We(I and my younger brother) originally wanted to buy the FZ-S but the only let-off was the extremely small pillion seat unsuitable for family usage. We definitely didn’t want a Pulsar, though we had considered an Apache 160 RTR. But again, we had some reservations about TVS reliability and decided to stick with Yamaha.
Barring the FZ-series, the next best option from Yamaha was the SZ Series(SZ-X / SZ-R) and we went for the SZ-R version(Disc+Alloys+ES) in Electric Blue shade in May 2011. On-road price came close to 64, 000.00
Initial Impressions:
* Very smooth engine. No rash noises like Pulsars. The engine purred very smoothly, almost like an Activa.
* Very smooth clutch and gearshifts
* Extremely comfortable riding position
* Very soft suspension.
* Good ride height(820mm seat height)
* Very stable - long database and heavy body add to stability.
* Very good ES. Starting is never a problem. Even in cold winters, it used to start with a single effort.
* Great Looks. Looks very distinct and stylish among the crowd of 150cc Pulsars and Hero Hondas.
* Strong build quality.
Negative Points:
* No kick starter provided. With a low battery, it’s impossible to start the bike.
* Headlamps do not align properly. High beam stares into the sky and low bean hits the face of oncoming traffic.
* Poor mileage(I am getting average of 38-40kpl).(Yes, I am cleaning my filters, I have set the mixture to a leaner setting etc etc.
* Fuel Gauge not accurate.
Overall I love the bike. The suspension is very soft and comfortable. Gives a nice, leisurely ride on highways.Top speed achieved was around 95kph(owing to my weight of~85+ kg). Engine starts vibrating badly after 90kph under my payload.