Yamaha FZ1 1000 FAZER 2009 — Specifications

Who still remembers the original FZS 1000 Fazer, that muscular tourer that won over fans of versatile big-bore bikes in the early 2000s? Yamaha decided to have another go in 2006 with the Yamaha FZ1 1000 Fazer, a completely redesigned machine that unashamedly borrows the inline-four from the 2004-2005 R1. The result is a semi-faired roadster capable of putting out 150 horsepower at 11,000 rpm and 105.9 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm. Enough to set the record straight against the Suzuki Bandit 1250 and other Kawasaki Z1000 models of the era, which seem almost tame by comparison. Fuel injection replaces the carburetor bank of the previous generation, a necessary evolution that delivers more precise throttle response and better fuel economy. With its 998 cc, 11.5:1 compression ratio, and five valves per cylinder, the engine exudes restrained sportiness.

The chassis follows the same upward trajectory. The die-cast aluminum frame takes the architecture introduced on the FZ6, but in considerably more generous proportions. Inverted fork, reinforced swingarm, dual 320 mm front discs clamped by four-piston calipers, and a 245 mm rear disc. The wheels appear to come straight from the R1, and the 120/70-17 and 190/50-17 tire sizes confirm the machine's sporting ambitions. At 220 kg wet with an 18-liter tank, the Yamaha FZ1 1000 Fazer stays within segment norms without claiming the lightness of a naked roadster. The 815 mm seat height will suit average-sized riders, but shorter ones will have to deal with limited ground reach.

On the road, this 2009 Fazer positions itself as the ideal companion for the rider who wants to do everything with a single motorcycle. Back roads devoured to the rhythm of the inline-four that pulls hard from 5,000 rpm, comfortable highway cruising thanks to the half fairing that deflects wind effectively, and even the occasional track day for the more daring. The claimed top speed of 250 km/h gives an idea of the raw potential. Its direct rivals, the Honda CBF 1000 and the Suzuki GSX 1250 FA, lean more toward relaxed touring. The FZ1 prefers to keep one foot in the sport camp, even if it means sacrificing a bit of comfort on long rides.

On the financial side, the price of a new Yamaha FZ1 1000 Fazer was set at 12,049 euros, a competitive figure given the level of equipment. Today, a used Yamaha FZ1 1000 Fazer can be found at very attractive prices, whether it's a 2006, 2007, or 2013 model year. This is actually one of its strongest selling points: for the budget of a new mid-size adventure bike, you get a powerful roadster with solid mechanical pedigree and the proven reliability of the R1 engine. Beginners should steer clear, however, because 150 horsepower in such an effective chassis demands a minimum of experience and respect. For seasoned riders seeking versatility without giving up thrills, the FZ1 remains a safe bet on the market, even years after its release. Yamaha pulled it off: delivering a motorized Swiss army knife equally capable of eating up miles and biting into tarmac when you crack the throttle open.