The high-selling neo-retro gets its first update
Yamaha India recently updated its entire high-selling range of motorcycles, including the FZ-X for 2023. We were in Jaipur to check out the neo-retro for the unveiling and to ride around Pink City and find out what’s changed.
At first glance, the FZ-X looks identical to the outgoing model because many of the components and styling have been retained. The signature LED projector headlamp with unique DRLs is the same as before. The turn indicators, however, have been replaced, and Yamaha India has finally offered LED units that are sleek and offer bright and diffused lighting. The same units will also be seen on other Yamaha models and goes well with the sport theme. The FZ-X is available in three colours for 2023, the blue shade has been updated to a matte look and also gets contrasting gold-hued alloy wheels that add to the styling.The metallic blue shade with the number insignia and contrasting seat however has been discontinued.
The FZ-X has always offered a capable chassis and a refined 149 cc single-cylinder motor and has been untouched for the 2023 model. However, there are quite a few updates that aid with emission control. With the BS-6 norms ready to move to the next phase, manufacturers need to comply with the more stringent standards. Yamaha India is one of the first two-wheeler manufacturers in India to already offer E20-compliant engines. The FZ-X also gets this, making it capable of running on petrol blended with 20 percent ethanol and, as a result, future-proof too.
Another addition to the FZ-X is the inclusion of a diagnostic system that will allow dealers to easily diagnose problems and monitor emission levels in the motorcycle, as it features an OBD-2 system.
The motor continues to be refined, and performance doesn't seem to have been affected despite the emission control updates. Max power is a decent 12.4PS that’s put out at 7,250rpm while peak torque of 13.3Nm continues to be offered at 5,500rpm. The FZ-X is best suited to riding in town, and the power delivery is ideal for quick bursts in the city. However, reaching triple-digit speeds is a stretch, and it is best to cruise between 80 and 90 kmph. Ride quality is impressive even over broken roads and potholes, while the neutral riding position also helps with overall comfort.
Yamaha has also added a switchable traction control system. A sensor has been added to the rear wheel that detects wheelspin. This safety feature is ideal when riding on very slippery terrain or wet surfaces. The ABS, however, hasn’t been updated, and the FZ-X continues to miss out on a dual-channel system.
Yamaha has priced the FZ-X at Rs 1,35,900 while the matte blue with gold wheels variant is priced at Rs 1,36,900 (both prices, ex-showroom, Delhi). It is priced higher than most rivals, but with the additional features and updates, the motorcycle is expected to do well for Yamaha India.
