Though 150cc bikes find it difficult to outperform the 125cc Fazer, the bike lags behind the fuel economy of its other 125cc rivals
Yamaha has just launched the Fazer. A 125cc bike that commands great respect in the Yamaha family.
Fazer is associated with big-capacity bikes like the 600cc Fazer FZ6, but the Indian Fazer doesn’t come close to this big bike. In terms of dimensions, the Indian Fazer is smaller, structured on a wheelbase of 1300mm, it is however different and highly distinctive.
The first dose of distinction comes in the form of the twin-headlamp fairing, which seems to have been inspired by a dragonfly. This is in keeping with the current styling trend in international circles and the Fazer should get the credit for getting the styling statement to India.
Lower down is a 150mm diameter drum brake that reminds one of the 180mm diadrum brake unit of the good old Yamaha RD350. Behind the fairing, sheltered by the tinted glass is the instrument console. The two pods of the instrument console include a speedometre and a tachometre. There is no fuel gauge and the warning lamps are located in the tacho.
Further behind is a smoothly contoured tank with air scoops on either side. The scoops nicely merge with the tank recesses even as the tank flows down into the side panels. The bubbled side panels flow backwards to surround the tail lamp console ? a single unit that contains the tail lamp as well as the trafficators.
Protecting the taillight is an aluminium grab rail that doubles up as a luggage carrier. A well-contoured silencer rises to the tune of the panels. The overall styling of the Fazer is a shade understated. Park it in any parking lot and it is tough to lose the Fazer in the crowd.
A close look at the engine and the external architecture of the lower end looks similar to that of the Yamaha YBX of yesteryear. However, underneath the skin there are numerous changes. A fresh air induction system enables the engine to meet 2005 emission norms.
A 3D ignition map in association with a throttle position sensor located close to the carburetor takes into account the amount of throttle travel and alters the ignition timing accordingly. Breathing through a constant-vacuum Mikuni carburetor, the single-cylinder, four-stroke unit of the Fazer pumps out a healthy 10.8bhp at 7, 500rpm and -1.06kgm of peak torque.
A balancer shaft linked to the crankshaft is claimed to enhance the refinement and on the refinement count, the Fazer does score good points. The shifts of the four-speed gearbox (with one down-three up shift pattern) are smooth and progressive. Through every cog, the engine feels eager. This adds a sporty element to the ride.
Power starts to trickle in from low down and continues to build up as the revs mount. A strong mid-range is where all the juice is. So, get the engine to rev in the mid-range and the result is an amazing performance than can make life tough for a Pulsar 150 or a Fiero F2 rider.
So good is the performance and acceleration of the Fazer that many more powerful bikes will find it hard to keep up. Also, if 150cc bikes can find the Fazer difficult to handle there is hardly any point talking about the Fazer’s 125cc competitors. But there is a point worthy of mention and it is about them having an upper hand in the area of efficiency. The Fazer lags behind most of its 125cc competitors in terms of fuel efficiency.
Not bothered about efficiency or all those worldly worries, adding to the sporty element of the Fazer are its ergonomics. The riding position is comfortable, even if the handlebar is set a bit low. The seat is well-cushioned, and long rides can be fun. Handling is high up the scale and it is possible to throw the bike around or aim at the apex of a tight sweeper. But, make a mistake and the Fazer is much less likely to forgive than the Victor GLX or Freedom Prima.
A bit on the expensive side, the Fazer is ? especially in comparison to the competition. Also, the Fazer buyer does not get a fuel gauge or a disc brake even as an option. A model with such gadgets and more is expected but the question is when? Until that is answered, the Fazer seems a bike that secretly aims at the young and adventurous, given its distinctively sporty yet understated styling, terrific performance, and comforts.
Thus, those who bother less about value-for-money, efficiency and things to that effect will like the Fazer for its looks, performance and refinement. The quality of plastics is good and the fit and finish among the best in its class. The paint job is top quality and the same goes for the chrome.
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