The Triumph Street Triple is almost 90 lb (40 kg) lighter, which has a 675 cc TRIPLE engine, putting out almost the same hp and torque.. The Speed Triple, which is a 1050 cc triple-cylinder engine, weighs 50 lb (23 kg) less, and has considerably more power (133 bhp and 82 lb per ft). Sorry, Japan. Britain wins again with their three-cylinder engine..
@bowen92arrow you do realize that this isnt meant to be a balls out sports bike, right? a japanese liter supersport usually have well over 150hp. this is meant to be a more relaxed version.
@pepene93 Yes, but the Speed and Street are hooligans (streetfighters).. Which is (are) relaxed versions.. The Daytona is Triumph's middleweight sportbike. I'm just saying, it's an ugly Japanese piece of crap..
best bike review i have watched so far keep it up...!!! Good video shooting, i like the part where the bicycle slowly pass by and then FZ8 speed across.
I really like the style of this bike. I'm at a point where I want to make the transition from riding a sport bike to maybe a cruiser; however, my dilemma is that I’m hooked on the look of the sport bikes. In other words, I would like a sporty looking bike with the comfort of a cruiser (especially for long distance riding). Would this bike offer the best of both worlds in my situation? Thanks.
@pepene93 That’s cool, thank you for the feedback that really put things into perspective for me. I'll probably just settle down with a nice cruiser. Thanks again.
@80sHitz there are sport bikes out there that are not all that sporty. the ninja 500, for example. i have one. its a sport bike, but its quite comfortable. theyre also dirt cheap and reliable. you might want to consider one. there are a lot of choices out there
@pepene93 Thank you for sharing that bit of info. I was not aware that the ninja 500 was comfortable. I'll definitely consider it because I've heard from many people now that it's a very reliable and affordable bike as you also pointed out. Thanks a lot.
Hi, I'm a new rider I was lining up for the R6 ... But than my uncle, who has loads of experience in bikes, told me to get the XJ6 F instead. So I did.... But now, I'm missing the beauty of the R6, but hopefully that'll go away when I can start riding it when the wheater gets better :p
Having owned a Street Triple R, I can't imagine wanting to buy one of these. Sure it's a nice bike and all...but there are bikes that do everything better.
Well, except maybe start every day. Stupid British electrics.
@KingCast65 Curious you mention the city, I found the STR was ideal in San Francisco. Light, linear power, good brakes, good visibility (no fairing). I can imagine a 650R is good too but the STR was pretty sweet.
@aluisious Well there's two things to that: One, while the STR will run up real hard when you spool it up a bit, the 955i just has so much power that you can't wring it out like you could the 650R. That and the seating position, I have risers but still your bike and the 650R have better seating position and ergos for city battle.
@aluisious BTW I had one of the broken crankshaft ones (at 16K), and also have replaced a stater and rectifier at like 20K miles, or 22K miles on the replacement engine from a SP3. Not cool. Watch the videos cut paste Google:
08 JULY 2011
KingCast buyer's guide to the Triumph Sprint 955i and other Hinckley Triples.
@SIXGHz It is sexy when you see it on the street that's for certain. And in some ways I like the sound of the Benellis more than Triumph, they sound a bit higher-pitched and more urgent.
@Apoc897 I know. As I told the guy above you it is sexy when you see it on the street that's for certain. And in some ways I like the sound of the Benellis more than Triumph, they sound a bit higher-pitched and more urgent.
Good review, you should work for MCN and help them do a better job. You raise lots of good points, and we can hear and understand you loud and clear. Thanks for this and greetings from ... Belgium!
Trying hard to figure out why someone would go out and buy the FZ8 when they could go out and get a Street Triple R, with adjustable suspension and save themselves a good few thousand into the bargain...
@hipsabad Not sure where my head was at when I posted that tbh, must've looked at the wrong bike tbh... The FZ8 is cheaper than the Street Triple 'R' here too. In between the prices of the base Street and the 'R' actually. My bad!
@YarekBalear No bads, we're all just rapping here. I had an FZed 750 '86 loved it. And 20 years before that, an RD 350B the fucking Holy Grail except for the RZ 350. And considered the FZ6 but bought the 650R, could have gone either way with no regrets. And this bike it a complete winner, it can do it all as long as you don't desire much wind protection. I'm sure the folks at laminar lip have something to help out a bit.
For the price of the FZ8, which isn't "budget" to me, they may as well have added adjustable suspension, especially up front. I've also read other reviews that state that 5th and 6th gears are quite tall for relaxed cruising, and due to this the bike suffers in acceleration.
Despite the few concerns, I'd own one in a heartbeat. I'm a fan of 750cc naked bikes, and to me 750cc is all the displacement you need for an inline 4.
I may be a new rider but this is my bike of choice, the people that can't show restraint shouldn't get a bike like this though. (and I'm smart enough/required to take classes. lol)
@corey8084 It's not just about restraint. It's about how well you can control the bike. Quick question: What do you do if your rear slides out mid turn? How do you deal with a tank slapper? What is your course of action if you realize you're coming into a turn too fast?
If you're still thinking about it while reading this sentence, YOU'RE too slow for a fast bike.
note that I also mentioned that I would be taking classes. I will take them before I get the bike. so I'm not going to be uneducated when I go get it.
Im so getting one of these, and not only that but i laughed when he said this rear and end and these indicators are now good because i love that in a new bike when u get a new bike theres nothing worse than buying it.... riding it... then parking it in the garage with not to do other that polish it, these gay indicator will deffinatly give me some thing to do after i buy this ill be ordering fansy leds and home making a tail tidy kit like no other! Very VERY cool bike and hard on that wont quit.
As for the pegs scraping my guess is that he doesnt weight 160 lbs...so pegs might be a few mm lower then for others..
I scrapped my pegs first time yesterday and I was pushing it pretty hard. Unless your doing track days, this is a none issue even for sport riding on public roads.
Love the bike, just slightly more leg room would have been nice, other then that it's just awesome.
This comment has received too many negative votesshow
I like how you are promoting bigger bikes for squids now. Not only are they stupid "slicing through traffic" but now they think they can get a faster bike. And here in America it is Z not Zed.
@ritter188 Agreed in terms of new riders, 250-400cc is optimal, but for those bound and determined for big displacement in that more is better mode, this is "tame enough" for bragging rights, without being as lethal as a full on 1000cc Superbike.
@onewheeldrive I had an XJ6 to start with, has 600cc but "only" 78hp, easy to handle, considerably stronger than any 250-400 but no psychopathic throttle profile, a 600 that works fine for beginners
@onewheeldrive I agree a 100%, That the 250 to 400 is best. Maybe some older 500cc bikes are more then enough for the new riders. Even then they can be a hand full for most. Newbies. I go with the less is best school of thought for learning how to ride. That's one areas that needs more motorcycles being made. Just my 2 cents. Best, yl
@onewheeldrive I started with a 600cc 78hp XJ6(in america fz6?) and that thing was perfectly fine due to the lower hp and fz8 power development, a linear one and not the psychopathy one from the r1/r6
@ritter188 I got sv1000s for my first bike and few years later I am still alive and i didnt ride slow :). In my opinion if you have some brain you can ride/drive anything, but if someone is an idiot they will kill them self on 250cc.
@hateutubepolicy Except plenty of "intelligent" people die on motorcycles.. and age transcends intellect.
Most people would do better with a smaller displacement bike as their starter bike, plenty however would do fine with more power, given the truism that no motorcycle will do anything you don't first tell it to. But in the spur of the moment one makes mistakes, the mistakes will often be more manageable on a 250 than a 650 or above.
Thanks for the outstanding review. I love the nakeds, but I sold the Kawi Z1000 because it was too thirsty. The FZ6 was a bit too docile - so it was banished to Craigslist. This FZ8 slots nicely between the two - and should work out quite nicely.
I have owned a 2009 FZ1 and loved it . there was a couple of issues that drove me crazy. GAS mileage for one. I barely breached 100 miles before the dash would start screaming at me, Completely dry by 125. Second was the high rpms.If you want power than prepare for living at above 7500rpms. Sometimes fun mostly annoying.3rd was the fazer fairing,I always longed for the truly naked european look. I here the FZ8 addresses all these issues. I am chomping at the bit to get one.
Like the way you guys do reviews. The FZ8 looks nice enough, but non-adjustable front suspension is a crap, since rider, road conditions and even temperature affect suspension feel. Nice bike -- I ride a 1st gen FZ1 -- but there are nicer nakeds out there.
so shld i get an fz1 or fz8? im afraid that the fz8 will be insufficient in terms of power. but in terms of mileage, fz1 sucks. i feel fz8 has better fuel consumption, hence its better for touring. kawasaki concourse 14 i considering too.
@slspg Thanks! In reality a lot of work goes into these, and press bikes are scarce due to the downturn, but I'll turn out a few more of these this year.
I knew you were Canadian, only we say "Canadian Tire" and "Zee" in the same sentence. I was surprised to hear you say "Canada Tire" - that's why I made that comment.
More on topic, you are a bigger guy, what would you prefer (looks don't count), the FZ8 or FZ1 - I want an FZ1n (make it look european/streetfighty) because I want a sporty bike with more of an upright/touring position and 2-up ability, but I like the way the FZ8 looks. I had a 2000 VFR - how would this compare power/touring wise?
is it easy to bear with the wind while riding at 100-120 km/h? I don't really like the look of the fazer 8, but the fz8 looks just awesome. That's why I consider it for my next bike but I wonder about the wind protection.
@jobro666 That's likely a function of your height. We didn't find the airflow intrusive, but had good weather for testing. Had it been rainy and cold it would be a different story. I didn't find the airflow intrusive at 6'2", but the protection is minimal at best.
I'd pop off to a dealer for a test ride to get a measure of it.
Awesome review!... I really want to know how the FZ8 compares to the new (in North America at least) Honda CB1000R. Its $2500 US more expensive... and Im wondering is it worth the extra cash?
A shootout perhaps?... (and while your at it... throw in a Duc Streetfighter if you can jajajaa)
Lets be honest, your talking about how budget the bikes suspension looks, but yet you never mentioned the price, Yamaha's lists the FZ8 at 8 grand, thats a great price for a great sporty commuter bike, but i like the mention of a better road bike, i ride an 08 ZX6R and i love it but i want a more comfortable street bike! good review and thanks!
It's great bike. Very responsive, one in Sep 10. Decided to install a set of 30 lit Hepco Becker panniers it looks ad perform great. gives 20km per lit of Grade 95 fuel.
Someone give that guy a drink of water and a hat before he dies from heat exhaustion. You bastards! Good review and nice footage, though :) I'd be inclined to get this bike if it wasn't the same price as the clearance prices of 2010 GSXR 600's and 750's...
Like me, you seem pretty tall, and I'm sure the bike is perfectly comfortable, but I'm noticing a lot of the "monkey humping a football" look, which would steer me towards a larger framed bike. I love the idea of it though, they're really putting a lot of effort into making these real world bikes appealing. SV650's and GSX650F's are kinda ugly.
What was political? He made some minor social commentary but nothing you wouldn't expect from any review. If its objectivity you want go read a spec sheet. And you watched it so apparently you take your bike reviews like this too.
As a prospective rider who works at a yamaha/suzuki dealer, this is definitely going to be my first bike...it's beautiful..considering i'm not looking to go 300 km per hour or take a turn like a professional racer
They have xj6's for beginners now. They're forgiving and detuned. The fz6 is actually a nuts bike. I have an fz6n and scare the crap outta myself often. It's hard to keep the nose down under full acceleration...even over 100km/h. I would never want a child of mine learning on that thing. This fz8 seems like a great second bike, after learning on an xj.
The only issue with that is that most bikes are in that range. I purchased my 2009 zx-14 for 12,500 and my 2007 fz6 for 4,500. I love both bikes for differant reasons the fz6 I like best for the faxt it has just the right amount for power for the bike in 90% of the situations it is in and at $4,500 it was a good buy. I like the zx-14 for its way to much power and fun on the interstates. But with the fz8 in the price range of other bikes, I don't know any way that is my thought.
I will agree. I looked and the 2011f z8 looks like the 2010 fz1 and looks to have many of its parts. Im not saying anything bad about the new fz8 and it most likely is a good machine. It is just my opinion the their is a need for a 600 ish intery level bike such as the now old fz6 but at a cost comperable to the performance. I found the fz8 in Canada for 10,450 MSRP. That is not an intery level price at all. as long as the bike is upgraded it is worth it.
I still believe the fz8 is to close to the fz1 yamaha needs to keep an intery level 600 like to old fz6. new riders are looking for something to learn to ride on and have fun and many will be detured by an 800 cc bike. caseinpoint the ninja 500 only reason to by it is to learn how to ride before spending real money on a 600r or bigger bike. i think the 8 replacing the 6 is to bold a move and leaving to big of a gap for intery level riders.
@runions79 Realistically I think it was a cost saving move on Yamaha's part. They are a company that sells toys in all their facets. No one needs a Yamaha boat, bike, skidoo or piano. Retooling the FZ1 into the FZ8 saved a lot of development money in comparison to a from scratch FZ6 replacement.
Beyond that I agree, it is a very bold move. The bike is very user friendly though which diminishes the intimidation factor a bit.
@runions79 The FZR is their new entry. I think the problem is the still non adjustable suspension poor leg grip. An 800 should be a 2nd bike in most cases... this is too cheap to be 2nd bike. As for 8 vs 6, good move, street bikes need torque, not high rpm that needs to be in the right gear at all times. Bet this bike needs lowered slightly in front just like fz6 to maintain takeoff control (excess drop compromises braking) Im not seeing what I wanted to return to the FZ line next purchase.
I don't know. I own a 07 fz6 from the states with a new cam tuning and exaust to acheave a woping 99.3 rwhp. but know you can buy a 110 hp fz8 or a 135 hp fz1, come on those bikes are too close to eachother. Also why can't a fz get front dampening.
Guess I'm too practical for this. When bikes are getting close to 10K and the economy is not improving. at 12:1 compression you will need something more than mid grade.. Doesn't seem to be the daily runner then, regardless of wind protection. I want to have my cake and eat it too :)
@dv8tion242 With a few accessories it probably could be a daily runner, but that's not really the FZ8's mandate as I read it (there's the Fazer8 to help with that). This is newer rider friendlier alternate to the sport bike in my mind, and as such it measures up nicely. I'm big on cake and eating, so it think the next review will cover the bike I've actually bought for my own.
would 9500 be a reasonable offer i live in chicago, il and was planning on paying in cash
every1wasanoob 1 day ago
The Triumph Street Triple is almost 90 lb (40 kg) lighter, which has a 675 cc TRIPLE engine, putting out almost the same hp and torque.. The Speed Triple, which is a 1050 cc triple-cylinder engine, weighs 50 lb (23 kg) less, and has considerably more power (133 bhp and 82 lb per ft). Sorry, Japan. Britain wins again with their three-cylinder engine..
bowen92arrow 1 week ago
@bowen92arrow you do realize that this isnt meant to be a balls out sports bike, right? a japanese liter supersport usually have well over 150hp. this is meant to be a more relaxed version.
pepene93 1 week ago
@pepene93 Yes, but the Speed and Street are hooligans (streetfighters).. Which is (are) relaxed versions.. The Daytona is Triumph's middleweight sportbike. I'm just saying, it's an ugly Japanese piece of crap..
bowen92arrow 1 week ago
It's FZ8 not FZED8. eh?
BrodekDHE 2 weeks ago
best bike review i have watched so far keep it up...!!! Good video shooting, i like the part where the bicycle slowly pass by and then FZ8 speed across.
fookiefication 2 weeks ago
I really like the style of this bike. I'm at a point where I want to make the transition from riding a sport bike to maybe a cruiser; however, my dilemma is that I’m hooked on the look of the sport bikes. In other words, I would like a sporty looking bike with the comfort of a cruiser (especially for long distance riding). Would this bike offer the best of both worlds in my situation? Thanks.
80sHitz 2 weeks ago
@80sHitz it has little to no wind protection. i wouldnt choose it as a long distance ride
pepene93 2 weeks ago
@pepene93 That’s cool, thank you for the feedback that really put things into perspective for me. I'll probably just settle down with a nice cruiser. Thanks again.
80sHitz 1 week ago
@80sHitz there are sport bikes out there that are not all that sporty. the ninja 500, for example. i have one. its a sport bike, but its quite comfortable. theyre also dirt cheap and reliable. you might want to consider one. there are a lot of choices out there
pepene93 1 week ago
@pepene93 Thank you for sharing that bit of info. I was not aware that the ninja 500 was comfortable. I'll definitely consider it because I've heard from many people now that it's a very reliable and affordable bike as you also pointed out. Thanks a lot.
80sHitz 1 week ago
this is a GREAT review, good job man
hondaaccourd5 3 weeks ago
Would love to hear this thing through some real pipes...
Looks like a solid backroad pillion...Do want.
MikeW259 3 weeks ago
ive been riding on the road for 2yrs now and thinking of getting one of these bikes would you say the bike is ok for a 1st big bike ?
bobsterbrown 1 month ago
Got a FZ8 2011 and it's a good nakedbike xD... shame it has no suspention that is adjustable 'stock'... good vid.
dchustl3r 1 month ago
that's some wicked sunburn you go there.
chasezas 1 month ago
Hi, I'm a new rider I was lining up for the R6 ... But than my uncle, who has loads of experience in bikes, told me to get the XJ6 F instead. So I did.... But now, I'm missing the beauty of the R6, but hopefully that'll go away when I can start riding it when the wheater gets better :p
blackbirdbe 2 months ago
Having owned a Street Triple R, I can't imagine wanting to buy one of these. Sure it's a nice bike and all...but there are bikes that do everything better.
Well, except maybe start every day. Stupid British electrics.
aluisious 2 months ago
@aluisious My 955i has had its share of maladies I'll say that. But I love the triple, except in the city (Boston) the 650R was superb.
KingCast65 1 month ago
@KingCast65 Curious you mention the city, I found the STR was ideal in San Francisco. Light, linear power, good brakes, good visibility (no fairing). I can imagine a 650R is good too but the STR was pretty sweet.
aluisious 1 month ago
@aluisious Well there's two things to that: One, while the STR will run up real hard when you spool it up a bit, the 955i just has so much power that you can't wring it out like you could the 650R. That and the seating position, I have risers but still your bike and the 650R have better seating position and ergos for city battle.
Peace.
KingCast65 1 month ago
@aluisious BTW I had one of the broken crankshaft ones (at 16K), and also have replaced a stater and rectifier at like 20K miles, or 22K miles on the replacement engine from a SP3. Not cool. Watch the videos cut paste Google:
08 JULY 2011
KingCast buyer's guide to the Triumph Sprint 955i and other Hinckley Triples.
KingCast65 1 month ago
I would give my right nut to own that machine.
SIXGHz 2 months ago
@SIXGHz It is sexy when you see it on the street that's for certain. And in some ways I like the sound of the Benellis more than Triumph, they sound a bit higher-pitched and more urgent.
KingCast65 1 month ago
I am sexually aroused by this bike.
Apoc897 2 months ago
@Apoc897 I know. As I told the guy above you it is sexy when you see it on the street that's for certain. And in some ways I like the sound of the Benellis more than Triumph, they sound a bit higher-pitched and more urgent.
KingCast65 1 month ago
This has been flagged as spam show
Good review, you should work for MCN and help them do a better job. You raise lots of good points, and we can hear and understand you loud and clear. Thanks for this and greetings from ... Belgium!
etychon 3 months ago
Comment removed
etychon 3 months ago
I was waiting for this guy to say bacon strips.
colourit 3 months ago
I'm thinking of financing one next summer once I get a little more seasoned with my Ninja 250.
Liist 4 months ago
Trying hard to figure out why someone would go out and buy the FZ8 when they could go out and get a Street Triple R, with adjustable suspension and save themselves a good few thousand into the bargain...
YarekBalear 5 months ago
@YarekBalear In Canada, where this review originates, a Triple R is more than FZ8. Triumph = $11,200, Yamaha = $10,500
hipsabad 3 months ago
@hipsabad Not sure where my head was at when I posted that tbh, must've looked at the wrong bike tbh... The FZ8 is cheaper than the Street Triple 'R' here too. In between the prices of the base Street and the 'R' actually. My bad!
YarekBalear 3 months ago
@YarekBalear No bads, we're all just rapping here. I had an FZed 750 '86 loved it. And 20 years before that, an RD 350B the fucking Holy Grail except for the RZ 350. And considered the FZ6 but bought the 650R, could have gone either way with no regrets. And this bike it a complete winner, it can do it all as long as you don't desire much wind protection. I'm sure the folks at laminar lip have something to help out a bit.
KingCast65 1 month ago
ne ho appena comprata una!!!! bianca.....
poppornopop 5 months ago
Hey, I loved your review of the FZ8! Can you do me a favor and tell me your thoughts as to how this compares to a Ducati Monster 696?
irrik777 5 months ago
I see a guy riding one around my work. I quite like it. Looks kind of evil. I'd ride that.
TheSuperMotoHooligan 6 months ago
For the price of the FZ8, which isn't "budget" to me, they may as well have added adjustable suspension, especially up front. I've also read other reviews that state that 5th and 6th gears are quite tall for relaxed cruising, and due to this the bike suffers in acceleration.
Despite the few concerns, I'd own one in a heartbeat. I'm a fan of 750cc naked bikes, and to me 750cc is all the displacement you need for an inline 4.
GPz84 6 months ago
check it, 2011 fz8- newfoundland
ckielley32 6 months ago
I may be a new rider but this is my bike of choice, the people that can't show restraint shouldn't get a bike like this though. (and I'm smart enough/required to take classes. lol)
corey8084 7 months ago
@corey8084 It's not just about restraint. It's about how well you can control the bike. Quick question: What do you do if your rear slides out mid turn? How do you deal with a tank slapper? What is your course of action if you realize you're coming into a turn too fast?
If you're still thinking about it while reading this sentence, YOU'RE too slow for a fast bike.
biohazardArt 7 months ago
@biohazardArt
note that I also mentioned that I would be taking classes. I will take them before I get the bike. so I'm not going to be uneducated when I go get it.
corey8084 7 months ago
Im so getting one of these, and not only that but i laughed when he said this rear and end and these indicators are now good because i love that in a new bike when u get a new bike theres nothing worse than buying it.... riding it... then parking it in the garage with not to do other that polish it, these gay indicator will deffinatly give me some thing to do after i buy this ill be ordering fansy leds and home making a tail tidy kit like no other! Very VERY cool bike and hard on that wont quit.
Moosehung666 7 months ago
No new rider should get this bike. Period.
weekendpartier 7 months ago
cool vid and cool driving dude!
RudyVII7 8 months ago
Dear Santa...
Itouchhelp91 8 months ago
Kawasaki z750r looks better , but the engine more beast than z750r here
kokoshoko 8 months ago
Best motorcycle review I've seen so far. Key difference: you're not a complete idiot. Cheers from NL
hotshot56371 8 months ago 22
@hotshot56371 Wait, no, I ride bikes so I lay claim to periodic bouts of idiocy ;)
onewheeldrive 8 months ago 3
This bike is perfect for me. I've never riden a bike before and I plan on riding this summer. How low can I drop this? I'm short. I'm only 5'6.
merts487 9 months ago
Can you do a comparison for 1000cc naked bike? Japanese vs Italian vs British
daraland1 9 months ago
As for the pegs scraping my guess is that he doesnt weight 160 lbs...so pegs might be a few mm lower then for others..
I scrapped my pegs first time yesterday and I was pushing it pretty hard. Unless your doing track days, this is a none issue even for sport riding on public roads.
Love the bike, just slightly more leg room would have been nice, other then that it's just awesome.
Speedytrip 9 months ago 3
Good review. Personally didn't know anything about the 8. Now I do. This covered pretty much what I wanted to know.
Cheers from AUS
Shredz81 9 months ago
Bigger burgers - yes
bigger bikes - hell yes!
bigger women - no no no
Snipza 9 months ago
Thats more than enough power. What fuckin planet are you from?
industrialkhaos 9 months ago
This comment has received too many negative votes show
I like how you are promoting bigger bikes for squids now. Not only are they stupid "slicing through traffic" but now they think they can get a faster bike. And here in America it is Z not Zed.
ritter188 10 months ago
@ritter188 I'm Canadian, we're a Zed nation.
onewheeldrive 10 months ago 38
@onewheeldrive I didn't know that, you do have proper English. touche to you, but lets hope new riders don't go out and buy this bike.
ritter188 10 months ago
@ritter188 Agreed in terms of new riders, 250-400cc is optimal, but for those bound and determined for big displacement in that more is better mode, this is "tame enough" for bragging rights, without being as lethal as a full on 1000cc Superbike.
onewheeldrive 10 months ago 10
@onewheeldrive I had an XJ6 to start with, has 600cc but "only" 78hp, easy to handle, considerably stronger than any 250-400 but no psychopathic throttle profile, a 600 that works fine for beginners
MutsuKazuma 10 months ago
@onewheeldrive I agree a 100%, That the 250 to 400 is best. Maybe some older 500cc bikes are more then enough for the new riders. Even then they can be a hand full for most. Newbies. I go with the less is best school of thought for learning how to ride. That's one areas that needs more motorcycles being made. Just my 2 cents. Best, yl
ylism 8 months ago
@onewheeldrive I started with a 600cc 78hp XJ6(in america fz6?) and that thing was perfectly fine due to the lower hp and fz8 power development, a linear one and not the psychopathy one from the r1/r6
MutsuKazuma 2 months ago
@ritter188 lol sorry but im probly getting this one, ive been thinking about it for a while and today i kinda made up my mind.
RudyVII7 8 months ago
@onewheeldrive i wish we said zed
psw1994 1 month ago
@ritter188 I got sv1000s for my first bike and few years later I am still alive and i didnt ride slow :). In my opinion if you have some brain you can ride/drive anything, but if someone is an idiot they will kill them self on 250cc.
hateutubepolicy 9 months ago
@hateutubepolicy Except plenty of "intelligent" people die on motorcycles.. and age transcends intellect.
Most people would do better with a smaller displacement bike as their starter bike, plenty however would do fine with more power, given the truism that no motorcycle will do anything you don't first tell it to. But in the spur of the moment one makes mistakes, the mistakes will often be more manageable on a 250 than a 650 or above.
SunShawnSean 9 months ago
@ritter188 I do agree with your sentiments. The Z is Z ,or a Zu lu, Just depends to whom your talking with.
ylism 4 months ago
This is by far the best review.... 8 just became the new 6... absolutely delicious !
gurveersingh 10 months ago
were can u buy the clothes hew wearing??
kennethproductios 10 months ago
lol at suspension quality gauge!!
HydeMyJekyll 10 months ago
very nice bike....think i might get one
lurchipoo 10 months ago
amei!!!
borboletinha211 10 months ago
1:24 XDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDDD
saw2451 10 months ago
We've got the great pleasure of stocking Yamaha FZ8 at our shop and we have to say it is an amazing bike!
TINKLERSMOTORCYCLES 10 months ago
Nice looking bike and a good review, thanks.
BioZombie81 11 months ago
Thanks for the outstanding review. I love the nakeds, but I sold the Kawi Z1000 because it was too thirsty. The FZ6 was a bit too docile - so it was banished to Craigslist. This FZ8 slots nicely between the two - and should work out quite nicely.
thewatcherM4 11 months ago
I have owned a 2009 FZ1 and loved it . there was a couple of issues that drove me crazy. GAS mileage for one. I barely breached 100 miles before the dash would start screaming at me, Completely dry by 125. Second was the high rpms.If you want power than prepare for living at above 7500rpms. Sometimes fun mostly annoying.3rd was the fazer fairing,I always longed for the truly naked european look. I here the FZ8 addresses all these issues. I am chomping at the bit to get one.
TheThruxtonman 11 months ago
Try to avoid facing the sun when talking, you were struggling with the light and squinting :) Great review. Thank you.
RavenRof 1 year ago
@RavenRof Noted, though it was more about keeping the light on the bike.
onewheeldrive 11 months ago
@KiLLaBYTe1 that's actually how it's pronounced. Americans say it wrong
soul111smasher 1 year ago
why does he pronounce the "z" in fz8 weird?
KiLLaBYTe1 1 year ago
This was one of the most realistic reviews I've ever seem. Well done.
teresabowers2 1 year ago
Like the way you guys do reviews. The FZ8 looks nice enough, but non-adjustable front suspension is a crap, since rider, road conditions and even temperature affect suspension feel. Nice bike -- I ride a 1st gen FZ1 -- but there are nicer nakeds out there.
Rhunyen 1 year ago
I want this bike!!
erikmoua 1 year ago
so shld i get an fz1 or fz8? im afraid that the fz8 will be insufficient in terms of power. but in terms of mileage, fz1 sucks. i feel fz8 has better fuel consumption, hence its better for touring. kawasaki concourse 14 i considering too.
flukez 1 year ago
Neil...you have the best job in the world, keep up the good work
slspg 1 year ago
@slspg Thanks! In reality a lot of work goes into these, and press bikes are scarce due to the downturn, but I'll turn out a few more of these this year.
onewheeldrive 1 year ago
I really like FZ8, but I prefer Fazer version! Have you tried Fazer as well ?
TheMotoCraze 1 year ago
@TheMotoCraze I haven't I'm afraid. We were lucky to get Yamaha to ship us the one bike.
onewheeldrive 1 year ago
you say 'about' funny like :D
steady2wheels 1 year ago
110 bhp suitable for novice to intermediate riders?
ericplloyd 1 year ago
110 bhp sut
ericplloyd 1 year ago
1:50 random dude NOT on a badass motorcycle, instead, a bicycle
Catalyst2Destruction 1 year ago
Nice review. But honestly, for 90% of the riding we all do in the real world ANY bike would do...including scooters.
TheToekutter 1 year ago
I knew you were Canadian, only we say "Canadian Tire" and "Zee" in the same sentence. I was surprised to hear you say "Canada Tire" - that's why I made that comment.
More on topic, you are a bigger guy, what would you prefer (looks don't count), the FZ8 or FZ1 - I want an FZ1n (make it look european/streetfighty) because I want a sporty bike with more of an upright/touring position and 2-up ability, but I like the way the FZ8 looks. I had a 2000 VFR - how would this compare power/touring wise?
jessejessejesse3 1 year ago
Canada Tire? Is this guy trying to pretend he's Canadian?
jessejessejesse3 1 year ago
@jessejessejesse3 I'm most definitely Canadian, born and raised in the Cariboo.
onewheeldrive 1 year ago
@onewheeldrive Not only are you from Canada, you are Canada! awesome review!
minja714 11 months ago
@jessejessejesse3 In russia, they born and raise you!
minja714 1 year ago
is it easy to bear with the wind while riding at 100-120 km/h? I don't really like the look of the fazer 8, but the fz8 looks just awesome. That's why I consider it for my next bike but I wonder about the wind protection.
jobro666 1 year ago
@jobro666 That's likely a function of your height. We didn't find the airflow intrusive, but had good weather for testing. Had it been rainy and cold it would be a different story. I didn't find the airflow intrusive at 6'2", but the protection is minimal at best.
I'd pop off to a dealer for a test ride to get a measure of it.
onewheeldrive 1 year ago
@onewheeldrive Well I'm 5'8'' so maybe it's gonna be fine
jobro666 1 year ago
@jobro666
like he said, naked bikes offer practically no wind protection.
And if the fz8 is anything like the fz6, wind will be kicking you around.
chunnkygoat 1 year ago
Cool Review ! Nicely done.
gurveersingh 1 year ago
Awesome review!... I really want to know how the FZ8 compares to the new (in North America at least) Honda CB1000R. Its $2500 US more expensive... and Im wondering is it worth the extra cash?
A shootout perhaps?... (and while your at it... throw in a Duc Streetfighter if you can jajajaa)
TopGear420 1 year ago
"Does it make expresso?" Awesome xD
Repulse1988 1 year ago
Thats a beautiful bike.
bigbad1000do7a 1 year ago
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Sting6200 1 year ago
Lets be honest, your talking about how budget the bikes suspension looks, but yet you never mentioned the price, Yamaha's lists the FZ8 at 8 grand, thats a great price for a great sporty commuter bike, but i like the mention of a better road bike, i ride an 08 ZX6R and i love it but i want a more comfortable street bike! good review and thanks!
cowmilky 1 year ago
It's great bike. Very responsive, one in Sep 10. Decided to install a set of 30 lit Hepco Becker panniers it looks ad perform great. gives 20km per lit of Grade 95 fuel.
pdgb101548 1 year ago
I used to have a Kawasaki Z750. I think this might be my next.
ChiefsFan581 1 year ago
Decent review. What's the difference between this and the Fazer8, besides the fairing?
TheReapersSon 1 year ago
I love my 2007 FZ6 but i think i found a new one. i am more than sold on getting one of these bikes. there so sick!
skierdude75 1 year ago
Someone give that guy a drink of water and a hat before he dies from heat exhaustion. You bastards! Good review and nice footage, though :) I'd be inclined to get this bike if it wasn't the same price as the clearance prices of 2010 GSXR 600's and 750's...
tfhorth 1 year ago
Best review ever.
ellomirza 1 year ago
Yamaha has a new bike? *gasp* *grunt*
launchmusicc 1 year ago
Like me, you seem pretty tall, and I'm sure the bike is perfectly comfortable, but I'm noticing a lot of the "monkey humping a football" look, which would steer me towards a larger framed bike. I love the idea of it though, they're really putting a lot of effort into making these real world bikes appealing. SV650's and GSX650F's are kinda ugly.
xplorwest 1 year ago
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TheMrThreeDog 1 year ago
Does this bike have a shift light or gear indicator?
196219801760 1 year ago
I'll take my bike reviews with out the political commentary. Thank you.
LOKI3232 1 year ago 5
@LOKI3232 That's fine, plenty of other sources out there. Bye.
onewheeldrive 1 year ago 24
@LOKI3232
What was political? He made some minor social commentary but nothing you wouldn't expect from any review. If its objectivity you want go read a spec sheet. And you watched it so apparently you take your bike reviews like this too.
mccthug 1 year ago
As a prospective rider who works at a yamaha/suzuki dealer, this is definitely going to be my first bike...it's beautiful..considering i'm not looking to go 300 km per hour or take a turn like a professional racer
subaru1313 1 year ago
Good Video! From Australia.
greenangryman 1 year ago
They have xj6's for beginners now. They're forgiving and detuned. The fz6 is actually a nuts bike. I have an fz6n and scare the crap outta myself often. It's hard to keep the nose down under full acceleration...even over 100km/h. I would never want a child of mine learning on that thing. This fz8 seems like a great second bike, after learning on an xj.
mwdfinchfuckyou 1 year ago
The only issue with that is that most bikes are in that range. I purchased my 2009 zx-14 for 12,500 and my 2007 fz6 for 4,500. I love both bikes for differant reasons the fz6 I like best for the faxt it has just the right amount for power for the bike in 90% of the situations it is in and at $4,500 it was a good buy. I like the zx-14 for its way to much power and fun on the interstates. But with the fz8 in the price range of other bikes, I don't know any way that is my thought.
runions79 1 year ago
I will agree. I looked and the 2011f z8 looks like the 2010 fz1 and looks to have many of its parts. Im not saying anything bad about the new fz8 and it most likely is a good machine. It is just my opinion the their is a need for a 600 ish intery level bike such as the now old fz6 but at a cost comperable to the performance. I found the fz8 in Canada for 10,450 MSRP. That is not an intery level price at all. as long as the bike is upgraded it is worth it.
runions79 1 year ago
I still believe the fz8 is to close to the fz1 yamaha needs to keep an intery level 600 like to old fz6. new riders are looking for something to learn to ride on and have fun and many will be detured by an 800 cc bike. caseinpoint the ninja 500 only reason to by it is to learn how to ride before spending real money on a 600r or bigger bike. i think the 8 replacing the 6 is to bold a move and leaving to big of a gap for intery level riders.
runions79 1 year ago
@runions79 Realistically I think it was a cost saving move on Yamaha's part. They are a company that sells toys in all their facets. No one needs a Yamaha boat, bike, skidoo or piano. Retooling the FZ1 into the FZ8 saved a lot of development money in comparison to a from scratch FZ6 replacement.
Beyond that I agree, it is a very bold move. The bike is very user friendly though which diminishes the intimidation factor a bit.
onewheeldrive 1 year ago
@onewheeldrive And there still is the xj6 diversion for new riders.
alvarengaadilson 1 year ago
@runions79 yeah and the ninja 500 is gg-gone
thefreem35 1 year ago
@runions79 The FZR is their new entry. I think the problem is the still non adjustable suspension poor leg grip. An 800 should be a 2nd bike in most cases... this is too cheap to be 2nd bike. As for 8 vs 6, good move, street bikes need torque, not high rpm that needs to be in the right gear at all times. Bet this bike needs lowered slightly in front just like fz6 to maintain takeoff control (excess drop compromises braking) Im not seeing what I wanted to return to the FZ line next purchase.
cougar32v 1 year ago
I don't know. I own a 07 fz6 from the states with a new cam tuning and exaust to acheave a woping 99.3 rwhp. but know you can buy a 110 hp fz8 or a 135 hp fz1, come on those bikes are too close to eachother. Also why can't a fz get front dampening.
runions79 1 year ago
@runions79 I agree they are too close. I wouldn't look as the FZ8 as a bike to step up to from the FZ6, but as a replacement in the line for the FZ6.
onewheeldrive 1 year ago
Great review...as a fellow vancouverite I appreciate it even more.
goozbaghali 1 year ago 2
@goozbaghali Yes, or as we call the area, "Our Secret Test Tack". ;)
onewheeldrive 1 year ago 2
excellent quality, thank you.
razen0999 1 year ago
great review!
rocketshellsinc 1 year ago
Good review of the bike and analysis of market position.
Moosepiesandwich 1 year ago
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Moosepiesandwich 1 year ago
That's one of the best bike reviews I've seen in a while. MCN, MotoUSA etc take note! Great job guys!
dbauernf 1 year ago
Guess I'm too practical for this. When bikes are getting close to 10K and the economy is not improving. at 12:1 compression you will need something more than mid grade.. Doesn't seem to be the daily runner then, regardless of wind protection. I want to have my cake and eat it too :)
dv8tion242 1 year ago
@dv8tion242 With a few accessories it probably could be a daily runner, but that's not really the FZ8's mandate as I read it (there's the Fazer8 to help with that). This is newer rider friendlier alternate to the sport bike in my mind, and as such it measures up nicely. I'm big on cake and eating, so it think the next review will cover the bike I've actually bought for my own.
onewheeldrive 1 year ago
Great job guys!
187Premises 1 year ago