OVERVIEW & PRICE
PERFORMANCE AND ENGINE
At the heart of the Yamaha FZ-S FI Ver 3.0 is a refined 149cc, air-cooled, 4-stroke, SOHC, 2-valve engine. This powerplant delivers a maximum output of 12.4 PS at 7250 rpm and a peak torque of 13.3 Nm at 5500 rpm. Paired with a smooth-shifting 5-speed manual transmission, the engine provides ample power for city commuting and occasional highway rides.The bike’s performance is further enhanced by its excellent road grip and manoeuvrability, making it a joy to ride in various conditions. With a top speed of approximately 115 kmph, the FZ-S FI Ver 3.0 offers a balanced mix of power and control, suitable for novice and experienced riders.
MILEAGE AND FUEL EFFICIENCY
One of the standout features of the Yamaha FZ-S FI Ver 3.0 is its impressive fuel efficiency. The bike offers an ARAI-claimed mileage of approximately 49.31 kmpl. In real-world conditions, owners report average mileage figures of 45-50 kmpl in city riding and up to 55-60 kmpl on highways. This excellent fuel economy not only saves you money at the pump but also reduces your carbon footprint, making it an economically and environmentally savvy choice.This excellent fuel economy is attributed to Yamaha’s advanced fuel injection technology, which optimises fuel consumption without compromising performance. The FZ-S FI Ver 3.0 cost-efficiency is further highlighted by its estimated running cost of Rs. 1.82 per kilometre, assuming a daily run of 50 kilometres and petrol priced at Rs. 100 per litre. This makes the motorcycle an economical choice for daily commuters and long-distance riders alike.
FEATURES AND TECHNOLOGY
The Yamaha FZ-S FI Ver 3.0 comes equipped with a host of modern features designed to enhance the riding experience.
- LED Lighting: All LED headlights and taillights provide improved visibility and contribute to the bike’s contemporary look.
- Digital Instrument Cluster: A fully digital ‘Negative LCD Instrument Cluster’ offers visibility in various lighting conditions, displaying essential information such as speed, RPM, fuel level, and more.
- Safety Features: The motorcycle includes a side-stand engine cut-off switch and single-channel ABS for enhanced safety.
- Connectivity: Bluetooth connectivity allows riders to stay connected on the go, a feature increasingly valued by modern riders
- Braking System: Equipped with a 282mm front disc, a 220mm rear disc brake, and a single-channel ABS, ensuring effective braking performance.
HANDLING
The Yamaha FZ-S FI Ver 3.0 is praised for its excellent handling capabilities, making it a popular choice among commuters and enthusiasts. The bike is designed to offer a smooth and stable ride, which is particularly beneficial for navigating city traffic. Its flickable nature, combined with a strong mid-range performance, ensures it can efficiently overtake and filter through traffic. The bike’s handling is also commendable on highways, providing a stable and confident ride at higher speeds.Adding a single-channel ABS enhances the bike’s braking performance, providing good stopping power and bite, especially at the front end. This feature contributes to the overall safety and handling of the motorcycle, making it a reliable option for daily commutes.
STYLING AND DESIGN
The Yamaha FZ-S FI Ver 3.0 boasts an aggressive, modern design that appeals strongly to younger riders. Its muscular stance is characterised by sharp lines and edgy aesthetics, drawing inspiration from larger Yamaha models like the FZ25. The bike features a sleek LED headlight, sculpted body panels, and a chiselled fuel tank that tapers into a sporty tail, all contributing to its distinctive and eye-catching appearance. This stylish design is sure to turn heads wherever you go.
A wider stance with a broad fuel tank and extended shrouds enhances its aggressive look. A new LED headlight adds a modern touch to the bike’s front fascia. The new LCD display with a negative LCD scheme provides a premium feel. Single, wider seat that offers more comfort for both the rider and the pillion.
Stylish alloy wheels and a digital instrument cluster add to its premium feel. The overall design maintains the FZ series’ sharp profile while appearing more extensive and imposing, appealing to many riders who appreciate a sporty aesthetic combined with practical features.
COMFORT
Comfort is a significant aspect of the Yamaha FZ-S FI Ver 3.0. However, it has received mixed reviews in this area. Thanks to its wide handlebar and neutral-set footpegs, the bike offers an upright riding posture, which is ideal for long rides and daily commutes. The seating ergonomics are designed to provide a comfortable experience for both the rider and the pillion, with a commodious single-piece seat.
However, it’s worth noting that the seat cushioning is firmer, which may not be comfortable for longer rides. The suspension setup, comprising telescopic front forks and a preload-adjustable rear mono-shock, is described as stiff, making the ride less comfortable on rough roads or over potholes. Despite these drawbacks, the bike’s overall design and ergonomics aim to provide a relaxed riding experience for the average commuter.
BUILD QUALITY AND ERGONOMICS
Yamaha has maintained its reputation for solid build quality with the FZ-S FI Ver 3.0. The bike features a lightweight yet sturdy chassis, providing excellent stability and handling. The overall dimensions, including a seat height of 790 mm and a kerb weight of 135 kg, are well-proportioned to accommodate a wide range of riders.The ergonomics of the FZ-S FI Ver 3.0 are designed for comfort, featuring a well-padded seat and an upright riding posture. This configuration reduces rider fatigue during extended periods of riding, making it suitable for both daily commutes and longer journeys.
COLOUR OPTIONS AND VARIANTS
The Yamaha FZ-S FI Ver 3.0 has three colour options and a single variant.
- Metallic Grey
- Majesty Red
- Dark Knight
The Dark Knight colour option is slightly more expensive, having ₹1,000 more than other options.
VALUE FOR MONEY
The FZ-S FI price is ₹ 1,22,900 (ex-showroom), it competes with models like the Honda X-Blade and Bajaj Pulsar NS160. The Yamaha FZ-S FI Ver 3.0 stands out with its LED lights, digital instrument cluster, and Bluetooth connectivity, which add to its modern appeal. It’s a 149cc, air-cooled, single-cylinder engine that produces 12.4 PS of power and 13.3 Nm of torque and offers smooth performance and fuel efficiency.The single-channel ABS is a significant safety feature in this segment, and the bike’s ergonomics and suspension setup provide a comfortable riding experience for daily commutes. The bike’s ergonomics and suspension setup offer a comfortable riding experience for daily commutes. Known for its commendable mileage, it is economical for daily use. While it is priced slightly higher than some competitors, the additional features and Yamaha’s brand reliability justify the cost for many buyers. It particularly appeals to those prioritising style, safety, and comfort over raw power.
VERDICT
The Yamaha FZ-S FI Ver 3.0 is a solid motorcycle designed for urban riders who value style, comfort, and reliability. Its aggressive look and modern features make it a strong choice in India’s entry-level sports bike market. While it may not excel in high-speed performance or ultra-soft ride quality, it offers a balanced and enjoyable experience for daily commuting.With good fuel efficiency, dependable performance, and Yamaha’s extensive service network, it presents a compelling value. Its competitive pricing and feature set enhance its appeal, especially for young riders and urban commuters who prioritise style and practicality.
Potential buyers should consider their riding preferences and comfort needs before deciding. Despite minor drawbacks, the Yamaha FZ-S FI Ver 3.0 remains a top contender, maintaining the FZ series’ reputation for sporty design and reliable performance.
PROS
- Stylish Design: The bike’s aggressive styling and modern features make it stand out in its segment.
- Comfortable Ride: The ergonomic design and effective suspension system ensure a comfortable ride for most users.
- Reliability: Yamaha is known for producing reliable vehicles less likely to leave users stranded.
- Service Network: Yamaha has a widespread service network, making it easier for users to find service centres even in remote areas.
- Fuel Efficiency: The FZ-S FI Ver 3.0 is known for its good fuel efficiency, a critical factor for Indian buyers
- Value for Money: Offers a good mix of features and performance at a competitive price.
CONS
- Limited Power: While suitable for city rides, the bike may lack the power for high-speed highway cruising.
- Fibre Quality: Some users have reported issues with the quality of the fibre components, which can be prone to scratches and damage.
- Firm Seat: The seat cushioning is firmer, which may not be comfortable for longer rides.
- Stiff Suspension: The suspension setup is described as stiff, which can make the ride less comfortable on rough roads.
- Availability of Spare Parts: The availability of spare parts outside official service centres can sometimes be challenging.
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About Yamaha Motorcycles in India
Yamaha motorcycles in the Indian market have been part of strategic partnerships, iconic models, and continuous innovation. However, our journey is not just about products, but also about the riders who make our motorcycles come alive. It has been marked by strategic alliances, iconic product launches, and a constant focus on innovation and customer engagement. The Yamaha bike’s cost range is designed to cater to various riders, starting from ₹83,091 for entry-level models and going up to ₹4,65,267 for premium options in India.
Yamaha’s journey in India began in 1985 with the legendary RD350, and it has since evolved into a diverse portfolio of scooters and motorcycles. The company’s future in India is promising, with ambitious plans to expand its market share, introduce high-capacity models, and enhance its manufacturing and dealership network.
By focusing on premium positioning, technological advancements, and targeted marketing campaigns, Yamaha is well-positioned to strengthen its presence in the competitive Indian two-wheeler market. As Yamaha continues to “Rev Your Heart” with its blend of performance, style, and innovation, it remains a significant player in shaping the future of India’s motorcycle industry.
Timeline of Yamaha Motorcycles in India
1985: Yamaha Motorcycles Market Entry in India
Yamaha’s entry into the Indian motorcycle market in 1985 was a significant milestone in the country’s two-wheeler industry. This entry was made possible through a strategic alliance with Escorts Motors Limited, which played a crucial role in establishing Yamaha’s initial foothold in the competitive Indian market. Yamaha’s experience in India serves as a case study in international market entry, highlighting the importance of strategic partnerships, local market adaptation, and long-term commitment to achieving success in emerging markets.
Key Model Launches
- RD350 (1983-2009): Known as the “Road Burner,” the RD350 was one of Yamaha’s first offerings in India. Due to its raw power and aggressive styling, it quickly gained a cult following and set a high bar for performance in its segment.
- RX100 (1985-1996): This lightweight, two-stroke motorcycle became a cultural icon. Its affordability, speed, cost/price, and ease of maintenance made the RX100 model extremely popular among young riders compared to other Yamaha bikes, and it symbolized freedom and rebellion.
1990s: yamaha motorcycles Establishing a Footprint in India
Manufacturing Milestones
- 1999: Yamaha’s Surajpur factory in Uttar Pradesh achieved its first major production milestone, reaching the one-million-unit mark. This achievement underscored the growing demand for Yamaha motorcycles in India.
2000s: Expansion and Diversification Of Yamaha motorcycles in India
Manufacturing Expansion
- Yamaha continued to strengthen its manufacturing capabilities, with the Surajpur and Faridabad plants playing crucial roles in production.
Market Challenges
- Following the Asian financial crisis, Yamaha’s market share declined, holding only 4% of the market. This period highlighted the challenges Yamaha faced in maintaining its position in the competitive Indian market.
2010s: Renewed Focus and Growth in Yamaha motorcycles in India
Key Milestones and Launches
- 2012: Yamaha reached the five-million-unit production milestone, a testament to its growing presence in India.
- 2012: Launch of the Ray scooter, marking Yamaha’s entry into the Indian scooter segment.
- 2015: Inauguration of the Chennai plant in Tamil Nadu, representing a significant expansion of Yamaha’s manufacturing capabilities in India.
- 2016: Celebration of one million scooters produced in India, highlighting the success of Yamaha’s diversification into the scooter segment.
- 2019: Yamaha achieved the ten-million-unit production milestone, with the FZS-FI Version 3.0 being the ten-millionth unit.
Strategic Initiatives
- “The Call of the Blue” Campaign: Launched in 2018, this flagship campaign aimed to reinforce Yamaha’s premium positioning in the Indian market, targeting young motorcycle enthusiasts.
- Blue Square Showrooms: Introduce premium dealerships to enhance the brand experience and showcase Yamaha’s exclusive range of products.
Product Portfolio Expansion
- Introduction of the FZ series, which gained popularity for its design and performance.
- The launch of the Fascino scooter significantly contributed to Yamaha’s sales in the scooter segment. It offered a cost-effective option compared to other Yamaha bikes, which ranged from ₹83,091 to ₹97,509 in India.
2020s: Current Status and Future Outlook
Current Market Position
- As of 2023, Yamaha held a 14.8% market share in the Indian two-wheeler market, with sales of 430,000 units. This represents a significant increase from the 3.6% market share and 522,000 units sold in 2021.
Future Plans and Strategies
- Market Share Expansion: Yamaha aims to increase its market share from 3.8% to 10% by 2027, focusing on higher-capacity motorbikes and targeting first-time and young buyers in urban and semi-urban areas.
- Product Development: Plans to introduce new models with higher capacities to cater to the growing demand for performance-oriented products.
- Manufacturing and Exports: Consider setting up a new factory to support growth plans and increase exports to new markets in Europe and Japan.
- Dealership Expansion: Plans to add 255 new Blue Square showrooms to the existing 300 dealerships, enhancing the premium customer experience.
- Technological Advancements: Incorporating features like side stand engine cut-off switches and stop-start systems to enhance safety and fuel efficiency.
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