Yamaha propose the all new FZ-07, a sleek naked bike designed for the city and beyond. It's a modern and friendly two-wheeler that offers the best of both worlds on weekdays, and helps you escape on winding country roads during the weekend.

With contemporary looks and features normally found on larger bikes (180mm rear tire, dual front discs with 4-piston callipers), the 2015 Yamaha FZ-07 has what it takes to win over enthusiasts. Visually inspired by the FZ-09, but with slightly more convoluted shapes, the FZ-07 looks clean and complex at the same time, due in part to the sharp and angular plastic trim pieces that cover the fuel tank (easier and cheaper to replace after a crash).

The swooping tail, gullwing-type swingarm, black plastic-trimmed fork, carbon-like radiator cowls, as well as the 2-tone front fender and fuel tank cover will also turn heads. Fit and finish are just as good as on the FZ-09.


Lean and strong
Weight reduction has become a big priority for bike manufacturers, and the heavy, costly 4-cylinder engines are gradually being dumped in favour of smaller twin-cylinders. The 2015 Yamaha FZ-07 tips the scales at just 180kg (on average 20kg lighter than most rivals).

There's been a lot of work on the frame, too. The engine now handles load-bearing duties, with the 9-position preload adjustable rear shock directly attached to the transmission case. At the other end is a conventional 41mm front fork that provides 130mm of travel (same as the rear shock).

Braking is powerful and easy to modulate courtesy of dual 282mm wave-shaped front discs and a single 240mm rear disc. Unfortunately, we won't get the (non-combined) ABS technology found on the European MT-07.

The 2015 Yamaha FZ-07 tips the scales at just 180kg (on average 20kg lighter than most rivals). (Photo: Matt Filion)

All-new 689 cc engine powers the 2015 Yamaha FZ-07
In order to increase output, efficiency, and durability, the 2015 Yamaha FZ-07 offsets the cylinders 7mm relative to the crankshaft (to the exhaust side) which reduces frictional losses. What's more, fuel consumption drops to just 4.5L/100km. The engine uses a newly designed, 270-degree crankshaft with an uneven firing sequence to improve response, and a gear-driven balance shaft to reduce vibration.

Producing 75 hp, along with 50 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm, the 2015 Yamaha FZ-07 outperforms most direct competitors. In terms of feel, it's even more charismatic than the engine that powers the Kawasaki ER-6n. However, the smooth transmission has excessively long gear ratios, which reduces the number of shifts at the expense of acceleration and riding excitement. Luckily for us, the flexible engine won't hesitate to pick up momentum at just 2,000 rpm, showing admirable gusto from 3,000-7,000 rpm.

With no protection against the elements, you sit on a flat, decently comfortable seat while enjoying a natural riding position that puts very little stress on the wrists. On the flip side, the FZ-07's footrests are mounted fairly high and not very far back, limiting rider legroom.

Producing 75 hp, along with 50 lb-ft of torque at 6,500 rpm, the 2015 Yamaha FZ-07 outperforms most direct competitors. (Photo: Matt Filion)

Friendly and playful
Lightweight, slim enough, and powered by a friendly engine, the 2015 Yamaha FZ-07 feels just as easy to ride as a 300cc bike. Handling-oriented geometry (short swingarm, small rake, seat height of 805mm) makes it a wonderful beginner bike -- one that will never prove boring.

Riding on a comfort-tuned suspension, the 2015 Yamaha FZ-07 has a disconcerting ability to change direction and then maintain it without a dedicated effort by the rider. It remains calm at higher speeds, even when facing strong winds. Such combination of agility and stability is pretty rare in this segment.

Lightweight, slim enough, and powered by a friendly engine, the 2015 Yamaha FZ-07 feels just as easy to ride as a 300cc bike. (Photo: Matt Filion)

Summing up the 2015 Yamaha FZ-07
Priced at $7,299, the 2015 Yamaha FZ-07 delivers a mix of styling, handling, and equipment that's hard to beat. While enjoying equally good products, Yamaha fans will now get more bang for their buck than ever.

Pros

• Perfect engine for this bike
• Rare combination of agility and stability
• Unique styling
• Attractive price

Cons

• Excessively long gear ratios
• Limited legroom