Right from the start the original FZS600 Fazer proved to be an outstanding success story for Yamaha. Shown for the first time at the Paris Show in late 1997, this truly versatile middleweight offered a winning blend of performance, style, easy handling and economy.
The first generation Fazer's engine was developed from the super-sport YZF600R Thunder Cat, and was slotted in a double cradle steel frame. Now the new generation FZ6 Fazer builds on the strengths of the original and offers today's riders even higher levels of engine and chassis performance combined with reduced weight, increased versatility and even more sophisticated styling.
The FZS600 is the faired version of the naked FZ600. Both models use the same 599cc liquid cooled 97bhp motor - a detuned version of the YZF-R6 supersport. The latest generation Fazers might make more power, but although the engine thrives on revs some riders will prefer the extra torque of the old engine.
For an ideal combination of light weight and good rigidity, the updated Fazer gets an aluminium die-cast beam frame produced with Yamaha's CF Die Cast Technology instead of the steel frame.
The 43mm front fork is the same size as on the Fazer 1000 (41 mm on the 2003 Fazer 600). To accommodate this, the pitch in the fork has been increased from 190 to 210mm and the handlebar crown is now a single cast aluminium unit with the upper bracket.
The Monocross rear suspension gives the new Fazer an action that feels as good as link-equipped suspension. With sport settings, the rear wheel travel can be increased to 130mm (10mm more than before).
Modifying the petrol tank design has allowed an increased steering lock so that the Fazer can be turned tighter for greater manoeuvrability in city riding.
The new windscreen provides good wind protection while also producing minimum turbulence and wind noise. This screen surrounds the front of the body cowl and creates a dashboard appearance from the rider's point of view, with the liquid crystal meter panel and the integrated tachometer and speedometer in the middle.
The latest FZS600 Fazer is an outstanding package with a distinctive character that will deliver the goods - whether sports riding, touring or commuting.
