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.