Yamaha FZ-X vs FZ: Differences Explained

While we were expecting the XSR155 to be the first neo-retro offering from Yamaha for India, the Japanese brand had some other plans and brought us the India-specific FZ-X, an all-new motorcycle that aims to inject some life into the once-famous FZ lineup. To achieve it, the FZ-X does many things differently from the FZ Fi V3. Let’s find out what they are:

Fresh Aesthetics

Indians love old-school looks. That’s half the reason why we’re so fond of the XSR155, and Yamaha has listened to the public. The Yamaha FZ-X borrows many design cues from the XSR155, thus differentiating itself from the FZ lineup. Elements like the teardrop tank, round headlamp, belly pan, and the flat tuck-and-roll seat are all reminiscent of the XSR and are things we’ve never witnessed on a bike bearing the FZ badge. The headlamp, in particular, is pretty futuristic, uncommon for a small FZ. Even the rear end stands out thanks to the unconventional rectangular LED light. You also get three new shades: Metallic Blue, Matt Copper, and Matt Black.  

Overall, the FZ-X surely looks different in the FZ lineup--whether that’s a good thing or a bad thing is up to your taste.

More Features

The FZ-X’s instrument cluster may still be a negative LCD unit but it has a new layout, shows mobile alerts, and comes with Bluetooth connectivity via Yamaha’s app. Neatly tucked below the display is a USB charger. Both of these are offered as an accessory on the Yamaha FZ Fi. The FZ-X also packs LED illumination at the front and rear, while the FZ Fi’s tail unit gets a bulb. Another standout bit about the FZ-X is its dual-purpose block pattern tyres.

Get latest updates on
the automobile community

Login Now

Revised Ergonomics

Since the FZ-X takes inspiration from the XSR155, it features a taller handlebar and a slimmer fuel tank compared to the usual streetfighter-type setup on the FZs. That should result in a more upright riding posture while the extra padding should ensure more comfort during long saddle hours. Moreover, the FZ-X should feel slimmer between the legs, owing to the indents in the teardrop tank. All of this has come at the price of the seat height, though, as the new FZ-X’s seat is 20mm higher than the standard FZ.

• Royal Enfield Finally Draws the Curtains On The Classic 500

• Yamaha Launches The Minion-faced Vinoora In Vietnam

• Could The Stylish 2021 Honda CB150 Verza Compete In India?

Same Motor, Less Range

The FZ-X continues to use the same 149cc single-cylinder motor from the FZ Fi. It has been left untouched altogether and still makes 12.4PS and 13.3Nm. Figuratively, it should also return the same mileage. What has changed here is the fuel tank capacity. The FZ-X’s tank capacity is 3 litres less than the FZ Fi, meaning it’ll have less range.

A Pricey Affair

Yamaha India has priced the new FZ-X at Rs 1,16,800 (non-Bluetooth version) and Rs 1,19,800 (Bluetooth version). This makes the top model (Bluetooth version) Rs 15,100 more expensive than the FZ Fi. Now, this is a big difference but given the new retro design and the new features, it does stand out compared to its sibling. Let us know what you think of the pricing in the comments below.