2009 Yamaha FZ6R Review

By: Cameron C Martel

If you find yourself bored on Sunday afternoon, and if the weather permits, you may soon be wishing you had something that was fun and exciting to do. A motorcycle, they say, is the most fun you will ever have on the ground. As an avid cyclist, and as someone who just loves having a good time, I couldn't agree more. This brings me back to the before mentioned Sunday afternoon, where the sun is shining and the weather is sweet. What's missing from this picture?

Ah, yes, the Yamaha FZ6R.

This new-for-2009 sport bike isn't really a sport bike at all, but rather a comfortable and competent entry-level machine that is a step above the Kawasaki Ninja 500 (the de facto standard for learner bikes) in both looks and performance. Compared to other entry level motorcycles, the Yamaha FZ6R is jam packed with personality.

Looks and Performance

One look at the Yamaha FZ6R is enough to make someone fall in love. Distinct styling, combined with aggressive fairing and wide tires (for the size of motorcycle) give the FZ6R a unique look. Without a doubt, the FZ6R is not lacking curb appeal. Of course, all the aggressive fairing in the world won't mean a thing if the motorcycle handles like a Vespa.

Starting up the motorcycle reveals the silky-smooth idle of the fuel injected four cylinder former R6 engine, and once you rev it (and you will want to) you will be rewarded with an angelic exhaust tone. True, this is not a pocket rocket. Also true is the fact that the FZ6R isn't really any faster than any of its primary competition (Kawasaki Ninja 650R, Suzuki SV650S). However, the amount of personal satisfaction that owners of this motorcycle are sure to enjoy will easily outweigh any of those minor shortcomings.

And believe me when I say that they are indeed minor. Once you have this bike moving you will be experiencing a riding situation that is far and beyond what most "entry level" motorcycles offer. There is no clunky carbureted engine, no lacklustre acceleration, and no disapproving looks from other motorcycle riders. There is speed when you need it, there is the ride that you want (stiff, but not too stiff), and the aesthetics that cause other people to constantly ask you what you're riding.

Ride this bike hard and it will reward you with sub-12 second acceleration times (your $8,000 motorcycle will keep up with $180,000 Ferrari's), enthusiastic turn-in, and the ability to stop your newfound lover on a dime.

So How Good Is It?

This may very well be one of the best entry level middleweight sport bikes ever conceived, and in my humble opinion this motorcycle is worthy of respect from any rider, regardless of their experience level. Get on one, ride it, and see for yourself- you'll be glad you did.