2023 Yamaha FZ-X Review: Notable Updates, But Where’s the Charm?

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Yamaha Motor India has launched the FZ-X in 2021 as a modern retro offering. Based on the tried and tested FZ platform, this bike seemed just the right product to take advantage of the modern classic body style. While sales were good, Yamaha has now had an updated FZ-X on the market in less than two years.

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Sameer Fayaz Contractor

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Updated on:
February 24, 2023 at 10:31 am

The 2023 Yamaha FZ-X gets subtle upgrades and new features to make it an even better commuter than before
The 2023 Yamaha FZ-X gets subtle upgrades and new features to make it an even better commuter than before

The 2023 Yamaha FZ-X primarily gets OBD2 compliance updates to comply with the latest government regulations, but the two-wheeler giant has also used the opportunity to bring more features. So what exactly are these features, and how much do they affect your riding experience? We headed to Jaipur, Rajasthan to find out.

Also Read: Yamaha India launches new R15 M, MT-15, FZ-S, FZ-X.details here

WATCH: 2023 Yamaha FZ X: First ride review

2023 Yamaha FZ-X – New Features

Visually, the updated Yamaha FZ-X has two subtle upgrades. The first is a new dark blue matte paint scheme with gold alloy wheels, and the second is LED indicators. That’s pretty much it. Everything else about the motorcycle remains the same, including the LED DRLs, projected lens round headlights, spherical fuel tank, folding seats and rectangular LED taillights. The practical armrests are functional but look too simple and thankfully can be removed. If you liked the design before, you’ll still love it, and if you don’t, there’s nothing you can do about it. Yamaha should take this opportunity to correct the rear three-quarters, which still look awkward on the FZ-X.

Visually, the 2023 FZ-X looks indistinguishable apart from new dark matte blue shades, gold alloys and LED indicators

Visually, the 2023 FZ-X looks indistinguishable apart from new dark matte blue shades, gold alloys and LED indicators

2023 Yamaha FZ-X – New Traction Control System (TCS)

Another major update to the FZ-X is the addition of TCS. This is now standard on 150 cc Yamaha motorcycles and brings another layer of safety. We did test the system and didn’t find it to interfere with the tarmac. In off-road conditions, the traction control unit works. The unit is fairly basic, and it does sometimes feel like overkill for a 12-horsepower motorcycle. That said, the real test will be on wet surfaces, since that’s where you need traction control more, especially if you’re a new rider. Yamaha should consider offering dual-channel ABS, but TCS is still welcome.

The Traction Control System (TCS) can be switched off. We would have liked to have opted for dual-channel ABS

The Traction Control System (TCS) can be switched off. We would have liked to have opted for dual-channel ABS

2023 Yamaha FZ-X – What’s Missing

The LCD screen on the updated FZ-X remains the same, but adds a TCS indicator and the option to completely shut down the system. But Yamaha missed the opportunity to add a gear indicator on the FZ-X. This is pretty much a standard feature in the segment these days, and given its mostly city-oriented orientation, it would be nice if the FZ-X had it too. The bike is also missing a hinged gas cap that should have been there in the first place. That said, you do have a 12-volt charging outlet.

The FZ-X is also ergonomic, maintaining a relaxed riding position. Front footpegs and wide handlebars keep you comfortable. But the wide fuel tank doesn’t give you enough room to clamp your thighs.

The 2023 Yamaha FZ-X retains the same engine and mechanicals, and the motor is tuned for efficiency rather than spiritual performance

The 2023 Yamaha FZ-X retains the same engine and mechanicals, and the motor is tuned for efficiency rather than spiritual performance

2023 Yamaha FZ-X – Performance

The FZ-X continues to use the 149 cc single-cylinder fuel-injected engine running the same sprockets as the FZS-FI. The electric motor produces 12.2 bhp at 7,250 rpm and 13.3 Nm of peak torque at 5,500 rpm, and is mated to a 5-speed gearbox. The electric motor now has an on-board diagnostic system that tests real-time emissions, which is in line with new government norms. The engine is also E20 compliant, which means it can run on a 20% ethanol blend as long as it is available on the market.

These updates do not alter the performance of the motorcycle. Essentially, the engine is largely the same, and if you liked it before, you’ll still love it. Power is concentrated in the low and midrange, and that’s where the FZ-X comes in. High end leaves you wanting more. Above 8,000 rpm, the power tapers off and there isn’t much feedback, especially on the open road. But in the city, the engine feels good, linear, and super easy to drive, and the transmission is smooth.

The FZ-X gets the lowest power figures in the segment, and it shows. The motor is clearly tuned for efficiency, which might be great for commuter buyers, what the FZ-X lacks is any excitement. Commuters don’t have to be boring, and we’ve seen a few examples of this. Yamaha seems to have forgotten this, which is sad considering the brand’s racing roots. While the motor will happily drive you around 60-70km/h in the city, the vibrations will force you to slow down above 80km/h. The vibrations were most noticeable on the handlebars and mirrors, and the bike couldn’t be driven faster than 100km/h.

The FZ-X's handling is neutral and the ride is comfortable most of the time, but the rear suspension can be stiff

The FZ-X’s handling is neutral and the ride is comfortable most of the time, but the rear suspension can be stiff

2023 Yamaha FZ-X – Handling and Ride Quality

The handling itself is neutral and gets the job done without getting you high either. The telescoping front fork and single shock in the rear are easy to ride on rough roads and are specially tuned for smooth tarmac. However, the suspension feels slightly firmer in the rear, but overall does a good job of keeping you comfortable. Dual purpose tires also have their limitations and don’t allow pushing the bike hard. They really help to handle bad roads with ease. Finally, braking performance comes from a 282mm front and 220mm rear disc that feels adequate. Feedback from the levers isn’t the sharpest, but nothing to complain about.

The Yamaha FZ-X works well in the city and is a good commuter, but there are more feature options in this segment

The Yamaha FZ-X works well in the city and is a good commuter, but there are more feature options in this segment

2023 Yamaha FZ-X – Price and verdict

Selling for ¥136k (ex-showroom), the Yamaha FZ-X sits at the top of the FZ family. It does a good job as a retro, easy-to-ride, easy-to-own motorcycle, and the latest updates add even more value. But it needs improvement. Given how much competition there really is in this segment, the FZ-X feels like a half-baked job, and for a brand known for its performance attributes, we wanted more excitement about its modern retro.

First published date: Feb 24, 2023 at 10:31 AM CST

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