The evolution of the FZ6 arrives for 2009 with a full fairing, ergonomics benefiting riders of all sizes and whiffs of performance that bring to mind its older brother, the R6.

The new FZ6R proves a punchy middleweight sport bike.

With an engine inherited from a recent version of the YZF-R6, a full sport fairing, a seat designed for an upright riding position, higher grips and an efficient wind deflector, the new FZ6R proves a punchy middleweight sport bike. It's well adapted to its main calling, languid city driving, but is also capable of kicking it up on the road or the track, where the upright position makes life easier for the more "robust" and less flexible riders among us.

The engineers cut back just a tad on power compared to the R6 of a few years ago, while emphasizing torque delivery and spacing the transmission's six gears to better handle the increased torque. The engine is a stressed member of the aluminum chassis, ensuring solid support for the sporty suspension that will only add to the fun sure to be had astride this great middleweight ride. A great deal for $8,299.

The engineers cut back just a tad on power compared to the R6 of a few years ago.

Photo Credit : Yamaha