Yamaha FZ 25 BS6: Road Test Review

Is the FZ 25 still an enticing option in the 250cc space? Or should you look beyond it now?

The quarter-litre segment in the country was pretty dormant until the Yamaha FZ 25 arrived. While it couldn’t generate a lot of action people came to expect from a 250cc bike, it was still a sensible option. Eventually, with players like the Suzuki Gixxer 250, Bajaj Dominar 250, and Husqvarna Svartpilen 250, the Yammie started feeling a bit dated. Now, in its BS6 avatar, does the FZ 25 have what it takes to woo us again? Or is it yet another miss-the-bus moment? 

Pros

Lots of bottom-end torque makes it a great bike for the city. Comfortable ergonomics allow for long hours on the saddle without tiring you out. Updated styling grabs eyeballs.

Cons

Highway riding feels beyond the capabilities of the Yamaha FZ 25. The LCD display is almost archaic and lacks present-day features.

Standout feature

The new fascia gives it a butch appearance.

Engine and Performance

The 249cc, two-valve engine is a gem when it comes making your way through city traffic. The motor cleanly pulls from as low as 2,000rpm, even when you are a gear or two higher. There’s ample low and mid-range grunt, making overtaking easy. The clutch is a bit on the heavier side - a slip-and-assist clutch would’ve been a welcome addition. Highway capabilities of the engine are questionable, especially with the top speed we could achieve was 129kmph. The engine feels a bit rough towards the top of the rev range. The 5-speed gearbox could use an extra gear.

Ride And Handling

The suspension setup is tuned on the firmer side, so sharper bumps can be felt through the handlebar. That said, the suspension does a great job of soaking up minor undulations and potholes, even on broken roads. The short wheelbase of 1360mm, along with the light front-end, makes the bike nimble. The wide handlebar, with the slightly forward-set riding position, gives you better control when wading through traffic. The MRF Nylogrip tyres offer decent grip on the tarmac and are confidence-inspiring when shooting through corners.

Braking

Braking is progressive, especially the front. Though the feedback offered is decent, I would have preferred a bit more feel at the lever. The brake bite is sufficient for everyday use, however, a slightly fiercer setup is always a welcome change. The dual-channel ABS isn’t very intrusive.

Technology And Features

In times of TFTs and smartphone-connected dashboards, the FZ 25’s negative-lit display feels dated.  The instrument console is difficult to read in daylight. Misses out on functions like real-time fuel efficiency and a gear-position indicator.

Design

The new LED headlight with the ‘unibrow’ DRL lends the FZ 25 a rugged appearance. The taller flyscreen and the knuckle guards on the ‘S’ variant blend well with the rest of the design, adding to the bike’s appeal.  The tank recesses offer ample space to grip the motorcycle with your thighs. There is no change to the rear end of the bike. The golden wheels on the ‘S’ variant look premium. 

Ergonomics

The rider’s triangle is apt for everyday commute and some spirited riding too. Footpegs are slightly rear-set, but not so much to make you feel uncomfortable after long hours on the saddle. Reaching the handlebar may feel like a bit of a stretch for shorter riders. The 795mm seat height makes it easier for riders of smaller build to plant their feet firmly on the ground. The seat is flat, wide, and well-cushioned. You shouldn’t feel any soreness even after riding for long hours. 

Variants

Available in two variants: Standard and S. The ‘S’ variant gets gold-painted alloy wheels, knuckle guards, and a windscreen. There’s no difference in the mechanicals of both the variants