if the tank had a decent 220mile+ range. A bit vibey at certain speeds. Will replace all of the chassis bearings soon in a preventative measure.

Buying experience: Brought from dealer nearly new. Straight forward enough - someone else took the hit on initial depreciation.

Year: 2006

great bike I'm in love

After 55 years of riding all sorts I came across two very good deals on 2 FZ1s. Simply fantastic, I've read all the negatives and to me they amount to naught. Fast, agile, low speed maneuverability, good fuel mileage, and the looks! mine are Gen1 so they are carved with the tubular frame. I simply cannot say enough about these machines.

We are all getting older, a lot of us still want that buzz sports bikes provide but are getting aches and pains related to the sports bike crouched riding position - that can be ignored no longer! Need a solution to this problem? - I present to you the FZ1! This bike has a comfortable riding position to save your back and looks to rival or better any other naked/muscle bike out there. The quality of the parts and paint are blatantly top knotch (like most modern Yamahas I have found). But the biggest cherry on this good looking, usable cake - is the masses of available power at you command. The torque is fat and wide over the rev range, giving a seemingly never relenting build in power from very low down the rev band. This power could be intimidating to newer or less experienced riders, maybe even those returning from a lay off, If that is the case, the FZ8 would be the perfect bike for you (read my review on it). But we are talking about a bike for those coming from top end sports machines, who want to minimise the compromise - this is definately the best bike for you!

My approach to this test ride was from the point of view of wanting to try something a little lighter than my Hayabusa (for urban purposes) and also check out the quoted fuelling glitches that reviewers seem to dislike. This 2011 FZ1N was fine, especially from closed to small throttle openings, which is where most criticism had been quoted. No problems at all for me and also the low rpm torque characteristics also pulled strongly. It is lighter and more nimble in the urban context and filtering in tight spaces was better than the Busa. It didn't quite have the induction ROAR of the Busa but otherwise the instantaneous throttle response was impressive. Clutch (non slipper) action was very smooth & light and the brakes flawless. I liked the looks(I preferred the black) of the N far more than the S. One thing I did not like was the position of the footpegs. They dug into the back of my calves at standstill in the traffic forcing me to sit far forward. Rearset's a must for me on this bike... The engine was very impressive indeed. I'd say if you want a naked this is near if not at the top of the heap. The 6 speed GB was not as smooth as the Busa, but possibly due to newness and also there is no gear indicator, which is a bit of a let down by Yamaha. Build quality was exemplary and 4-1 exhaust sounded very good if a slightly on the quiet & cultured side. An Akra 4-1 system would fix that! This bike is nimble, very likeable, great looking & very powerful as well. On the road you would not notice the 0.5-1 sec giveaway to the mighty Busa in the 1/4 and 0-100kph dash. In the 250kph+ region, of course the Busa is pure Serenity without equal that I can see. With the FZ1, you gain lightness, but you also gain wind buffeting. You also LOSE around 45kg for the urban blast, so the FZ1 is fantastic, but away from the city traffic, the Busa Supremacy is still right up there.

Thanks motor oyunları

I have owned mine for 18 months and done 16,000 miles in all weathers. This is the only bike i have ridden i cannot fault every morning i look forward to riding 10 miles to work and releasing the animal down the road. It can be all things easy effortless ridng over taking those tin boxes in 6th calm and collected or tearing your arms out of joint with mass acceleration the choice is yours. You can sit on motorways amply protected at very high speeds only the fuel consumption and capacity being a little dissapointing however more than required. You can flick the bike through bends on smaller roads only the large rear tyre slowing u a little. I have ridden through snow and even floods over 1 mile distance and 2-3 ft deep where cars have been written off without so much as a cough from the r1 motor. The chain and sprocket is original and only adjusted when tyre changes occur (every 5,000 mile on the rear)Thanks to a scotoiler. What more can i say other than thankyou yamaha

I wanted a bike that could be be ridden like a tourer when I needed it and a sportsbike when I wanted it. It needed to accommodate a pillion in comfort and with two 6ft people on board, it needed enough grunt and top-end to be fun. I chose a new FZ1 Fazer and I'm not disappointed. It's a bit a of a 'Q' bike - looks staid but it's surprisingly fast. Having owned a variety of sportsbikes, what I particularly like about the FZ1 is that it makes it easy - I never feel tired or cramped after a long ride. Gripes? The standard screen creates too much turbulence but this is sorted with the excellent MRA Vario screen. For a more cosseting ride, I've replaced the standard seats (which can become uncomfortable on longer rides) with Sargent Seats. The sides of the tank can get marked if, like me, you tend to grip the tank with your knees under heavy braking, so I fitted some TechSpec Gripster tank pads (they really suit the bike, fitting is simple and they look much better that StompGrip pads). My remaining compliaint, which I'll address one day is that I have the dark blue model with gold wheels and it needs livening-up. I'm currently looking for suitable 'speed-block' decals but I guess I'll be visitng Dream Machine or Race Paint UK for something unique...

Had this bike '08 FZ1-S for 6 months and recently bought an Akrapovic slip on... new bike! It now has loads of midrange torque and is much more rideable - for touring or sports riding. The original pipe is a heavy piece of overly restrictive junk? Why did Yamaha put it there?????? Tony

I bought the fazer 2 years ago and have found it good.I do not do soft panniers but have put a top-box on E52 and have a monster bag for the pillion seat for touring-ish rides.I took it to germany hanover and found the ride great no back aches,or others things wrong.Fuel is rubbish 120 miles on average on tap would of been better with 160 mpg,throttle response is good on over 6-7000 rev's but under that and the bike is a bit slowish then wham your into 3 figure speeds.So low down grunt or dyno to smooth the power or response more will be needed.Would I buy another? yes ! it washes up well I apply GT85 to the back wheel to keep it clean and use ACF50 for the suspension spring.

Fantastic Bike.Got the bike new in January.A credit to Yamaha, spot on!Went to France in March no problem loaded and 2up.Just rode solo from Plymouth to Split Croatia, non stop 1,500miles in 30 hours.You could knock four hours off for heavy rain and spray that forced me to stop in Austria.Toured Bosnia,Mostar valley, Sarajevo etc, AWSOME!!If you like this bike and are thinking of owning it, say no more.

finally gave up sportsbikes - needed more comfort - this yamaha is just so much fun - taken the aftermarket screen off as it looks much better without - will use it for the annual tour though. Only negative is the seat - numb bum after 1/2 an hour. May have it modded with memory foam or gel insert or even buy a corbin replacement.

What can I say? I graduated from a FZS600 Fazer after spending a week dancing on the gear lever in Germany. The bike is unbelieveable value for money. The finish is good and a regular rinse after winter riding keeps the worst of the corrosion at bay. The handle bars are wide, perfectly placed and look really good. It handles unbelievably well for something that is a "sports tourer". I was chasing a ZX6r in France in May on a twisty road with 90mph bends (and pegs scraping) and it barely broke a sweat. The only thing that might have helped would have been a stickier front but the PR2 did fine. The brakes are excellent, mine has ABS but I rarely need to use it. The seat isn’t very comfy for over 90mins but an airhawk seat has seen to that, a scottoiler has taken care of the chain which does take a thrashing with that engine. The side stand is hard to set down with racing boots on but I just kick the base of it down. I have had no problems with mine. I run a zumo and a EXO2 heated vest of the batter y with no issues. Handguards from ascerbis are the only other mods I could think of. Important but don’t panic!!!!!! The welding on the frame on the sides above the clutch is a not perfect. I dropped mine(2007) at 2mph and it cracked the weld. Yamaha replaced it on goodwill warranty but the replacement frame is a revised item so newer models should have no issues. One last thing. This is a great bike but it is not a learner bike or something for people returning to biking. If you F*** up or are hamfisted it will spit you off. If you have bought one and it intimidates you do some advanced training or bikesafe. Dont blame the bike. The bike is only as good as the rider and will do what you want if you ask nicely.

What can I say? I graduated from a FZS600 Fazer after spending a week dancing on the gear lever in Germany. The bike is unbelieveable value for money. The finish is good and a regular rinse after winter riding keeps the worst of the corrosion at bay. The handle bars are wide, perfectly placed and look really good. It handles unbelievably well for something that is a "sports tourer". I was chasing a ZX6r in France in May on a twisty road with 90mph bends (and pegs scraping) and it barely broke a sweat. The only thing that might have helped would have been a stickier front but the PR2 did fine. The brakes are excellent, mine has ABS but I rarely need to use it. The seat isn’t very comfy for over 90mins but an airhawk seat has seen to that, a scottoiler has taken care of the chain which does take a thrashing with that engine. The side stand is hard to set down with racing boots on but I just kick the base of it down. I have had no problems with mine. I run a zumo and a EXO2 heated vest of the batter y with no issues. Handguards from ascerbis are the only other mods I could think of. Important but don’t panic!!!!!! The welding on the frame on the sides above the clutch is a not perfect. I dropped mine(2007) at 2mph and it cracked the weld. Yamaha replaced it on goodwill warranty but the replacement frame is a revised item so newer models should have no issues. One last thing. This is a great bike but it is not a learner bike or something for people returning to biking. If you F*** up or are hamfisted it will spit you off. If you have bought one and it intimidates you do some advanced training or bikesafe. Dont blame the bike. The bike is only as good as the rider and will do what you want if you ask nicely.

I took a brand-new FZ1 Fazer (faired version) out for a test ride and it rained. Let me tell you - all that power in the wet is terrifying. Didn't enjoy it much and took it back. Decided to get an FZ6 instead. But... I borrowed an '07 naked FZ1 for a day last week and had a real ball of a time. I mean, bloody hell - the power!!?!?! There's been a lot of complaining about the fuelling being jerky but you just need to keep a few revs going and use the clutch and it's smooth as you like. But then I'm used to Yamaha fuel injection so maybe it wasn't such an issue for me. You do need to ride it though. I mean, it's clutch is a bit heavy, the throttle is stiff and the gear change is clunky but keep all the actions positive and it's a joy to ride. Town riding is amazingly fluid as there's all that power at the back wheel and the wide bars and centralised weight make slow-speed maneuvering really easy. Actually, I find that where on my FZ6 I have to plan, change down and rev to exploit a gap on the FZ1 you just open the throttle and -BAM!- you are where you want to be. It is a bit like a pit bull terrier though. If you show it who is boss while treating it with appropriate respect then it will behave as you want. However, if you aren't 100% in control it won't flatter you, and if you dick about it will bite back in a most angry way. So, would I own one? Yeah, maybe in a couple of years, but I recon I'll stick to a 600cc for a while yet. And the fuel economy is shameful. Yamaha, how on earth can you justify such appalling MPG rates? Must do better, really.

Absolutely brilliant bike.I was delayed initially because of the comments by the "experts" about the snatching but I never experienced it.The rear pegs are a bit high for the pillion.

I love my fz1, it's fast, torquey and flick-able.....even if it does seem to do 100 miles to reserve around town (if im lucky).... I had a mysterious problem with it juddering and stalling at 1500-4000 rpm, big pull aways were the only cure for not stalling infront of oncoming traffic, after much investigation by various larger dealers coming up with ludicrious conclusions, CARBONTEC in Kenley surrey went to town on it, and i mean they did a bang up job, fine tooth comb jobby......after 4 new coils were fitted and the problem is now sorted and i love it all over again! Those guys took proper care of a customer and after 16,000 miles in 2 years im looking at chopping it in for a new one, thought about a GS or a tourer but after trying them i realised the FZ1 may be an aging design but if you want a big bike that can do everything from touring to commuting to just blasting down A roads, theres nothing quite like 132bhp at the wheel......oh and the Yamaha touring screen did nothing for me as a 6 footer, the Givi touring screen is the way to go.....

I've had my 07 FZ1s for a few months now and reading the FZ1OA forums, I decided to remove both cats from the exhaust, it revs easier has a boost in the revs about 4500rpm where there is usualy a dip for emissions tests and on my first tank full of fuel hasnt gone onto reserve yet at 120 miles, it usualy goes on about 95-105, so thats a bonus :) Very nice bike,loads of pull in top gear, I rode my mates 1200N tweaked Bandit, mine felt a lot more powerfull, I was expecting more from the bandit.

LOVE MY FAZER, GOOD IN TOWN,GOOD FOR TOURING,AND GOOD ON THE BACK ROADS,PLUS MY LASS SAYS ITS GOOD FOR THE PILLION,AND STILL LOOKS COOL WITH HARD GIVI LUGGAGE,ITS QUIK TOO!!!

The 2008 Fazer FZ1-S is a real world bike with amazing power, comfort and rideability. Even with hard luggage fitted it can still keep up with sports bikes and can even outpace some lesser so-called superbikes. The almost upright riding position puts only minimal weight on wrists and the tank range of about 160 miles is just about right when it comes to needing a break. Fuelling is spot on (all sorted from the 2006 models) and the brakes have feel and bite as befits a 150bhp missile. This bike is awesome!!!

Hi, I purchased mine after I ditched my beloved CB1300, so the Yam has had to win me over; I wanted a change and I am glad to say I like it. The FZ1 Fazer is a great bike - a sports bike with flat bars in the best way to think of it, not an all-rounder that has been made sporty. This means you get a great chassis, very responive engine and masses of usable power. You immediately know this thing has the R1 engine at it heart and it really does define the bike - just push the starter button and it snarls in to life. I am used to a plush ride with the Honda - it has taken 1000 miles for the bikle to be completely run - in and in that time it has turned from a jerky tough thing in to s sweet and eztremely lively performer. Some minor snatched still occur low down, but it is now negligible. I have just come back from a 1600 mile solo your around Scotland and I have to say that this is perfect for these beautiful roads: 45mpg average and some highly illegal speeds! It really comes in to its when using it's awesome midrange - or you can just go for the throat and rev it out if you can find a long enough road. About to go two up touring to France, so I will report back on this in August. Yet to see how it fares over winter. So far, so good: Great fun!

LOOKS GREAT , it can pull my fat arse!! picks up well on 6000+ rpm....good brakes feels agile for a 200 kilo bike. 2 THUMBS UP!!!

Traded in a GSXR 1000K4 for a Silver FZ1, and I'm so pleased I did. Fantastic engine,(although I'm still running it in),superb comfort,the thing is so easy to ride. My bike was sold as a pre registered 2006 machine,but it's on a 57 plate,which is a little confusing as I didn't think you could display a number plate making the vehicle appear newer than it actually is. The point I'm trying to make is about the fuelling, which is spot on, with not a hint of snatchiness(unlike my Gixxer, which was horrible and snatchy at low revs) The ride is superb, finish is excellent, clocks comprehensive and easy to read...and the best bit, it only cost 5k. SUPERB.

I rode an FZ6-S for a few years, and apart from the lack of midrange, was very pleased with it. Since then I have upgraded to the FZ1-S and am generally very pleased with it. The engine pulls very well indeed, and has a great note to it. It feel a bit of aposer when riding through town in the evening, and poeple look round to see the R1 coming. My model is a 2008. I was disappointed to see that Yamaha changed the paint schemes for the '08 to a silver engine and silver wheels. I personally thought the '07 with the black frame, engine and wheels looked great. Niggles? It's a bit viby. The right hand gets the worst of it when riding on motorways. The economy isn't great with not much more than 120/130 miles to a tank. The seat isn't bad, but could be better. There is precious little space under the rear seat, and zero space under the riders seat. The are not bungy hooks apart from the pillions foot rests. The screen doesn't offer the best in wind protection. Mine came shipped with Michelin Pilot Roads (not 2's). The front occasionally feels a little twitchy, but the 190 rear sticks like glue. This twitciness can knock your confidence. Maybe it needs something a little stickier. Apart from these minor niggles (the vibyness iritates me the most) I think it is a great bike, bordering on excellent. Get yourself a test ride for the proof.

There are a number of issues with these bikes that a potential buyer should understand: 1. It'll do 41 mpg .. when hell freezes over. Use the box properly and you'll travel (on average) 100 miles until the fuel trip activates. With a 3/4 gallon reserve, you're looking at 125 miles (about 33 mpg if my maths is up to scratch). Not good when you consider that the R1 is easily capable of 41 mpg. 2. Ground clearance is poor because the footpegs are set too low. Even modest lean angles will have them touching down. Experienced riders used to supersports bikes WILL expect more cornering ability, as well as a better controlled shock (which doesn't help in this area). Isn't agility exactly what these bikes are supposed to be about? 3. There IS a difference between the fuelling of the 06 and 07 bikes. I test rode them back to back to fathom this. I can't imagine why this is the case but it's enough to warrant stumping up the extra cash. Alternatively, fitting a PC and getting some dyno time works a treat. I bought an 06 pre-reg and did this, saving about £500 after parts and labour. This sounds a bit harsh about a so-called "budget" bike, but speaking from experience, the 2004 Tuono was a superior machine for similar money - better suspension, better torque and better value. Yamaha should have done more. But I still enjoy the FZ-1 because such niggles give it character; a certain je ne c'est-quoi which is normally reserved for Aprilias and Dukes.

a truly fantastic bike, after nearly two years I cannot fault it. IMO Yamaha got it spot on with this bike as a sporty alrounder.

Chopped in My Bandit 12 for this BEAST(FZ 1N)! This bike has it all ,Great Engine coupled to a stiff chassis and first class braking.As well as these attributes it looks positively fabulous.Binned the rocket launcher for a G+G can and chucked on a better seat and cowl.Awesome!!Youjust need Mike Tysons neck to go over 120 !!

Chopped in My Bandit 12 for this BEAST(FZ 1N)! This bike has it all ,Great Engine coupled to a stiff chassis and first class braking.As well as these attributes it looks positively fabulous.Binned the rocket launcher for a G+G can andchucked on a better seat and cowl.Awesome!!Youjust need Mike Tysons neck to go over 120 !!

Just traded up from a FZS6, best thing I did. What an awesome bike the FZS1 is. I LOVE IT.

Picked my bike up 3 days ago and i'm still getting used to it (only passed 8 days ago!), it's everything you could ever want in a bike so far as i can tell, i considered a sensible smaller bike but figured i would grow out of it and a bigger bike ridden slower for now would make more sense, that notion lasted about 5 miles until i discovered the feeling of my nuts disappearing inside my body with the brutal acceleration. I now see why most of the reviews say "watch your license", it's silky smooth and loves motorway cruising, then into London it cuts in and out like the 600 i was taught on. I can't recommend this bike highly enough, but then again after 8 days what do i know!!??

My new FZ1N bought in April 07 has a superb engine and not a single glitsch or stutter. Taking a mini-roundabout in 2nd gear, in wet traffic, is fine. There's no lurch and there is no need to think about any bolt-ons to cure last year's problem. Just buy a current model. Then you would see why people describe this engine is near perfect, holding onto 3rd gear up the rev range is sublime. I love the handlebars, great width and comfy position. Maintaining 90mph is hard work and shortlived. Good job tank range is only 110-120 miles but I haven't tried a really slow ride yet. The standard Michelin Pilot tyres are good and, once the rear shock is softened a notch, the only limitation with the handling is me, not the bike. One real problem for a motorcyclist is that naked bikes genuinely deny you the chance to ride very fast for a long distance. To cruise at 110mph just isn't on. Most small screens look naff and one may as well have started on a different bike. I am thankful the bad press probably deflated the price of this bike; I love.

Owned my Fz1n for 12 months, fueling glitch i cured that with an Ivans fuel sensor, it puts fuel into the bores when you come off the throttle, so when you open the throttle there is no sudden kick to upset the bike mid corner. I paid £150 for this item and is realy easy to fit. I put a one tooth bigger sprocket on the back about £30. the standard tyres were replaced by Pirelli dragon corsas, then a pair of Bridgestone 015, I put a 180 on the back to quicken the steering, this has made the handling much better, R & G crash bungs were fitted about £50, about a week after i got the bike i pulled up at a junction and when i set off i got the top of my boot caught on the right hero blob, so they were taken off. A tail tidy was fitted, a Piug screen was fitted which gives a lot of wind protection and looks brilliant. Then i fitted a moto GP style Micron, K & N air filter and Dynojet Power Commender, the power commander was set up at Jordans bikes of Leeds, it now has 147 bhp at the back wheel and max torque = 71.55. the fueling is also much better. to make it more comfortable i fitted a sargent seat. The only thing i need now is a Hagon or Nitron rear shocker because the standard shocker isn`t very good with an uneven road surface but is very stable on a smooth road. apart from the shocker i think this is an absolute stonker of a bike like everybody sez it does everything. after owning 8 sports bikes this is a very comfy fast bike, I love it. And i wont be buying another sports bike this one is too much fun.

well.... have lived with the fz 1 for a month now....2000 miles so far....i hardly notice the fuel snatch anymore....i dont find the bike as good as i thought it would be....hard seat and the leg position not the best for comfort,knees too high up.......as the bike is run in....the fuel economy not as good when riding hard 100 miles to reserve......paintwork showing signs of being thin too.....has rubbed through to primer in places after 600 miles......no good for pillion for long distance......mabe i expect too much ,but £7500 you want it right....good for looks and a day out fun bike....sadly i wont be keeping this bike for long.....miss my honda cbf 1000 for the money an overall better bike.....be it a little boring.....

I have an 07 Fazer in Teal Tech and I absolutely love it. I was looking for a bike that can do it all, i.e. all year round inner city commute, weekend blasts, touring and trackdays. It handles everything brilliantly. I particularly like the riding position as I spend at least two our in the saddle every day. It handled great during a track day on Brands Hatch this spring and it gave me a lot of confidence as I now it can handle everything I throw at it, which is perhaps not a lot but it is much better than I will ever be. My main problem with it is the fuel economy, I hit the reserve at 100 miles. So bottom line, exciting and practical at the same time.

Got a 07 plate FZ1, had it for 2500 miles now (3 months) Awesome is the only word for it. Use it everyday and will do all year. I've always had naked bikes, this is the best one so far, only two minor points: the tyres won't last long, too much grunt and the love the standard noise. Fuel economy is 29 mpg at best, don't Yamaha say 41mpg??? - Bothered!

i have a 2007 fz1 s.....and im onthe fence onweather a power commander is needed unlike my cbf 1000 i find throttle response snatchy to say the least....mabe its something you grow to live with.....only had the bike 2 days......i will give it a chance and see how i get on with it

test test test

Picked mine up in September from Taz, a U.S import. Binned the silly side reflectors and suffer the over-sized indicators but for £1500 less than UK book price, who cares! Been accross Europe on it and it handles very well, is comfy and I get 130 to an 18litre tank. Turns in a bit slowly compared to R1 but probably due to 190 section rear tyre. This bike is radically stylish compared to the old model, is a great do anything bike but sadly, like most bikes, is not perfect. It is an upright, comfy R1. Make no mistake, that engine is ballistic!! Out of 40 bikes owned so far, this is definatly in the top 3. Try one. Strengths: The engine, frame, chassis and yes, the finish. Even better than the big Hondas. Everyone loves the looks and the fat can does grow on you. Love the gold forks which hold excellent brakes. If you want a mad all-round and comfy bike then this is the one. Weaknesses: It should have a gold handle bar to match the forks. Poor fuel consumption at higher speeds. Needs a belly pan to hide lower pipe work, and yes, there is a poor fuelling problem especially if you shut off at speed and roll on again. Try it on a motorway and you'll see what I mean. Anyone know of a cure other than a Power Commander? It's not that bad though and once you're used to it you barely notice it until it catches you out again in the future!

Handles superbly, even two up doesn't seem to faze it. Loves the lean angles right to the edge of the Dunlop D221's which give loads of grip and feedback. Loads of torque makes it bike for the wheelie fan. Paintwork seems a bit thin on seat panels as mine has worn through where girlfriends boot has been rubbing (after only 300 miles) Other than that, Love it! Strengths: Great handling and power delivery. Dunlop D221's fitted as standard are superb. Looks great too. Weaknesses: Fuel injection makes for snatchy ride unless your slick with gear changes. Change of exhaust and power commander sorts it out although Yamaha should have this right from the start Gel battery failed after two weeks!

Swapped 6 month old Sprint ST for Fazer due to too many silly problems and bad warranty department. I was looking for a bike with similar charicteristics as the Sprint without the silly problems. What I have got with the Fazer is a more versatile bike with a better riding position that is so easy to ride it is pure pleasure. It goes round corners easier and seems much lighter as if you are riding a 600. Strengths: Engine, looks, build quality, great handling. Weaknesses: Not found any yet.

Bought the FZ1 in August 06 swapping my RSVR for it. I commute 50 miles a day and wanted something a bit more practical with the ability to scratch around on the weekends. The bike has lived up to expectations in all but one respect. Throttle response when caning the bike around the lanes is fractionally short of scary. When setting up for corners the hesitation and then abrupt fueling is unsettling for machine and rider alike. If Yamaha aren't going to respond then the Power Commander bekons. Strengths: Flexible engine, gentle in traffic and exilirating on the lanes. Clear cockpit and comfortable riding position. Weaknesses: Throttle response at high revs.

Got to be the the best riding position i have come across in 20 years in the saddle.Loads of top end rush and sports bike feel. Everything i wanted out of a bike is there track day bike or sport touring city commuting its got the lot. Like the looks its a winner in my book. Strengths: Got to be the comfort and how versatile the bike is a top class all rounder. Weaknesses: Slightly snatchy at low revs and a lack of underseat space.

Looks stunning - in black,handles very well,goes and stops well. Strengths: Looks, power and handling. Weaknesses: Gearbox is a bit of a pain with problem changing from 1st to 2nd gear and hitting false neutral.

This is a wild bike even when pushed it handels lovely. There it only one down fall that I could find thats the flat spot on the throttle. This can be cured and is worth doing to make this bike a superb bike. Strengths: Handling. Weaknesses: Flat spot.

Bought this bike after riding it as a demo in June. Tried a Triumph Sprint ST at the same time but it was nowhere near as good fun. I was looking for something to replace my GSXR750K5 because it was killing my wrists. I had journalist fuelled preconceptions about the iffy fuelling and harsh suspension but they were soon dismissed after the test ride!! Really enjoy riding this bike, it does need a pipe and powercommander to clean up the fuelling and improve power/response. Fantasic handling, roadholding and breaking, 120 mile comfort. Strengths: Power above 6000 rpm Excellent handling Braking Comfort Looks Tuneability (is that a word?) Excellent Dealer (Alf England). Weaknesses: Power below 6000 rpm Slightly jerky throttle response at higher revs Slightly hard seat (although it is good for 130 miles!!).

Why can't they fit the R1 engine without tampering with anything? Anyway coming from a 93 R1 maybe I was expecting the same performance. I did test ride before I bought it and was happy,it's a good bike and looks meaner with a bellypan. Maybe a powercommander to rectify fuelling at low RPM, it's a rocketship after 6000 rpm though! Strengths: Performance after 6000rpm. Looks. Handling. Dealer support. Weaknesses: Annoying humming/vibration noise from small panel in front of speedo panel at 4000 rpm.

Traded in Ducati for the Yamaha looking for more acomplished all rounder. Certainly not disapointed gets as many looks as the Ducati with excellent usability. The fueling I dont find a problem at present and I know there is a fix out there if required. The attention to detail is ten times better than previous Yamahas but why oh why different levers with adjuster only on the brake. Looks cheap and annoys me every time I use the bike.  Strengths: Looks, power and usability.  Weaknesses: The footpegs I find awkward position lack of storage space under seat.

I SWAPPED MY SPRINT ST FOR MY FAZER. WHAT A GOOD MOVE. PERFORMANCE, LOOKS, BUILD QUALITY, ALL EXCELLENT. I KNOW WHAT YOU WANT TO KNOW....WHAT ABOUT THE FUELLING. TO SAY THAT THERE IS NOTHING WOULD NOT BE QUITE RIGHT, BUT THE VERY SLIGHTEST HESITATION AFTER A GEAR CHANGE IS SO SLIGHT THAT IT IS HARDLY WORTH A MENTION. MY OTHER BIKE IS A 2005 R1. NOW THAT GIVES ME A POSSIBLE PROBLEM. I JUST HOPE THAT THE FAZER DOERS NOT SPOIL ME FOR THE R1 AS THE R1 SPOILED ME FOR THE SPRINT. THE FAZER IS A GREAT BIKE, IT PUTS A SMILE ON MY FACE AND THAT IS WHAT IT IS ALL ABOUT EH? Strengths: IT IS A SPORTS BIKE IN A COMFY, PURPOSE DESIGNED CHASSIS. GREAT LOOKS. TOP BUILD QUALITY.  Weaknesses:  WHY NOT PUT GLOVE BOXES IN THE SIDE FAIRINGS, THERE IS PLENTY OF SPACE.

Been riding 2 years and after some happy times with a 2002 CBR600F and a trip to Portugal I decided that a change was needed. CBR a great bike, especially as a novice but was two painful after 60 miles or so on the old wrists and shoulders. Didn't want to compromise performance for a more comfortable bike and at the ripe age of 25 didn't want a Pan or FJR. The fazer seemed to have the perfect balance of comfort, performance and all round useability. The bike looks great and the handling and engine are fantastic. Rode a blackbird as first choice but fazer blew it away. It's really light and so comfortable. If I was handed a blank cheque for any bike, I would buy exactly the same bike again. Its great fun, happy to tour in comfort, will commute and can easily accomadate two up riding comfortably (as commented by numerous passengers). Must mention how genuine the official Yamaha dealers were (K2, Stoke on Trent). Overall verdict: a cracking bike. Strengths: Looks, handling, colour (larva red), useability, engine is really responsive and grunty, brakes are fantastic, comfort, clocks, stock exhaust note, dealer service (K2, Stoke).  Weaknesses: Fueling is jerky but not as bad as the press make it out to be. Going from a sportsbike and mates riding the fazer who ride sportsbikes they think there isn't a fueling glitch but it is noticable. Still, would go out and buy the same bike again tomorrow so obviously isn't that serious. There is an annoying buzz from the air defuser between the clocks and the screen around 5k (sorted with an ear plug - clean obviously!)but other than that its great.

Yep, good bike. I am in the running in mode so can't wind her out just yet, but going on how the motor is behaving up to & approaching 6 grand then there is sure to be more fun to discover after 6G's. Handling is very good, and of course can be fine tuned further. You have to tap the gear lever a little to use all the engine has, but am starting to enjoy that aspect again, even coming from a bike that was all tourqe and no rev's, to this yoke which needs rev's and gear's to really get your rocks off. But then again, for most everyday riding you wouldn't really need to do any Flattley impersionations. Strengths: Handling, bars, seats, ease of use, can't comment on top end rush yet but I know it's there. Weaknesses: The toolkit elastic band thingy is a f__king nusiance, that's it. E.O.D pick the right tool for your job and there shouldn't be a lot to write here. Would still like another 80bhp + 70 old of torque ;-).

The FZ1S is a good bike but I can't go so far as to say its a great bike. Its a good looking, sporty bike which is also more than capable around town in part, due to its split in the rev range. Below 7000 rpm, its a friendly, easy ride due to the gentle power delivery. Over 7000 rpm and its a rocket ship pulling hard to its 12000 rpm redline whilst remaining stable on the road. One task the bike isn't up for unless you spend a fortune on hard luggage is touring. I have found it impossible to fit my Oxford Sports panniers and tail pack at the same time. I've also had to get a shorter tank bag as my more normal sized Oxford Tank bag made it impossible to move around on the bike when cornering. Strengths: Riding Position. - Great handling - Looks - Strong, flexible engine - Pillion seat. The Missus loves it. Much better than the Sprint ST in our opinion. Weaknesses: Poor fuelling. Try rolling on from a constant or closed throttle at about 5-6000 rpm. The jerky response is out of proportion to the throttle input. - negligible under seat storage especially if you fit an alarm there. - Its poorly designed for fitting soft luggage especially panniers. - The Exup valve is part of the end can so if you want to keep the valve, you have to keep the can. - Poor fuelling. It really annoys me so its worth mentioning twice.

Still running it in, but am absolutely delighted. Don't know what the magazine reviews are on about with the fuelling as it's excellent! Glad I took the dealers offer of a test ride rather than beleiving the press. Handling a delight, motor feels strong, looking forward to being able to use all of it.... Pillion accommodation has received full and enthusiastic approval too! Have got the full fairing - looks great and fits really well. Strengths: Handling, comfort, engine, looks. Weaknesses: .....?

If your thinking of buying one of these, don't believe what you've read in the bike press, get down to your dealer and get a test ride. Fuelling issue - what fuelling issue? it's very responsive, but it's not a fraction of the issue some reviews have made it out to be. Strengths: Fantastic handling, Jekyl & Hyde motor, comfy, and it looks fantastic, yes even that muffler. Weaknesses: Slightly hard seat, passenger grab rails a little too far forward.