When the FZ6 debuted in North America in 2004 it filled the slot between the bulky FZ1 and the race-ready but unforgiving R6. Yamaha was in need of a do-it-all streetbike that was fast enough to hold its own, but comfortable enough to double as a commuter or a sport tourer.
In search of the right combo, Yamaha built this jack-of-all trades around the 2003 R6 motor (the current R6S). Knowing full well that the sky-high powerband of the R6 wouldn't cut it on the street, the FZ6 was tuned for midrange grunt. Smaller cams were fitted, compression was slightly decreased, different intake tracts were used and a simpler fuel injection system was implemented-the result was a hefty 98 HP and 46.5 LB-FT several thousand RPM lower on the dial. The FZ6 came on strong sooner and signed off earlier, but still sprinted the quarter in 11.5 seconds at 118 mph.
Though many parts from the R6 like the motor and the lightweight wheels found their way onto the FZ6, the bike certainly isn't a parts-bin special. Some noteworthy features include a revolutionary aluminum frame that's bolted together rather than welded, four-pot front calipers and an aluminum swingarm that all totals a rather manageable 456-pound wet weight. The FZ6 is a willing partner on a twisty road, but by no means is it a racer.The suspension strikes a balance between performance and comfort as well.
In later years the FZ6 received updates in the form of a different seat, updated bodywork and other minor details. Further additions included a new instrument cluster, swingarm and a three-way cat that eeks the FZ6 under the strict EU2 and CARB emissions.
Overall, the FZ6 is a strong package for a do-it-all bike that's capable enough for an occasional track day but soft enough for the daily grind. Owners seem to adore their bikes and tend to use them for all of the above. Though gripes are few and far between, fragile steering head bearings and soft factory suspension seem to be the weakest links.
As such, bearing upgrades for the steering head are common as well as stiffer fork springs and heavier fork oil. Exhaust upgrades and aftermarket seats follow a close second.
Like most Japanese bikes, the FZ6 seems to be long-lived and eager to pile on the miles. Resale prices tend to be fair and with the state of the economy there are plenty of deals to be had.
If you're in the market for a sporting all-rounder, the FZ6 just might be your card. After all, with some R6 cams and a little tweaking you'd have yourself a proper wolf in sheep's clothing.
2004-2009 Yamaha FZ6
Filling the void in the Yamaha camp between the FZ1 and the R6, the FZ6 was a compromise of comfort and performance and made for a jack-of-all trades knockout. Powered by a tweaked version of the 2003 R6 motor, power rang in at 98 HP and 46.5 LB-FT, which resulted in mid 11-second quarter-miles nearing 120 mph. Comfort is good, suspension is supple yet sporting and there's enough power to hang with the best of them. It's a do-it-all mount for the rider who only wants one steed in the stable.