Yamaha FZ8 (2010–2015)
The Yamaha FZ8 is a middleweight naked and sport-touring motorcycle introduced in 2010 as the successor to the FZ6 Fazer. It bridged the gap between the entry-level FZ6 and the high-performance FZ1. With its 779 cc inline-four engine, the FZ8 delivered smooth power, refined handling, and everyday comfort for riders seeking a balanced all-rounder.
General Information
- Manufacturer: Yamaha Motor Company
- Model: FZ8 / FZ8 Fazer (faired version)
- Production years: 2010 – 2015
- Class: Naked / Sport-touring motorcycle
- Predecessor: Yamaha FZ6 Fazer
- Successor: Yamaha MT-09 (spiritually)
- Assembly: Japan
Engine & Performance
- Engine type: 779 cc inline 4-cylinder, DOHC, 16-valve
- Cooling: Liquid-cooled
- Power output: 106 hp (78 kW) @ 10 000 rpm
- Torque: 82 Nm @ 8 000 rpm
- Fuel system: Electronic fuel injection (EFI)
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Final drive: Chain
- Top speed: Around 230 km/h
- 0–100 km/h: ~3.2 s
Chassis, Suspension & Brakes
- Frame: Cast-aluminum diamond frame
- Front suspension: 43 mm inverted forks (non-adjustable)
- Rear suspension: Monoshock with preload adjustability
- Front brakes: Dual 310 mm discs with 4-piston calipers
- Rear brake: Single 267 mm disc
- ABS: Optional (standard on later versions)
Dimensions & Weight
- Wheelbase: 1 460 mm
- Length: 2 140 mm
- Width: 770 mm
- Height: 1 065 mm (FZ8) / 1 215 mm (Fazer version)
- Seat height: 815 mm
- Fuel tank capacity: 17 liters
- Wet weight: 211 kg (naked) / 216 kg (Fazer)
Design & Features
- Body style: Naked (FZ8) or half-faired sport-touring (FZ8 Fazer)
- Exhaust: Compact underbelly silencer for centralized mass
- Instrumentation: LCD display with digital speedometer, analog tachometer, and fuel gauge
- Lighting: Dual headlights (Fazer version with fairing)
- Ergonomics: Neutral upright riding position for comfort and control
- Fuel range: Approx. 250–300 km per tank
Overview & Character
The Yamaha FZ8 offered an ideal middle ground between the FZ6 and FZ1. It combined smooth torque delivery with strong mid-range power, making it flexible in daily riding and spirited backroad use. The engine was derived from the FZ1’s 998 cc motor with a shorter stroke, tuned for real-world performance rather than top-end power. The FZ8 Fazer variant added a fairing for better wind protection, enhancing touring capability.
Pros & Cons
- + Strong mid-range torque and smooth power delivery
- + Comfortable and neutral riding ergonomics
- + Solid build quality and Yamaha reliability
- + Good all-round performance for commuting and touring
- – Limited adjustability in suspension
- – Slightly heavy compared to naked sport rivals
- – Engine lacks the top-end rush of true sportbikes
