FZ1 Owners...Pros/Cons

[jnappier]

I am considering an FZ1 as my next bike. I would like to hear the good and the bad about the bike from current and previous owners.

[NorthOfDallas]

you looking at new, or first gen (02-05)?

[bmwonder]

Never owned one but rode one several times. Fitted with full luggage and a top box it made a fantastic tourer. What's not to like about a detuned R1 engine in a good chassis and sensible ergonomics?

[jnappier]

you looking at new, or first gen (02-05)?

I read about some of the changes but is it really that different a bike from genI and genII?

[jredford]

I just bought one and love it. It is a 2006 with a Micron pipe and Corbin seat.

This bike has great power and handling.:rider:

[jnappier]

I just bought one and love it. It is a 2006 with a Micron pipe and Corbin seat.

This bike has great power and handling.:rider:

Comfort? Clean wind? I know the short windshield doesn't do much, maybe keep wind off your chest, but is the air on the helmet clean at freeway speeds?

[JustJ]

I've got a '02 that I recently bought. I absolutely love it. It's fast (someone else already mentioned the R1 engine) and it's comfortable, even on longer rides. I've tried the leaned-over sport bikes and they just aren't comfortable for me ... but I also don't want a cruiser because I like the speed and acceleration of a sportbike.

[ulric]

Jnap.. wht part of spring are you in?

I can let ya sit on a first gen if you want. :-)

[jnappier]

Jnap.. wht part of spring are you in?

I can let ya sit on a first gen if you want. :-)

Cypresswood, across from Smith Elementary. About 4 miles east of 45.

[bmwonder]

Personally I wouldn't hesitate. If I was in the market for a sport tourer/sensible sport bike, that would be the one. It's comfortable two-up, will carry a ton of luggage and teh best thing is the engine......it just rolls on the power at any speed or gear. The R1 motor is a really peach and bomb proof too as it has been around a few years.

[jredford]

Comfort? Clean wind? I know the short windshield doesn't do much, maybe keep wind off your chest, but is the air on the helmet clean at freeway speeds?

No problems with the wind which really surprised me. Very comfortable have put in several 500 mi days.

[Red Brown]

I am considering an FZ1 as my next bike. I would like to hear the good and the bad about the bike from current and previous owners.

I've ridden extensively both first and second generation. The first gen is carb based but is actually more comfortable in terms of ergonomics very good for long-distance riding. I road one with Ohlins suspension. It was a superb ride with ample amount of performance and power. I would opt for the first gen for this reason. Consider it a FJR on steroids!

http://gsbones.smugmug.com/photos/131482405-M.jpg

The second generation started in 2006. They had some fuel injection problems and you had to make some tweaks to resolve the throttle snatch. The 2009 FZ1 models have all the known issues resolved but the ergonomics for long-distance riding are not as good as the first gen.

The R1 like engine is superb and is time-tested.

RB

[bmcdonau]

I read about some of the changes but is it really that different a bike from genI and genII?

If you believe what's in the magazines, the frist generation had less hit at the top end, but lots of midrange grunt while the newer one has more power at the top and less midrange. Basically, You have to rev the newer engine to get the power, but there's more on tap.

[jar675]

I currently have a 01. But I don't get to ride it much. I had a 02 I took to Wyoming in July. I averaged upper forty's mpg and could go 215 miles comfortably. I preferred the wind over a goldwing was not nearly as hot. You do get heat on your right leg from the motor. The power on demand is awesome. I never had carb troubles I think if you maintain them you shouldn't have any probs. I used soft luggage but they do make hard luggage kits for them.

The bad. It likes to wheelie and goes fast!

If you want to ride a first gen your welcome to take it for a spin.

[Squeaky]

I currently have a 01. But I don't get to ride it much.

...cuz I take it as my daily commuter. With a top case on it, it's perfect for daily riding in traffic and will hold everything I need to get to work and back, go to the store for a few things, etc.

I miss riding my V-Strom in traffic though just because it looked "meaner" and people got out of my way faster. :trust:

[poser]

If you want to ride a first gen your welcome to take it for a spin.

Hmmm... :trust:

[jnappier]

If you want to ride a first gen your welcome to take it for a spin.

Thanks, maybe on the weekend we could meet and swap rides. Which of my bikes would you want to ride?

[jnappier]

I've ridden extensively both first and second generation. The first gen is carb based but is actually more comfortable in terms of ergonomics very good for long-distance riding. I road one with Ohlins suspension. It was a superb ride with ample amount of performance and power. I would opt for the first gen for this reason. Consider it a FJR on steroids!

http://gsbones.smugmug.com/photos/131482405-M.jpg

The second generation started in 2006. They had some fuel injection problems and you had to make some tweaks to resolve the throttle snatch. The 2009 FZ1 models have all the known issues resolved but the ergonomics for long-distance riding are not as good as the first gen.

The R1 like engine is superb and is time-tested.

RB

Nice response and nice bike. Thanks

[Ghost Rider]

I picked up an '09 FZ1 last month. I have owned many motorcycles, and find the Fizzy to be a better Bandit. A proverbial Wolf in Sheep's clothing. Tough to quantify, but I find the Fizzy to be a bit sharper than the Bandit. That includes being more "peaky" in the power-band, but it will pull and pull hard at about 6K RPMs. Like the Bandit, the Fizzy can be outfitted for the long haul, or as a respectable track bike. The suspension is more taught than the Bandit, and that gives me better feedback, inspiring more confidence. Gas mileage is kind of crummy, only getting into Honda Accord territory at 35 mpg. However, it has just had the first service but is not considered "broke-in" until after 1K miles. I expect to get about 42 mpg, and that is on par with my Concours 14. If I am careful I can get near 50 mpg on my daily commute, but for weekend riding at a spirited pace it is always less.

There will be others that see the Bandit as the better bike, and I would not say that they are wrong. For me I wanted a bike in the garage with respectable performance that I could take to the track and not be folded up like origami. It gave me the best option for something that would not be so narrow in focus that I would not enjoy riding it on a daily basis on the street.

[NorthOfDallas]

I've ridden extensively both first and second generation. The first gen is carb based but is actually more comfortable in terms of ergonomics very good for long-distance riding. I road one with Ohlins suspension. It was a superb ride with ample amount of performance and power. I would opt for the first gen for this reason. Consider it a FJR on steroids!
but the ergonomics for long-distance riding are not as good as the first gen.

The R1 like engine is superb and is time-tested.

RB

What he said. I get 40-ish regularly with the Dale's Holeshot Stage 2 kit, the yosh, K&N and such. I've never had fueling problems at all, but the alternator doesnt like the heated grips on 100% of the time, so I put it on a minder in the winter overnights.

The maintenance intervals are great too...26k for valves. THe only thing not really mentioned enough is the Exup maintenance - which is stupid easy.

Mine happens to eat oil. Some do, most don't. I go thru +/- 3 qts between changes, others won't use a drop.

One last point...I got my first-ever speeding ticket on a bike since 1990...ON THE FZ; believe that it like you to dig in.

[PJFZ1]

I read about some of the changes but is it really that different a bike from genI and genII?

Totally different bikes - Carbs to FI, Steel Tubular Frame to Aluminum Spar, Completely different motor, Different seating positions..

Both are great bikes, and the 2nd Gen's need a few more tuning tweaks than the first gens to run right.

[jnappier]

My ST1300 is very top heavy and difficult in slow speed manuvers. Is the FZ1 top heavy and how is it in parking lot manuvers? Thanks for all the feedback.

[Squeaky]

I don't find it to be top heavy at all. I can inch forward at nearly-stopped speeds in traffic and not really think about putting my feet down unless we are actually getting to 0 for a minute. In parking lots I instinctively put my feet down anyway, but it moves around well in tight spaces.

[haasfogle]

i had an 02 i bought new and had 47K miles on until i loaned it to a harley friend who promptly crashed the heck out of it. (fyi: front brakes are compromised when tire is not in contact with pavement. i thought everyone would have known that....)
i loved the gen1 for what it was and replaced it with a new 06 gen2.
i have had to spend a few extra $$ on the 06 to be happy with it but at 23K miles there is not another bike i would be willing to trade it in on.
i commute to work most everyday and will use it with soft luggage for two up trips. i have also done several track days on it and taken it to the drag strip once. (i have other bikes too.)
hope that helps, e-mail me if you have any specific issues or questions.
cheers, haas

[bmwonder]

[QUOTE=Ghost Rider;660068]I picked up an '09 FZ1 last month. I have owned many motorcycles, and find the Fizzy to be a better Bandit. A proverbial Wolf in Sheep's clothing. Tough to quantify, but I find the Fizzy to be a bit sharper than the Bandit. That includes being more "peaky" in the power-band, but it will pull and pull hard at about 6K RPMs. Like the Bandit, the Fizzy can be outfitted for the long haul, or as a respectable track bike. The suspension is more taught than the Bandit, and that gives me better feedback, inspiring more confidence. QUOTE]

Ditto. Having owned a Bandit and ridden the FZ1 I can agree. The Yam is a much better machine alround. It just feels like a newer motorcycle than the Bandit, sharper and more responsive. I think that build quality of the Yamaha is better too. I bought the wrong one. :-(

[LowRyter]

I thought about trading the Bandit for one, but couldn't get in red.

Deal beaker. :giveup:

Besides, I've had the Bandit for so long, done so many mods and maintenance to it, it's like family. Could never stand to part with it.

[jnappier]

Nothing but good stuff. It is looking like the FZ1 will be my next bike. If I can just convince my wife why I need to change bikes again! She says the Honda is our bike and I can't get rid of it, and I'm not quite ready to part with the V-ROD. What to do, oh bother.

[PassTheGravy]

What kind of tank range do the Gen 1 and Gen 2 FZ1's have?

[LowRyter]

Nothing but good stuff. It is looking like the FZ1 will be my next bike. If I can just convince my wife why I need to change bikes again! She says the Honda is our bike and I can't get rid of it, and I'm not quite ready to part with the V-ROD. What to do, oh bother.

Hard to see how an FZ-1 would replace an ST..........but the FZ certainly beats the Vrod in about every measure.

[haasfogle]

What kind of tank range do the Gen 1 and Gen 2 FZ1's have?

i cant recall on the gen1, but my 06 will show about 120 commuter miles and about 140 on a trip before the idiot light comes on. about 3.2 to 3.5 gallons at that point. there is supposed to be another gallon left but i have never pushed (literally) it.:rofl:
haas

[JustJ]

The Gen I has a fuel gauge (that actually works) so it makes it A LOT easier to know when to fill up. Dunno about the Gen II.

[jredford]

I thought about trading the Bandit for one, but couldn't get in red.

Deal beaker. :giveup:

Besides, I've had the Bandit for so long, done so many mods and maintenance to it, it's like family. Could never stand to part with it.

I have the red one, its faster!

[jar675]

If your thinking about getting rid of the St. Have you considered other bikes? I picked up a Tiger and I seem to like it more than the Fz. It is more capable of two up riding than the Fz. Just sayin.

But I don't think there is allot planned for Sunday evening if you want to meet up. I will have to check the other halfs schedule to be sure.

[JustJ]

If your thinking about getting rid of the St. Have you considered other bikes? I picked up a Tiger and I seem to like it more than the Fz. It is more capable of two up riding than the Fz. Just sayin.

Hmmm ... but I don't recall the FZ leaking oil. :mrgreen:

[poser]

Hmmm ... but I don't recall the FZ leaking oil. :mrgreen:

burn! :rofl:

[ulric]

If I recall, the gen 1 has a 5gal tank...and i've been getting about 32 mpg running errands (lotta stop-n-go)

[bdudemon]

Comfort? Clean wind? I know the short windshield doesn't do much, maybe keep wind off your chest, but is the air on the helmet clean at freeway speeds?

The short windshield is just the right size to be worthless. I creates a lot of helmet noise and buffeting. Mostly comparing this to a good sport bike with a clean shield setup. My best friend has this bike and I love riding it but we both agree completely on this point. Overall they are awesome bikes and they are so incredibly easy to ride I call it the super scooter. This is the easiest bike to ride out of the 5 bikes we have between us. The engine never protests in any gear and any rev range. This is the first generation FZ1 and it has the cable clutch which is so light and a joy to ride around town. Not the best bike on the highway though with the stock screen. Awesome engine. Ergonomics are great and at 6' 7" I'm comfortable on it.

[gixxerjasen]

Honestly, it all depends on what you want out of the bike. Considering your garage currently I see it being kind of hard to fit it in there. It'll be more sporty than the ST, yet not nearly as comfortable for taking on trips. It's very comfortable by sportbike standards though.

I get about 165 miles before the light comes on and that leaves me with about 40 more miles to go. I'm getting about 38 mpg on average on my Gen I. The second gen bike has a smaller tank so you'll be stopping to stretch your legs and fill up a bit more often.

As far as the windshield. You can stay with stock, or you can go with many other options. The most expensive, and what seems to be the most popular is the MRA Vario Touring screen. I don't have that one, but here's the two I do have.

This is my Cee Bailey touring screen. I use it in the winter time because I get almost ZERO airflow behind it. Not so good in the summertime though as it's so stll the air in the helmet gets hot and stale.

http://www.leanangle.com/jalbum/Vehicles/Yamaha%20FZ1/slides/IMG_1655c.jpg

In the summertime I picked up this Puig sport screen and I really like it. I wasn't sure about it at first due to the buffeting and amount of wind hitting my helmet. But all that was mainly the difference coming from the touring screen. After a full summer of commuting I don't even notice the wind anymore.

http://www.leanangle.com/jalbum/Vehicles/Yamaha%20FZ1/slides/IMG_2271.JPG

Pilot Road 2 tires will last a long time and seem to work very well on this bike.

This was my first naked sportbike with handlebars. I will NEVER go back to a fully faired sportbike with clipons for the street again. It rocks everything I've thrown at it and I can't wait to get it on the track. I'm very comfortable on the bike and I have to say, I really don't see a bike out there that would replace it for being my "do it all" bike. Maybe a Tuono, but that's money I don't have.

Every day I ride this bike, I love it a little bit more. At almost 50k miles (I've only put about 9k on there) it's not burning any oil and all maintenance has been very easy.

Here's my current daily commuter setup and it works very very well.

http://www.leanangle.com/jalbum/Vehicles/Yamaha%20FZ1/slides/IMG_2407.JPG

Any other questions, feel free to ask.

[LowRyter]

looks like there are a few red ones after all.........I especially like the white/red stripe kit. I used to own a 1981 550 Seca, white w/red and bikini fairing.

[jnappier]

If your thinking about getting rid of the St. Have you considered other bikes? I picked up a Tiger and I seem to like it more than the Fz. It is more capable of two up riding than the Fz. Just sayin.

But I don't think there is allot planned for Sunday evening if you want to meet up. I will have to check the other halfs schedule to be sure.

Just let me know when your available. You would be surprised at how much fun the V-ROD is. I would also like a Sprint ST, great looking bike.

[jnappier]

Considering your garage currently I see it being kind of hard to fit it in there.

And how do you know how big my garage is? :lol2::lol2:
You have a great looking bike! Thanks for all the feedback. I have gone thru alot of bikes in the last few years trying to figure out what I like and want to keep. It's a shame we can't rent all models and hard to get test rides even if you do test ride how much can you tell in 15 minutes.

[treybrad]

Oh I hate to even suggest it so deep in an FZ1 love-fest thread but... have you given the Suzuki Bandit 1250 any thought? Not as sporty/sharp as the Fizzer, but certainly a huge leap in the sporty direction compared to the ST1300. The two share lots of similarities...

Just food for thought.

trey

[blesk]

Oh I hate to even suggest it so deep in an FZ1 love-fest thread but.

trey

Love fest for a lovable bike! I had an 03, the comfy predecessor to the potholder-for-a-seat 06 and up. Nearly everything on this thread is spot-on. Traded the fizzy at 48K for a new Tiger - went from the best quality and reliability to the worst. Got rid of it a year later.

Still miss the g-force the FZ1 was capable of generating, more thrills than the GS I have now, and the first gen (up to 2005) were very comfy for long trips. 1st Gen FZ1s are wonderful.

[jnappier]

Oh I hate to even suggest it so deep in an FZ1 love-fest thread but... have you given the Suzuki Bandit 1250 any thought? Not as sporty/sharp as the Fizzer, but certainly a huge leap in the sporty direction compared to the ST1300. The two share lots of similarities...
Just food for thought.
trey

Absolutely, sitting on them at the dealer the Bandit is more comfy than the FZ1 but heavier and getting closer to the ST1300. I wanted lighter and fun, I also like the black motor and I have read much less gripe about the wind.

[haasfogle]

And how do you know how big my garage is? :lol2::lol2:
You have a great looking bike! Thanks for all the feedback. I have gone thru alot of bikes in the last few years trying to figure out what I like and want to keep. It's a shame we can't rent all models and hard to get test rides even if you do test ride how much can you tell in 15 minutes.


if you were closer to me i'd swap you my FZ1 for the VROD for a week.
(i think we should all be open to that type of swapping!!)
if we did i probably wouldnt have a new ducati 1098 that mostly just sits and looks pretty....
haas

[JustJ]

Traded the fizzy at 48K for a new Tiger - went from the best quality and reliability to the worst. Got rid of it a year later.
Keep that in mind when Jamey is trying to sell you on his new Tiger!

[jnappier]

if you were closer to me i'd swap you my FZ1 for the VROD for a week.
(i think we should all be open to that type of swapping!!)
if we did i probably wouldnt have a new ducati 1098 that mostly just sits and looks pretty....
haas

SugarLand isn't that far, I am open to swapping for a week or so. On Oct.1 I am going to the Hill Country on the ROD. I started a lets swap rides thread a while back but got little response. Next we can discuss that pretty ducati.:trust:

[jar675]

Keep that in mind when Jamey is trying to sell you on his new Tiger!

Just exploring the options

[bmwonder]

Enough talk! Go out and buy one. They are great.

[jar675]

Keep that in mind when Jamey is trying to sell you on his new Tiger!

Umm I like my Tiger why do you think I am offering the Fz for a test ride? :trust:

[Squeaky]

...why do you think I am offering the Fz for a test ride? :trust:

Cuz you're almost done fixing the Strom? :shrug:

[jnappier]

Enough talk! Go out and buy one. They are great. OK, I will.

[poser]

Cuz you're almost done fixing the Strom? :shrug:

ALMOST being the operative word :rofl:

BTW the strom jumps in the retention pond fairly well :eek2::lol2:

[jar675]

BTW the strom jumps in the retention pond fairly well :eek2::lol2:

If the Strom could actually get off the ground. I don't want to see what all falls off when it comes back to earth! :lol2:

[poser]

If the Strom could actually get off the ground. I don't want to see what all falls off when it comes back to earth! :lol2:

:rofl:

I can see it now, a beautiful flight and then it comes crashing to the ground and by the time you stop there's a trail of parts between you and the landing spot.

[gixxerjasen]

You have a great looking bike! Thanks!

I'd take these guys up on the bike swapping. If you were closer I'd swap rides for either the VRod or the ST. Not that you'd ever see me send money to HD, but it'd be fun to give the Rod a run for sure. :mrgreen:

If the FZ fits in what your looking to get from a bike, then there's no doubt you'll definitely love it.

[MCRyder]

This was my first naked sportbike with handlebars. I will NEVER go back to a fully faired sportbike with clipons for the street again.

Any other questions, feel free to ask.

Glad to read your feedback.

My 19 year old son was talking R1, GSXR1000, ZX-10. I steered him to an FZ, a left-over '07 (at a good deal). Just about the same engine and handling (in real world use) as the R1, and much more comfortable for everyday riding. Plus an adequate tourer. And light years more advanced than the Kawasaki Ninja 500 he cut his riding teeth on at 16. Yes I manipuated him, but what are fathers for :trust:.

I'd have bought an FZ myself (most likely the one he did), but wanted the ABS feature of my 1250.

Of course now I'll probably have to listen to the "150hp" comparisons to my 118hp Sprint and 98hp Bandit :rolleyes:.

[haasfogle]

just another bit of input:
last year i loaned a friend (who had been away from riding for over 10 years) my bike and he also borrowed a bandit. he rode a few other too.
he ended up buying a new bandit.
he reported my bike felt "manic" (his words, not mine..) compared to the suzuki. he added how the suzi felt like it had more torque down low but mine was scary fast when revved up a bit. he did add that mine felt much more nimble.
on that note he is a tall guy, i am not and have rizoma rearsets and bars making for a more cramped riding position for a tall guy.
cheers, haas

[jnappier]

he reported my bike felt "manic" (his words, not mine..)
I had a ZG1000 that I felt was manic when the rpm's were up. That is something I miss. A neighbor let me ride his ZX14 last week on a short run back home from an errand run. Not being used to the bike and not wanting to die :eek2: I took it easy. We were on the freeway running about 80 mph when he just picks the front end up and leaves me behind. I was on my ST1300. I don't want to ride like him or rather I don't have the skills to ride like him, but something more sporty would be nice.

[jnappier]

Glad to read your feedback.

My 19 year old son was talking R1, GSXR1000, ZX-10. I steered him to an FZ, a left-over '07 (at a good deal). Just about the same engine and handling (in real world use) as the R1, and much more comfortable for everyday riding. Plus an adequate tourer. And light years more advanced than the Kawasaki Ninja 500 he cut his riding teeth on at 16. Yes I manipuated him, but what are fathers for :trust:.

I'd have bought an FZ myself (most likely the one he did), but wanted the ABS feature of my 1250.

Of course now I'll probably have to listen to the "150hp" comparisons to my 118hp Sprint and 98hp Bandit :rolleyes:.

I have not checked yet but I bet there is a big insurance difference as well.

[jnappier]

Not that you'd ever see me send money to HD, but it'd be fun to give the Rod a run for sure. :mrgreen:

I purchased new a 2006 SuperGlide, put 4000 miles on it and sold it. I couldn't stand the ride. With the windshield anyway, the wind buffeting was so bad I couldn't read street signs at 70 mph. I tried different windshield heights, lower deflectors, different helmets etc. but nothing helped.

The V-Rod is a different story, with a short shield that puts the wind mid helmet I am comfortable at freeway speeds. It is a sport cruiser, counter balanced, liquid cooled, porsch designed motor. I can hit 82 in second and 110 in 3rd, thats as fast as I have taken it. I'm the Harley guy wearing Honda boots, mesh jacket and a Scorpion Crackhead full face helmet. :lol2:

[bigcomfy]

I owned a first generation Fizzer and loved it. As mentioned great ergos, tons of power, and a somewhat capapble chassis(sorry i'm spoiled and aftermarket suspension is a must on just about any bike). I've done 500 mile + days w/o an issue. 2 up riding is pretty good but not nearly as comfy as a Goldwing(which happens to be on my list of must buy bikes and i'm 30) Personally, I prefer the first generation bikes but then again I can't stand riding a sport bike on the street anymore.

You won't regret buying a Fizzer.

Martin

[mikeyyc]

You'd be doing yourself a disservice by excluding a Tuono from consideration. The fizzer is a nice ride though.

[poser]

what's the insurance cost on a fizzer?
has anyone put bar risers on one?

[gixxerjasen]

what's the insurance cost on a fizzer?
has anyone put bar risers on one?1. Depends on the coverage and the rider. :mrgreen: Basic coverage is running be somewhere just over $100 per year.
Many put the rizoma bar risers on which actually lower the bars. I flipped my stock ones around so they come back about 3/4 of an inch since I'm of a shortish stature. :rofl:

[poser]

1. Depends on the coverage and the rider. :mrgreen: Basic coverage is running be somewhere just over $100 per year.
Many put the rizoma bar risers on which actually lower the bars. I flipped my stock ones around so they come back about 3/4 of an inch since I'm of a shortish stature. :rofl:

so is it classified as a "standard" or a "sport bike"?

the risers lower the bars? :ponder:

I ask, because I'm a little on the tallish side :mrgreen:

I hope to buy a new (to me) scoot in the spring, and this one is on my radar (even more so lately)
Not sure if it'll be in the cards with the new baby here, but a great bike that falls into an affordable price range on the used market is looking pretty good. Its definately on my "short list"

[StarSapphire]

Our insurance classified the FZ1 as a sport bike, not standard, but at a higher repair "code" rate than the Ninja. With full coverage (except PIP), we're paying about 375 for the year. But, it's also a 1kcc 4-cyl bike and I think that affects the premium too.

[poser]

Our insurance classified the FZ1 as a sport bike, not standard, but at a higher repair "code" rate than the Ninja. With full coverage (except PIP), we're paying about 375 for the year. But, it's also a 1kcc 4-cyl bike and I think that affects the premium too.

that's actually not too bad though, I think I was paying about that for the save coverage on my SV650

[gixxerjasen]

Just looked it up, and it doesn't show how they have it listed. I have my insurance with progressive. It's $104 for basic + comp($100 ded) and roadside assistance.

[NorthOfDallas]

mine's $230/yr with state farm with all of the bells and whistles.

[jredford]

There are some great deals on FZ!'s out there right now.

Check out http://www.yamahafz1oa.com/forum/showthread.php?t=96578

[LowRyter]

nice bike, not red

[jnappier]

I sat on a 2007 with 5500 miles on it yesterday, had slip on and touring shield. Dealer wanted $6300. otd. Nice looking blue. I gotta find someone that lives close by that is willing to swap bikes on a few rides. I often ride thru the national forest and to Anderson. Or swap bikes for a week or 2. I really like the looks of the 2nd gen. especially the seat.

[jnappier]

SWAP Proposal......
I want to ride a 2nd gen FZ1. I will swap bikes for a day, a weekend or a week or 2.
You will have the choice of my 3 bikes or you can alternate, perhaps a different one each weekend. No beginners please, and we each respect each others bikes and ride within our limits. My bikes are secure within my garage and I have an alarm. I am 48 and put 14k miles on my bikes in the last 2 years. Any questions? Suggestions? Ideas? or Takers?

[NorthOfDallas]

Johnny, if you were in DFW and looking at first gens, then I'd gladly take you up on it. If you want to work something out, PM me your number and we can find a middle ground.

[poser]

a nice looking FZ1 popped up on craigslist today, seems like a good price...

http://houston.craigslist.org/mcy/1382576178.html

[NorthOfDallas]

a nice looking FZ1 popped up on craigslist today, seems like a good price...

http://houston.craigslist.org/mcy/1382576178.html

I'd offer him about $400 less, though.

[haasfogle]

hey johnny, you can still trade with me for a week if you want.

i have roadraced and raced MX so am not an amateur rider....
(also, i am close to 50 years old.) i'll take the V-Rod for a swap as the honda, i have ridden its cousin many times...

also, i "choose" to commute to work on a bike most everyday.
my FZ1 will be a very used example compared to most, but it is still a 2nd gen FZ1....
(it has run low 10's at the dragstrip and has done more than a half dozen trackdays.)

fyi i appreciate some of the other offered examples but lets put something in perspective:
i like exotic vehicles. i have never owned a toyota but i will compare the FZ1 to a celica supra turbo....not my pride and joy but i can put 100K miles on it (check the fz1 owners website.) and it is fun to own and will need nearly zero spent to maintain.

i am lucky, i can afford whatever i want. (my commuter cars have included new porsches and amg mercedes.)
i have owned this FZ1 for nearly 4 years and it "only" has 25Kmiles.
today, i dont see another bike i would trade mine in on. (if there was i would.)
its miles are so low (to me) because i own several vehicles.
wife calling, gotta go, let me know if you want to borrow my bike.
haas

[haasfogle]

another one last thing....
i have ridden a v-rod before.
i have owned several harley davidson bikes since new.
the last two i recently owned are from 1960 and 1948.
:mrgreen: hf

[jnappier]

Sounds great, I even like the color! This week rainy, next Thursday thru Sunday I am headed to The Hill Country for some riding and at this point plan to take the ROD. So it might have to be the week of Oct.5th. Unless this weather clears up a bit. I will ride my bike in the rain but not someone else. I sat on one at the dealer on Friday, it fits me well. I like everthing I read about it but you just don't know until you put some miles in the seat.

[haasfogle]

I like everthing I read about it but you just don't know until you put some miles in the seat.

on that note, i have two different seats for mine!
and mine is sitting in the pouring rain as i type....
(it wasnt raining when i left for work at 5:00 am.)
cheers, haas

[jnappier]

The wife and I rode 2 days in off/on rain in the Hill Country until we came to a road closed sign due to high water. We decided to return home. We went back 2 weeks later to finish what we started. We would stop and put on the rain gear, then stop and take it off and repeat. I decided to just leave mine off because I would get too hot. I will sent you a PM with my contact info so when we do get together you will have it. Thanks

[jnappier]

I have the Harley touring seat on the V-ROD and it is more comfy than the Honda seat I had gel installed. I also have the Quick remove low profile windshield and passenger backrest not shown in my pic.

[jpwdesigns]

gixxerjasen where did you get your insurance? I just paid about 1200 with progressive. that included 25000 medical, 500 deductible on comprehensive and collision. plus the liability stuff of course. Had to go with the comp and col cause its financed :doh:

[gixxerjasen]

Progressive. I dropped collision because hopefully it'll be the other guy's fault. And for what first gen FZ1's go for on the market, the extra cost of the coverage plus the deductible just wasn't worth it. If I bin it, I'll fix/replace it.

On your medical coverage, is that PIP?

[jpwdesigns]

No that's 25,000 worth of medical payments regardless of fault. Their pip option only covered like 2,500 which is basically nothing if you get jacked up, and since i don't have medical insurance....self employed you know. Seriously though that was like nearly half of the coverage cost. I'd probably drop the collision if it wasn't financed. Mine is a 2009 with only 4300 miles on it. So far I LOVE IT. twobros carbon slip on, juicebox, fender eliminator, pazzos. Wanting to do a lot more to it than the pocket book allows. I think the fly mod might be a cheap power boost though: http://copperdawg.com/Gallery.htm

By the way, you're not too far from me. Where do you ride?

[haasfogle]

i havent done the "flies" mod yet. should have done it back when i tinkered with the bike more but now i just ride it.... future mods for me will be a shock and fork work.

regarding insurance i paid cash and only keep liability on my bikes. i pay about $65 a year with gieco. (but i am old and have an excellent driving record.)

haas

[gixxerjasen]

jpw, that would be a lot of it. I have health coverage so I don't carry that option. Plus you having a 2009 I imagine has a lot to do with the comp & col as well. I'm running a 2003 so my stuff would be considerably less.

Nope, not too far from Allen, I'm in the Mesquite area. Sadly, with the new baby and lots of things going on, I only really ride to and from work at the moment. Been on a few pie runs with twtex and I used to go ride 455 when I had time.

Welcome to the site, check out the pie runs. Usually good long rides with fun roads in between and good eating when you get there. Usually folks from the DFW area get together and make them group rides so look around and hook up with some of us/them when you get a chance. There's also a weekly DFW meet and greet that I haven't managed to make it to, but you can meet some of the folks there as well.

[jpwdesigns]

Nice road that 455. There's some great short loops west of McKinney that I run through when I get a chance. Went to hill country in May and a couple of months ago went up to OK - ARK hills area which was pretty nice. But all that on the 03 Tiger 955i. Looking forward to hitting the twisties on the fazer.

Thanks for the pie runs reference. I'll check that out. I also have 2 kiddos (8 and 10) so my rides are not as often, but probably more than you with a baby! That's a life changer for sure.

[jnappier]

100HP to 150HP by pushing a couple buttons? Is it true?
I found a video on the FZ1 forum that shows how to do it.
Video; http://s259.photobucket.com/albums/hh301/DenArnold/?action=view&current=001.flv
FZ1 Forum Thread; http://www.fz1-forum.com/forum/gen-ii/651-150hp-100hp.html

[gixxerjasen]

He sounds French. I think they have to have all their bikes neutered there to 100HP. Seems likely. Mine has carbs, so no buttons for me to push.

[jnappier]

Instructions from the video: FZ1 Change from 100HP to 150HP mode.

Press an hold both the select and reset button, turn on key
the HI will flash, continue to hold for 5 seconds
displays D1 - release buttons
Press an hold both the select and reset button for 5 seconds
displays d:01 - release buttons
press reset to scroll to 63
press select quickly followed by the reset
displays d:70 - hold for 20 seconds until engine light flashes
the select toggles between solid engine light(100hp) and flashing(150hp)
turn off key to save

Is this because some of the countries where the FZ1 is imported they have a limit of 100HP? Does the US models come set to 150?

[jpwdesigns]

Hmmm. My bike seems pretty dang fast already. It must be set at 150 but I probably won't be able to resist checking this out. IF any of you texas FZ1 Gen2 riders try it post your results plz.

[Ghost Rider]

Check Marine Underwiters. They put me with a company called American Standard and I pay $413 a year for Comp and Collision for an 09 KLR and 09 FZ1. Since I have TRI-Care from the Army, I waived the P.I.P. and then upped the deductible. GEICO wanted over a grand, while Progressive wanted to "progressively" empty my wallet for $1500. So it is a bit of a gamble, as I have to go six months without making a claim with American to break even. Meaning the KLR has a Five Hundred Dollar deductible while the Fizzy has a Grand. So, the deductible would be offset by the saving in premiums after six months. Since I have more than one bike, and spend a lot of time overseas, I saw it as an acceptable risk.

[gixxerjasen]

Ghost Rider, if you can get away with it, make sure to drop that collision while you are overseas. If you are not riding it, you can't crash it, so why pay for the extra insurance? Put it back on when you get back home. Also, make sure your insurance company knows you are headed out of the country and the bikes are going into storage. If your not putting miles on them, the cost is less. We did this with my father-in-law with his car when he had his surgery on his Achilles Tendon and was out of commission for six months. Saved him quite a bit of cash during that time period.

[bigcomfy]

He sounds French. I think they have to have all their bikes neutered there to 100HP. Seems likely. Mine has carbs, so no buttons for me to push.

The French government restricts all motorcycles at 100hp:huh2:

[gixxerjasen]

That's what I thought. I remember reading about the Gixxer 1000 and thinking....that's less hp than a 600 puts out.

[shadow247]

I just have to say that I love the FZ1, if you are considering it, just ride one and I bet you will buy it!

[1 wheel peel]

Question for those who have rode both the FZ6 and FZ1.

>Are the ergonomics of the two bikes pretty much the same? Looks like from reading the specs the 1 is about thirty pounds heaver and less than an inch taller seat hieght. Does that translate into a great difference?

>Aside from the hp/tq and mpg how do the two compare? When looking at used there dosn't seem to be a huge difference in the price of the two.

>Is there any benifit from getting the six over the one?

I will be looking for a street bike for my wife before long and was consider something with an up right seating position like the FZ class.

[gixxerjasen]

You are talking 600cc vs 1000cc, so big differences in torque and mpg will be there. I sat on the two new ones and I actually found the FZ1 to be more comfortable, despite my short stature.

[jpwdesigns]

I've also recently ridden both. Ended up buying the FZ1 Gen 2. The fz6 I rode was a 2009 with 400 miles on it. If price alone was the factor i would have bought it cause it was only 4500 at a dealer! So, yes you should see price difference. Same dealer had a FZ1 2006 with 14,000 miles on it for 6500.

If you are buying it for your wife I'd go with the FZ6 cause its a smooth ride and nice handling. I preferred the FZ1. It is a flattering bike to ride and when you want to feel the power its there. If the bike is for you and you're used to a big bike with lots of torque and hp, go with the FZ1. IMHO.

[NorthOfDallas]

You are talking 600cc vs 1000cc, so big differences in torque and mpg will be there. I sat on the two new ones and I actually found the FZ1 to be more comfortable, despite my short stature.

+1. The 6 actually felt bigger to me. I'm 5'7, 175lbs

[gixxerjasen]

I'm also 5'7" and....yea, we'll just say 175lbs too. :mrgreen:

[NorthOfDallas]

I'm also 5'7" and....yea, we'll just say 175lbs too. :mrgreen:

Is your ride height stock? I've got mine lowered and added a hyperpro 650# spring in the back (to stop the sponginess of the lowering links and help 2up) so I can flat-foot it.

[1 wheel peel]

>Aside from the hp/tq and mpg how do the two compare? When looking at used there dosn't seem to be a huge difference in the price of the two..
Thanks for all the input guys. I probably did not comunicate well what I really wanted to know. I have seat time on GSXR1K's and it's little brother so yeah I know there will be the power/fuel economy difference.

Some of you did touch on my main intrest though and that is that the 1k "felt" more comfortable or that the six "felt" larger. I started out looking at the fz6 and sv600's and then looked at the specs of its larger sybling. There just did not seem to be much draw back to getting the larger bike, weight and height did not increase much.

My wife is not the type that will just twist the throttle and hold on so I'm not concerned that the performance would be to much, and yet later on she might appreciate the extra power. The FZ and the SV's are what I have been looking at mainly because wieght is less then 500 lbs, no clip on handle bars and pretty good performance.

The price diff I was refering to was on used bikes, unless I ran up on a smokin deal on a new one there are just too many great deals on used bikes right now.

[gixxerjasen]

Is your ride height stock? I've got mine lowered and added a hyperpro 650# spring in the back (to stop the sponginess of the lowering links and help 2up) so I can flat-foot it.It had lowering links on it when I got it, but I didn't like the geometry or the sponginess that you refer to. First mods I did was to put it back to stock height and flip the handlebar risers around. Yea, I can't flat foot the bike, but I've never been able to flat foot any sportbike...and certainly no dirtbike...in the past, and I've just gotten used to it. Doesn't bother me a bit. And...coming from the DRZSM, it feels much shorter. :lol2:

[jnappier]

Well it took a while. Vacation, out of town class, weather, getting new tires on my bike. But I finally got together with HaasFogle and traded rides. He gets to cruise in style on my v-rod while I ride his great sounding, heavily farkled gen II FZ1. I have only ridden it about 30 miles on and off the freeway so its a bit early to form my final opinion so far this is my likes/dislikes;

Likes:
Looks (red with tinted windshield)
power is good (2 tooth larger rear sprocket)
Light compared to my bikes this thing is very lightweight)
Wind protection mid size shield puts clean air in my face and shoulders
sound the yoshimura exhaust sounds very sweet

not sure yet:
position weight on my arms, long trip
buzzing i need gel gloves

dislikes:
I don't own one

I will add/modify my lists when I get to ride more. Hopefully this weekend will be nice weather.

[Red Brown]

not sure yet:
position weight on my arms, long trip
buzzing i need gel gloves

dislikes:
I don't own one

I will add/modify my lists when I get to ride more. Hopefully this weekend will be nice weather.

The FZ should not buzz if you are using syn oil and have the throttle bodies properly adjusted. The detuned R1 engine is very smooth.

If you still have the buzz, consider getting a PC3 and using it to smooth the throttle response. It will contribute to the silky feel when going down the road. Make sure you get the proper PC FI map for the bike and exhaust. You might also get some extra rubber throttle sleeves. As an added tip, take your bar ends off and use bar-snake in the tube to reduce vibration. The cheaper route is squirt silicone rubber in the bars, perhaps sand and or BB pellets to attenuate the sound from the bike might work also. If you still are feeling the buzz, you probably need to cut back on the amount of beers you are drinking.

Bar risers of course will relive the wrist, but being higher up will increase buffeting...so you will probably need a taller wind shield.

RB

[haasfogle]

some notes on my bike: it has aftermarket bars and risers. (rizoma) the stock items felt fine (a bit taller btw) and a touch more "rigid" (they were steel, now they are aluminum) and the only reason i upgraded was the bike was involved in a crash while on my trailer coming home from a TWS trackday.
also johnny, if you notice the grips. i use the rock hard road racing style magura grips. grab-on style foam may be more suited to you in the beginning.
my bike is well tuned but it is nearly due for a major maintenance. its at about 25K miles and cables need to be adjusted and lubed, fresh plugs, etc.

the v-rod is great! my only gripe is the highway peg sitting position and shifter access doesnt suit me well. however it is by far the nicest cruiser i have enjoyed. (2nd was a vulcan 800 classic. nice ride!) the biggest difference is the bike sitting in front of the office this morning...
i have driven various ducatis, R1's, husky super motard, KLR's, race bikes and nobody has ever asked. today the talk in the plant is who is riding the beautiful harley.

:rider:cheers, haas

[jnappier]

It's like going from a stretch limo to a porsche. Both nice in different ways.
The v-rod is certainly the looker, not a bad ride either. I am used to the forward feet controls. It would be nice if it also had mid pegs just to give a different position on long trips.

[gixxerjasen]

1. Not sure about the Gen2 but the Gen1 has mounts for highway pegs up front on the frame. Something you might consider.
2. Some folks have experienced buzzing in the bars. The former owner of my bike has wrist problems and is very sensitive to the buzzing and he went through several bikes before he got one that didn't affect him, including two FZ1's.
3. You can and probably will adjust the bar position. I flipped the risers around on my Gen1 FZ1 to move the bars back a little bit which helped, because I'm short and have short arms. Lots of customization that can be done in this area.
4. Light weight? Oh right, your comparing it to a Harley! :mrgreen: I had a DRZSM before I got mine and I thought it was a heavy tank.

[jnappier]

4. Light weight? Oh right, your comparing it to a Harley! :mrgreen: I had a DRZSM before I got mine and I thought it was a heavy tank.

Harley, Honda ST1300, kawi zg1000, kawi zzr1200. I guess I have riden mostly heavy bikes.

[gixxerjasen]

Dude, you'd LOVE an SM! It'd be like a tiny little toy! :mrgreen:

[NorthOfDallas]

1. Not sure about the Gen2 but the Gen1 has mounts for highway pegs up front on the frame. Something you might consider.
2. Some folks have experienced buzzing in the bars. The former owner of my bike has wrist problems and is very sensitive to the buzzing and he went through several bikes before he got one that didn't affect him, including two FZ1's.
3. You can and probably will adjust the bar position. I flipped the risers around on my Gen1 FZ1 to move the bars back a little bit which helped, because I'm short and have short arms. Lots of customization that can be done in this area.


1. yep, got 'em
2. Most bikes with bad vibes in the bars can be cured with sealing the holes and adding play sand inside of them. Its one of the best $3 mods out there
3. I've never thought about doing that, I may do that this weekend!

[gixxerjasen]

Flipped the bar risers the first night I had the bike. :rofl: My first mod.

[jnappier]

Test ride report
I finally got out for a ride Sunday, only 100 miles but enough for me to get a good feel for the FZ1.
I jumped on the freeway and thought I could live with this. OK wind protection, buffeting was minimal at 75-80 until I hit strong winds but what bike does good in strong wind.
Compared to what I am used to this bike feels very light, easy to ride and comfy enough.
Power is very good. The sound is awesome. I did ride a neighbors XZ14 Saturday. The XZ14 is a rocket the FZ1 is more comfy and is a jet.
I love the style and look of the FZ1. Thanks Haas :clap:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2704/4073304762_6b57450e4c.jpg

Today I rode about 30 miles to exchange bikes with Haas. I like my bike but its nite and day, its a sports car and a truck. I never really gave any thought to my bike being heavy until today. My seating position is more comfy. Conclusion is I like and want them both. :lol2:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3015/2949390901_df2bd39ab2.jpg

[haasfogle]

no problem johnny, anytime.
i thought your plan to swap bikes with someone for a week was a great one!
what better way to find out if you fit that new bike you are thinking of??
(especially when neither party has a vested interest or a bike for sale.)

i enjoyed the v-rod and it did everything a bike should do in the week i had it, but wish i could have had the time to put some miles on it on the weekend....
however riding my bike again yesterday was like going home. the FZ1 really fits me well and suits my riding style. i think the biggest plus may have been backing it out of my raceshoppe this morn and pushing it down the alley, through the gate and down the street a bit like i do everyday before i start (just a courtesy to the neighbors) my bike. maneuvering yours in that ritual took much much more effort!!:-P

one thing of note about the vsrc: self cancelling turn signals. shouldnt all bikes have that?

cheers, haas:rider: