The Yahama FZ and the FZ16 was a great hit for Yamaha. Launched in 2008, the FZ became one of the popular choices for youths. The Yamaha FZ25 is now available in Nepalese market and it aims to be the best big in its segment.
For motorcycle enthusiasts who wanted something more than the FZ, there's really wasn't much option. The FZ was great and all but it lacked in the performance department. That's where the FZ25 slots in. The Yamaha FZ25 is powered by a single cylinder 249cc air-cooled engine, fuel-injected engine which churns out 20.3bhp of power and 20 Nm of Torque @ 6000RPM. For reference, the FZ16 only produces 14 bhp and 14 Nm of torque. Okay, I have to be honest here. The 200cc Duke produces more power and is peppier but the engine on the Duke 200 isn't as refined as the one you will find in the FZ25. Also, the FZ25 is the more frugal bike.
The 250cc engine on the Yamaha FZ25 is mated to a five-speed gearbox which is smooth and the bike doesn't vibrate much in at higher RPMs. There's no sudden surge of power like on the Duke and the power delivery is linear and well spread throughout the rev range. Also, hitting 100kph isn't that difficult on the FZ25. The bike felt relaxed even at that speed during my testing!
The FZ25 is styled really well and will appeal especially to the youths. The streetfighter styling only adds to the charm. The muscular 14L tank and the beefy rear tyres on the bike really stand out. You immediately recognize it's an FZ even if you are miles away! The rear of the FZ25 also looks good, especially at the night. The bike is equipped with a LED taillight that will probably fall in love with. The bike itself weighs 148kgs and this is something I am not really fond of. It has gained 13kgs when compared to its younger brother, the FZ16. The bike would have felt much agile if it weighted just a little less.
However, it is not to say that the FZ25 handles poorly. In fact, it's the opposite. Zig-zagging through the narrow streets of Kathmandu was an easy affair and cornering through the twisties was just as easy. The 140/70 17 section rear tubeless tyres only add to the confidence. The bike also comes with both front and rear disc brake which is a great addition.
All in all, the Yamaha FZ25 is a really good bike and especially for city driving, things can't get any better. The bike is efficient and has enough power to please you in all kinds of terrain. Performing an overtaking maneuver is a breeze too! If you are looking for a bike in the quarter-liter segment, you should definitely check out the Yamaha FZ25.