2019 Yamaha FZ Launch On 21 January

Gets an all-new front facia, a muscular tank with extensions, an engine cowl and much more

• Yamaha is all set to launch the new FZ Version 3.0 on 21 January 2018. 
• The bike gets an all-new design inspired from the current-gen FZ V2 and FZ25.
• It may feature an all-LED headlight and single-channel ABS.
• It’s expected to command a premium of around Rs 10,000 over the model it replaces.

Yamaha is all set to launch the new FZ Version 3.0 on 21 January 2019. We’ve already caught a glimpse of the test mules on India roads and have a pretty good idea of how the bike looks. For 2019, it gets an all-new front end design which draws inspiration from Yamaha’s quarter-litre street fighter FZ25, and a rear section that’s more in line with the FZ FI V2. The engine seems to be the same unit as the current version, however, we could expect a slight bump in power. 

On the design front, the 2019 FZ gets a beefier fuel tank with extensions similar to that of the FZ25. Not only this, but the front facia is also a lot sharper and sportier than before, and it’s likely to get LEDs rather than a conventional halogen bulb. Similarly, its full-digital instrument console and tyre hugger looks akin to the FZ25. 

There’s also a new belly pan that flows well with the tank shroud design. The rear portion and tail light resemble that of the FZ FI V2, albeit with a few tweaks like a new single piece grab rail to make it look fresh. It also gets a muscular looking exhaust end can. Also, the new bike features a single seat as opposed to the split seats seen on the current Yamaha FZ. 

Powering the existing FZ FI is a 149cc, single-cylinder, air-cooled engine that churns out 13.2 PS of power and 12.8 Nm of torque. The motor comes mated to a 5-speed transmission. Going by the stiff competition in the current 150cc segment, we could expect to see a slight bump in power.  

Mechnically, the bike is most likely to remain unchanged. It employs telescopic front forks and an adjustable monoshock at the rear. That said, the test mule does sport dual disc brakes which suggests that the bike may feature the safety net of ABS. The handlebar positioning has also been altered for a more upright riding posture. 

Considering the above mentioned updates, we could expect to see a price hike of around Rs 10,000 over the current model. Once launched, the Yamaha FZ 3.0 will go up against the Suzuki Gixxer, TVS Apache RTR 160 4V, Honda CB Hornet 160R, Pulsar NS160 and the recently launched KTM 125 Duke.

Picture Courtesy: Team BHP