2023 Yamaha FZ-X Review: Comfortable But Uninspiring

The 2023 Yamaha FZ-X gets the famed traction control in the latest iteration.

• The advanced traction controlis a segment-first feature. 
• The 149cc mill makes 12.4PS and 13.3Nm.
• Its quirky design hasn’t seen any change for 2023. 

Manufacturers are updating their two-wheelers to include on-board diagnostic technology. This techanalyses pollutants in real-time as the next stage of BS6 emission rules takes effect on April 1. Accordingly, Yamaha recently modified its motorbike line-up in order to prepare for these new regulations and future-proof the bikes as the government gradually raises the amount of ethanol in our fuel.

One of the first models from the manufacturer to have an E20-compatible engine, which enables it to run on fuel with an ethanol composition of up to 20%, is the upgraded FZ-X that we recently drove in Rajasthan. The introduction of E20 petrol is only getting started nationwide; if the government's aim comes true, all petrol sold in India by 2025 would be E20.

2023 Yamaha FZ-X: Design & Features

With its rounded headlight, massive teardrop fuel tank, straightforward side panels, and big exhaust, the Yamaha FZ-X has a decidedly retro appearance. Additionally, matte black extensions for the fuel tank flow elegantly in a contoured tuck-and-roll seat with a straightforward pillion grab grip. Additionally, a metal engine cowl and golden alloy wheels with fork gaiters are added to the vehicle.

The FZ-X has an instrument console with a negative LCD display that shows data such as speed, tachometer, trip meter, odometer, fuel level, clock, Eco prompt, TCS (Traction Control System) alert, and various warning lights above the display. Additionally, the console displays smartphone notifications, battery life, and call alerts via Bluetooth's Yamaha Y-Connect app. 

The bike now runs on E20 gasoline (20% ethanol and 80% petrol, which helps reduce emissions), and it has a TCS (Traction Control System) to prevent tyre slippage.

2023 Yamaha FZ-X: Engine Specs

Because the motorcycle and engine feel essentially the same when being driven, most purchasers are likely to overlook these subtle modifications. And that means a well-tuned, somewhat tractable 149cc engine with a meaty mid-range and sharp throttle response that makes for a good city steed. 

However, if performance or extended highway trips are your primary priorities, this is most definitely not the bike for you. The top speed is not much more than 100 kph, and as previously, a comfortable cruising speed is more in the neighbourhood of 80 kph. There is very little top-end performance to speak of.

However, we were only able to reach 105 kph, which seems slow for a 150 cc motorcycle. In addition, the FZ-X occasionally lacks the power needed for rapid overtakes. To advance, it requires some encouragement and a downshift. 

The motorcycle's level of comfort did impress us throughout our little ride. The seat is not only roomy and spacious, but it is also comfortable. 

2023 Yamaha FZ-X: Chassis

Everything else aside, the FZ-X is a sure-footed and predictable handler, and the rest of the chassis is more than capable of managing the performance levels this engine gives. Although the rear monoshock has a tiny amount of stiffness, overall the ride is fairly comfortable and fits the bike's laid-back personality well.

2023 Yamaha FZ-X: Dimensions

The traction control system on a 12.4 hp motorcycle is only really going to be useful in weather conditions like the monsoon or when grip levels are reduced because of something like an oil spill, but it is still good to have for those challenging scenarios. However, traction control won't typically be needed, thus dual-channel ABS would have been a better feature.

Unfortunately, the FZ-X still only has a single-channel ABS system, unlike the Bajaj Pulsar N160, which is both more inexpensive and substantially more powerful. Other issues, such as the lack of a gear position indication or a hinged fuel filler, would have also had a greater daily impact.

2023 Yamaha FZ-X: Variants & Price

The bike is offered in three paint jobs, all of which have comparable specifications. Black alloy wheels come standard on the Matte Black and Matte Copper versions, with color-coded rim stickers on the latter. Only the Dark Matte Blue model is offered with the golden alloy wheels, which justifies the additional expense.

The Yamaha FZ-X is available in three colours—Matte Copper, Matte Black, and Metallic Blue—and costs Rs 1,36,900 ex-showroom in Delhi.

Verdict

So, does the 2023 Yamaha FZ-X make sense? The FZ-X is a good motorbike to buy if you're searching for a comfy commuter that stands out from the competition in terms of appearance. Alternatively, you may consider the FZ-S or even the FZ25, which both cost Rs 13,000 more and have superior comfort and touring capabilities. The FZ-X does have some drawbacks, but they are sufficiently insignificant to be overlooked given the motorcycle's advantages.