Yamaha FZ X

The Yamaha FZ-X is one that has taken a lot of design influences from the XSR155 and it is quite evident in the teardrop-shaped tank, mental fender brace and even the headlight brace. That said, Yamaha hasn’t been able to give the bike a unique style that would make it stand out from the XSR155. The build quality is up to the mark and is a step up from what Yamaha has produced in the past couple of years. But the lack of a hinged fuel cap makes refuelling a bit inconvenient.

The Yamaha FZ-X is powered by a 149cc air-cooled single-cylinder engine which produces 12.4PS at 7250rpm and 13.3Nm at 5500rpm. But the engine is not up to the mark in terms of performance and feels underpowered. 

Compared to the Bajaj NS125, the FZ-X is 0.6 seconds slower in the 0-60kmph acceleration test, and this gap widens to 1.11 seconds in the 0-80kmph run (as tested in 2021). Though the acceleration figures aren’t impressive, the FZ-X’ engine compensates with its tractability, which allows you to ride it in a gear or two higher, without the engine feeling stressed; even 30kmph in fifth gear is quite easy.

The lacklustre performance isn’t a major deal-breaker, as the bike is able to make up in terms of mileage, giving 55.11kmpl in the city and 48.67kmpl on the highway, which pays off in this era of high petrol costs.

The FZ-X is a fairly predictable handler, but the dual-purpose tyres are a bit limiting on the tarmac and do not inspire the confidence needed to go hard on the corners. The suspension setup is good and manages to absorb most of the small bumps on the roads easily, and even the larger bumps won’t be a jarring experience. The brakes are decent and the bike doesn’t lose composure under hard braking.

Coming to comfort, the FZ-X is able to provide a good experience. The seat is long and wide, but the cushioning is a bit towards the softer side. The upright riding posture with the handlebar is angled towards the rider and fairly forward-set footpegs are able to give a relaxed riding position that makes it an ideal commuter. But long rides on the highway are not an enjoyable experience and are further spoiled by the extra soft seat. The seat height is 810mm, which isn’t low but getting both feet on the ground won’t be an issue for most riders. 

The Yamaha FZ-X gets an LED projector headlight and LED taillight and indicators, along with an LCD instrument cluster that is compatible with the Yamaha Y-Connect app. It brings features such as call and SMS alerts, mileage details, last parked location and malfunction and service alerts. But, the bike doesn’t get turn-by-turn navigation like its competitors. Yamaha has also included traction control which, honestly, is unnecessary for a 150cc bike.

Other notable features include a USB charging port below the instrument console, an offset fuel tank cap, and a tuck-and-roll single-piece seat with upright handlebars. The bike also gets a single-channel ABS and side-stand engine cut-off function. Yamaha’s official accessory list includes seat cover, tank grips, engine guard chrome rear view mirrors, among others.

The Yamaha FZ-X’ unique design is the only selling point at this price range. It’s priced on par with the top-end variant of the TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, a bike that not only offers much better performance but also tons of features. So if you’re looking for a retro bike that offers great mileage, looks unique, and are okay with the premium price tag, then you can consider the FZ-X On the other hand, if you’re keen on buying a ‘proper’ retro bike, then you’ll be better off with the spoke-wheeled variant of the Royal Enfield Hunter 350.