Wow! 2014 Yamaha FZ-09

I think Yamaha hit this one out of the park, more power, better seating position, lower price than the fz-8, nice modern nekkid bike.



My only quibble, small tank size, but I assume this will be the footprint on which to build a new sport tourer with bigger tank, bags, etc.

Engine: 847cc liquid-cooled Inline Triple, 12-valve
Bore x Stroke: 78.0 x 59.1mm
Compression Ratio: 11.5:1
Fuel Delivery: Fuel-injection
Clutch: Wet multi-plate, cable actuation
Transmission: 6-Speed
Front Suspension: 41 mm Telescopic fork; adjustable preload and rebound, 5.4-in travel
Rear Suspension: Single shock; adjustable preload and rebound damping, 5.1-in travel
Final Drive: O-ring chain
Front Brake: Dual hydraulic disc, 298mm
Rear Brake: Hydraulic disc, 245mm
Front Tire: 120/70-17
Rear Tire: 180/55-17
Curb Weight: 414 lbs.
Wheelbase: 56.7 in.
Length: 81.7 in.
Width: 32.1 in.
Rake / Trail: 25 deg. / 4.1 in.
Seat Height: 32.1 in.
Fuel Capacity: 3.7 gal.
USA MSRP: $7,990

 

Every motor I'm aware of has ROUND exhaust ports.

I want ROUND exhaust pipes (and a ROUND headlight.)

Seen anything about fuel economy?

 

Spinalator,

I had started a thread a while back on these that brought up some good topics of discussion. Check it out:
http://xjbikes.com/Forums/viewtopic/t=43271.html
I've been looking at more videos that are posted on YouTube. Most everyone that's done a review is very impressed.

Fitz, a bit of research shows Yamaha's estimate to be 40MPG. With the potential to alter the gearing through a sprocket change, I'm sure that could be improved upon. And, that would help with it's tendency to lift the front wheel so easily. That way you wouldn't look like a hooligan every time you went out for some fun.

I'm also with you on the headlight. On the plus side, most of the aftermarket slip-ons are round...that should make you happy.

 

33 mpg to 40 depending on the map selection for Fi on the handlebar.

sorry HH, I did a search but it never came up, I forgot the dash in FZ-09, lol

 

Guess maybe i am old school. I m sure the bike is really nice but would rather it be more of a standard old style bike 4 cyls like the new 1100 honda. Don't get me wrong i loved my zx11 to me it felt like a sport tourer. It kinda reminds me of a sport tourer that was dropped and the fairings taken off.

 

I like that as well, i have not seen one on the road up here, only in the showroom!

 

I would like a half fairing version like the fz6. Wind protection but doesnt hide the motor.

 

Here's a concept mock-up that has a small fairing and panniers for ya:
http://www.asphaltandrubber.com/wp-cont ... ign-01.jpg

I'm sure Yamaha's working on something new......time will tell.

 

Accessories on the Canadian Site. Good to see things are still 15% higher than US prices. :evil:

Yamaha Canada


I like how you can "add to payment estimator" Very clever, put it in your basket and finance your genuine Yamaha accessories! :thumbsup:

 

Even at a 15% premium, I bet you're still planing a trip to the Yamaha dealer aren't you?

I wonder if my local dealer has one?

 

Saw one of these in person Friday, before they're even released!!

Sick looking and sounding bike, love the triple.

Owner was trippin out over how much torque it has, only had 178 miles on it though so still had to keep it under 5k for
Te first 500 miles, then things really get fun I'm sure

 

Sorry but I still can't wrap my head around:

It's the same physical size and weight as my 550 Seca (wheelbase within 1.5") both are chain driven 6-speeds.

Now granted, it makes more than DOUBLE the horsepower; but in Cycle World's testing they got a whole 33mpg with it. Compared to 53mpg from the 550 Seca.

For me, one of the appealing things about motorcycles is that they get so much better mileage than cars. I don't need a 115HP commuter bike if it means I'm only going to get the same fuel economy as my VW.

What I really can't understand is that the technology is probably there to tune for economy without giving up decent performance; it would probably be just as nice of a bike if it only made say, 95HP but got decent fuel economy. Same for the low-40mpg R6.

 

I agree with the economy thing for commuters. If it is also doing highway or two up duty then the extra ponies are nice, in bumper to bumper it is not fun for me to be on my 150 hp bike.

 

From the looks of that seat, it's not really what I'd call a two-up tourer.

I read this review: http://www.cycleworld.com/2013/09/20/20 ... tos-specs/ which concludes "If this is the future of the low-price utility bike, your commute just got a lot more fun."

Hence my argument in favor of a more practical machine if it's aiming to be a "low-price utility bike." I can't see it as being a practical commuter when I'm getting 32mpg from my 5-year old (gas) VW.

If this is the future of the low-price utility bike, my commute just got more expensive. And probably nearly impossible to service myself.

 

So I was doing some more reading. Apparently Honda have figured this out (giving up "class leading horsepower" for real-world practicality.) They're claiming 66mpg for the new NC700X.

 

i'am thinking that NC700X DCT ABS might be the ticket, i've shifted enough gears

 

They have 3 models of the 700 and a VRF1200 with the automatic, just wish they offered 1 that didn't look like a transformer.

 

Triumph Speedmaster is nice too.

 

I'm all for having some fun when I ride and I don't consider the FZ a commuter. And, I think anyone who buys an FZ-09 / MT-09 doesn't have fuel economy at the top of their list either.

Fitz,
For comparison sake against your 550 Seca (that has around 55BHP), the Honda NC700X stats are:
Power 38 kW (51 hp) @ 6,250 rpm
Torque 61 N·m (45 lb·ft) @ 4,750 rpm

As you said the claimed fuel consumption is (65.7 mpg-US). It has a high torque peak at a low RPM, mainly because of it being unusually under-square with a 73mm bore and an 80mm stroke. Kinda like having a Diesel power band, but it burns gasoline. Now that's a bike that would appeal to an enthusiast who commuted, being that their number one priority is probably fuel mileage.

Now if Yamaha downsized the triple (to the 500 - 700cc range) they could improve the mileage to beyond 50MPG. Not saying it would be on par with the Honda 700's, but they could add an another exciting addition to their line up (in the 75-90 BHP range ) for the fuel conscious buyer.

 

I like that alot! Thankz

 

Rode the 1200 Auto. Didn't like it one bit. Found the lack of control when pushed into corners unnerving. Low gear changes seemed a bit odd too. Just my 2 cents.

 

I'm interested in the NC700 but wouldn't want to give up my gearbox.

 

There are two versions available; one has a traditional manual clutch and 6-speed gearbox. Honda claims 64mpg for the standard-transmission version.

Plus, it has a round-section muffler. I fear we're seeing the end of round headlights though, just like with cars.

It also costs $149.00 more than what they list it for if you want a centerstand. I can't believe it's optional.

 

Centrestand is optional on pretty much all bikes now,some don't even have one available!
I too find that ........strange.

 

I had to buy a center stand for my VFR, a bike that has hard luggage as an option. I think it is a cost cutting measure, the manufacturers claim that some don't like it and remove it due to excess weight.

 

The FZ-09 has pre-drilled holes in the swing-arm so you can bolt on spools. That way you can use a track style stand when needed for servicing or storage.

The down side is that if you find yourself in a situation where you need it while riding (away from your "home base"), you're stuck with just the side-stand.

 

As it fades even further from "utility"...

 

Fitz, I am with you on the mpg. OnB, with you on the transformer thing.

I already mentioned the CB1100 on more than one thread. I am patiently waiting for the gently used one to grace my local craigslist.

But I like the looks of the CTX700N naked, and basic is still with a clutch:
http://www.cycleworld.com/wp-content/up ... CT_010.jpg

Seems like a good utility bike, although maybe a little light on hp.

 

Fitz don't do forward-set controls. But I like the fact that it doesn't look like Spiderman's bike.

Now if one of them would give us a 700cc (since that seems to be the new popular "utility" size) bike that looks like the CB1100 I might just have to think about selling an old bike or two.

But it has to have a round headlight, round-section exhaust pipes and a real gas tank and get better fuel economy than my 30+ year old Seca 550. Oh, and a better SEAT, Fitz=old guy.

The REAL pisser is, they (Honda, Kawasaki) make them and sell them elsewhere in the world. I just wish Yamaha would build a 700cc version of the XJR1300. I would then pack up and move to wherever they sell them.

 

Fitz, get a 2007 919 and pull one spark plug!

 

Fitz I found one for you that you might like? It has a round headlight and exhaust pipes........

 

^^ LOL

 

Or how about a water cooled Kawasaki?



You can find more at Motosketches

 

And one last one....a Yamaha FZX:

 

The Norton's cool but I already have a real one...

And it has round pipes and a round headlight like all of my XJs and every other bike I've ever owned.

I can almost deal with the headlight, if it's TRULY a case of form following more aerodynamic function; but so far I'm seeing them mainly as a styling exercise (with a few notable exceptions.)

Ain't no excuse on mufflers from where I sit. Exhaust ports are round. You don't improve their function by making the muffler square, or triangular or whatever goofy shape they can imagine. It's not a ground clearance thing, they have no compunction about moving them up.

This bike pictured below isn't just a design sketch; it's a real 800cc production bike sold elsewhere in the world, but they (Kawasaki) will not bring them here:




And then there's the one I won't let up about; honestly if Yamaha brought this here in maybe, 700 ~ 800cc form don't you think they'd sell?

 

That's why I picked the Norton and I know they are just sketches that I came across, but thought they may spark some interest.

As for some of the styling cues like exhaust systems and headlights, it's just the current crop of stylists following the trends of what they believe the modern day motorcyclist is looking for. I'm not saying it's right or wrong, but some of the new looks do take a bit of getting used to.

On the utility side of things, the basic form and function seems to be lacking on some models, like seating only appropriate for one, small fuel tanks, forward controls, and no center stands. I think the new style headlights probably are here to stay, mainly because they provide more effective illumination and beam pattern.

I do like the XJR, and think that if they could adapt some of the new technology to a new standard style bike like that, I agree it would do quite well.

And BTW, Kawasaki did bring the W650 to the US for 2000 and 2001. It didn't sell well, so they dropped it from the lineup. If you're interested in one I've seen them used on occasion, and think they have a cool retro look.

 

I have to say i have a really low miles 400 automatic its slower then a turtle but it is quiet and nice just to cruise around on. Very weird a bike with a torque converter run the heck out of it and not get in trouble. Start off in 1st or 2nd it does not care. I have plenty of faster bikes just depends on the mood lol.

 

Yep if I was seriously looking for a new bike the W800 and the NC700 would both be on the test ride list I'd have to include the Bonneville as well but the Kawasaki W seems to have out triumphed the bonnie.
The new Cali and the new V7 would both be on the list as well.
But if I was going to be sensible the wee strom would get a look in as well.
And whatever I chose would come home with a centrestand.

 

I got a little moist seeing that, I'll admit it.

 

I think most of us old duffers have mixed feelings about the new bikes. What I like are the suspension, brakes, ABS and Fuel Injection. What I do not like are the weird styling cues, which will looks weird in 10 years.

I will admit, the only thing I like naked bikes for, is to jet around the city or immediate countryside and commute, I do not like them on the highway for any longer than an hour at a time.

My brother in law has a Ducati hypermotard and it is a total hooligan bike, but not much fun on the highway for me. He loves it though-different strokes for different folks!

 

The Kawa 800cc is definitely my speed. It's better looking than the norton sketch.

A spitfire windshield and a cargo rack with a small trunk - ready for an adventure.

 

And what about the Bonneville SE?:

The modern wheels on the retro theme is sweet.

 

I agree with you spinalator. Those are the chevy SSR of motorcycles.

http://www.tomstrongman.com/RoadTests/C ... 10back.jpg

No offense to those who own one, but really... they are offensive to have to look at.

In ten years, we will laugh at them, and in 30 they will be collectors gems.

The Yamaha FZ-09 forum will have it's own bigfitz and rickomatic in 2045, and a chacal selling the heck out of aftermarket triangle exhausts

 

OK, since the "W" won, and we can't get the 800 here in the US, I found the next best thing for you Fitz.....a W650:



Well, it's not new, but is in your neighborhood. Here's the CL ad for it:
http://detroit.craigslist.org/mcb/mcy/4100168770.html

I'd still take the Bonnie SE though.

 

i would take that XJR1300 in a second....