NEW DELHI: The true streetfighter design is something that was missing from the Indian mass bike segment until Yamaha came up with the first-generation FZ16 in 2008. The aggressive styling and meaty 140 section rear tyre of the motorcycle quickly grabbed the attention of enthusiasts who were craving for a dominating yet pocket-friendly ride.
But everything changes with the time and the hunger for power kept increasing. While most have been happy with the 150cc models, there were some willing to get a level-up. Manufacturers introduced a new segment which was perfect for those looking for an affordable performance machine – the entry-level-performance category. Yes, there were some naked sport bikes as well in the category, but the FZ fans were still waiting for something else.
Finally, Yamaha understood the need of its Indian buyers after more than eight years and the result is here.
Design and styling:
While most of the bikes take inspiration from their elder siblings, the FZ25 follows the design lines of the smaller FZs. However, the 250cc model looks slightly bigger and definitely much meaner as compared to its 150cc version.
The low-slung LED headlamp gives a transformer face to the bike which is further complimented with a masculine 14-litre fuel tank. The chiselled tank cladding gets big air scoops on both sides, adding to the ‘wild’ appeal.
There is an all-digital instrument cluster with lots of information. However, the LCD screen looks a little disappointing in terms of size. The seat cowls are sleek but wide which makes the Yamaha FZ25 look chubby from the rear. However, the stubby exhaust saves them from making the rear profile disproportionate.
The split-seat is a basic and is not new to the segment while the tyre hugger sports a new, smart saree guard. The design of short hugger further compliments the new chain cover that is attached to the box section swingarm. The 10-spoke alloys are also new and look sportier than the five-spoke ones on the smaller FZs.
The quality of the materials used on the bike is quite nice and the fit and finish are also satisfactory. Designed keeping the FZ fans in mind, the model features most of the signature elements from the series but in slightly scaled-up form.
Electricals:
The orange backlit LCD screen on the FZ25’s dashboard is small but informative. Along with the speedo, tacho, odometer and a fuel gauge, it packs a digital clock, two trip meters, and average and instantaneous fuel consumptions. The placement of switches is conventional so one will find it familiar, except the pass integrated into the low/high beam switch.
The white illumination of the always on LED headlamp gives a new feel. However, it is no different from a conventional unit in terms of illumination besides the three LED elements saving on the battery. The tail lamp is an LED unit as well while the turn indicators remain conventional.
Engine and Performance:
Yamaha dropped the idea of liquid-cooling and adapted an oil-cooler for the new 250cc motor. So, basically, it is a single-pod, air-cooled motor that is claimed to deliver 20.9PS of power which might sound little dull but the peak torque output of 20Nm takes the charge to thrill.
The engine feels refined until it crosses 7,000rpm but it won’t be required as the peak torque is available at just 6,000rpm. Achieving the top power makes the pegs and the handlebar alive with vibrations. Fueling sits just right with an electronic fuel injection system and one can feel the instant response of the throttle. And the exhaust note also has a perfect grunt that suits the dominating appeal of the motorcycle.
[Source”indianexpress”]
