They affect both the half-faired FZ8S and the naked FZ8N which are now equipped with adjustable front and rear suspension systems that allow the rider to fine tune the chassis to suit a range of road surface and load carrying conditions.
Also new for 2013 are clear turn signal lenses, and a new muffler design that gives a quality sound and accentuates the bikes aggressive good looks. These sports machines feature a 779cc engine and all aluminium frame. The engine offers a balance of middleweight accessibility with big-bore power and instant grunt throughout the rev range.
FZ8 steers fast and effortlessly, and handles with surefooted confidence whether it's cranked right over on a tight, smooth corner or slicing its way through traffic on a congested commute. The naked FZ8 is a machine with attitude. Muscular, aggressive design gives onlookers a hint of this bike's serious intentions.
Sitting between the entry level XJ6 series and big bore FZ1s, the FZ8 is an expression of performance and quality craftsmanship designed for riders who appreciate an optimum blend of power, weight and size. With the semi-faired FZ8S, the emphasis is placed firmly on getting out there and enjoying the roads, whatever the weather.
Discover sports bike performance and handling, with the aerodynamics, wind and weather protection of a front cowl and screen. In order to arrive at the perfect power and torque spread for a mix of high performance and all-round usability, Yamaha threw out all preconceptions about engine size.
The 1000cc and 600cc categories that largely divide the market are imposed by racing regulations, not road riding considerations. Many riders find 600cc supersport engines to be hard work on the open road and 1000cc superbike engines to be overkill. Yamaha's engineers selected a 779cc engine displacement to provide the perfect balance.
It's fuel injected, and uses both a throttle valve and an electronically controlled sub throttle valve to provide additional control over intake airflow volume. The four-valve cylinder head configuration helps the FZ8-series engine produce in excess of 60kW at 10,000rpm, and a generous 82Nm of torque at 8000rpm.
The FZ8-series features an engine that is a stressed member in an all aluminium frame. The 2013 FZ8s are available now in two colour schemes per model, reasonably priced at $12,990 for the naked ‘N’ model and $13,990 for the ‘S’ model.