FZ1 (vs FZ6)

[gnyce]

So after renting an FJR and getting a taste of slightly more power on the road.... I see a few FZ1 bikes for sale (a nearby '14 example). As I understand it - the FZ6 engine is a detuned R6, so the FZ1 is a detuned R1 engine... do list-members have any experience with this bike?? Part of me thinks this is a bad idea to even consider, given that I've got my bike set up over the years to fit me. But feeling a bit restless, I'm also looking at other pastures. The FZ1 might be a little easier to get 3rd party equipment for, it is a little more modern (while still hewing to the same sort of thread or "vibe" as the FZ6). It seems like a logical upgrade. Thoughts and opinions?

 

[Gary in NJ]

I had a friend that had an FZ1. The bike is a beast. Great suspension. It's feels larger than the FZ6, both at rest and in motion. I always thought it to be 2lb hammer when a 18oz framing hammer was all that was needed. With that said...I often do my framing with a 2lb hammer....

 

[Erci]

You've come to the right place!
I owned FZ6 for a couple of years and then FZ1 for ~4 years. Absolutely LOVED FZ1.. one of my all-time favorite bikes!
I too wanted "more go" and always drooled over FZ1 when I still had my FZ6.
I had a 2007.. pretty much no changes between 06 and 14 model years.

The good: (compared directly to FZ6)
Lots and lots of power. The bike (with stock gearing) does 85mph in 1st gear before you hit rev limiter!
Less vibration than FZ6, but there's still some at certain RPM.
No need to rev as high to get it moving.. it starts to pull from about 3.5k RPM.
Better suspension (particularly the fork).

The less good:
It's more thirsty. Casual riding will yield 40mpg.. silly riding is more like 36mpg. Perfectly happy on 87 though.. no need for premium.
It's not as flickable as FZ6. Biggest factor is the wider rear tire (190/50). A popular way to go is 180/55 .. supposedly makes a huge difference, but I never tried this. I was happy with 190.
Riding position is more "sport bike". Pegs are higher and farther back.
Gearing is super-tall. Can't really have the clutch fully out for u-turns.. just something to get used to.

I'd seriously gladly have one today if I could have multiple bikes.. which I can, but not if I want to stay married

Those are some general points. Feel free to ask if you come up with other Qs. I put over 30k miles on that bike.. well familiar with it.

 

[TownsendsFJR1300]

^^^ SWEET!!!!

.

 

[gnyce]

You've come to the right place!

Geez is there NOTHING you-all don't know?!?! I do a lot of 'what-ifs' and nothing may come of it. I also flirt with the idea of a street/speed triple. I do not need any more bikes, but there you go, you know? This '14 was first advertised as new/no-miles which caught me eye. Wasn't true - has 14k or so, but still looks clean. But it feels like there would be too much overlap with the FZ6. Thank you SO MUCH for the thoughtful comparisons, that sort of stuff is gold. More power is nice but also makes it more likely to get yourself in trouble. I _also_ would like to stay married! Cheers all

 

[agf]

I cant give performance specs but moving up from the FZ6 to a 2020 XSR900 proved a beautiful transition. The ergonomics were better suited for me, the torque across the whole range was a pleasant change. I always loved the XSR looks so I was as happy as a pig in.....

Mileage is about the same but the tank is only 14 litres. the kerb weight is almost the same too. the one big similarity between the FZ6 and the XSR900 is the seat (and then the 2021 XSR seat went one step further and Yamaha created the monstrous eyesore). I think the XSR was a natural progression for an upgrade to bike when still riding the same way, Not touring, not commuting, but can do short weekenders with bags over the seat. It is a very enjoyable bike that is a hoot to ride

 

[Senior]

Well Well

I'VE GOT BOTH. @gnyce

I got the FZ6 in 2008 as my first motorcycle and after some years of hankering after an FZ1 (for a bit more power too) I got that in 2018.

The intension was to trade in the FZ6 - but I'm so glad I didn't, as I get to ride 2 great bikes. I don't need to ride to commute so it's all riding for fun/pleasure.

The FZ6 is my go to and I ride it more than the FZ1 as I find it more comfortable, better wind protection and feels more like I'm sat in the bike rather than on the bike with the FZ1.

My FZ1 is a 2006 and has the harder rear shock, that was soften a little from the 2007 model. Also the "fuel cut" is quite noticeable when rolling off above 6000rpm, re-applying throttle after it being closed from above 6000rpm there is a lurch as the power comes back in. I looked into getting some re-mapping done, but I can now ride around it.

However, if I want some "fun" I'll ride the FZ1 on shorter day rides, the any gear power and acceleration is SO good and makes for more relaxed "brisk" riding than the higher revs necessary from the FZ6. I always come back from a ride on the FZ1 with a big grin .

From and handling point of view there's nothing really in it, I can jump on either bike ride as hard as I want with confidence, I'll do 1 or 2 track days per year and alternate which one I take, both are shod with Michelin Pilot Road 4.

They are both great in their own ways, I've recently come back from a 1500 mile trip from UK into France, Belgium & Germany and I took the FZ6, yes a long trip on the smaller engine.

They are both set up the same, I've now got Givi top box mount on the FZ1, and the box moves between the bikes, plus I have TomTom mounts on both handlebar.

What @Erci said is spot on

I'd happily have either as an only bike - but am fortunate to be able to have both



Rode them back to back on the same day and got pictures in the same spot.

 

[bigborer]

Some years ago I wanted to upgrade to the FZ1.
Long story short I gave up after I found out that many claim the range is at least 20% lower (smaller tank + bigger engine), and instead upgraded the suspension and brakes on the FZ6.
Today, the only Yamaha I'd really upgrade to would be an XSR900 GP- the one in red and yellow