2010 Yamaha FZ8: official first picture

Yamaha has unveiled this first official picture of the new FZ8 middleweight naked – but nothing else.

There’s no information or pictures beyond this headlight shot – Yamaha UK wasn’t even aware of the picture’s release!

It is believed the FZ8 will replace Yamaha’s current FZ6 models as a sporty middleweight naked, leaving the XJ6, XJ6 Diversion and the new-for-2010 XJ6 Diversion F to cater for the novice and all-rounder markets.

It’s main rivals will be the BMW F800R, Honda Hornet 600, Triumph Street Triple R and the Aprilia Shiver 750.

The engine is believed to be unique to the FZ8, but draws on the design of Yamaha’s current supersport engines, and tuned to suit the naked bike application.

Little is known about the level of chassis equipment – expect mid-level componentry better than the basic XJ6 range, but not quite as high quality as the race-spec kit on the 2010 R6.

MCN is working on the story now – we’ll keep you up to date as more information on the bike breaks.

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