The Fazer Series has always offered a more practical and comfortable version of its naked sibling – the FZ25. The Fazer 25 remains unchanged mechanically or ergonomically. So, under the skin of the Fazer 25 sits a mechanically unchanged FZ25.
On the Outside
Yamaha has ensured this bike looks well-proportioned and when looked at from afar, the Fazer 25 retains that classic faired motorcycle silhouette. The front will definitely catch your eye - the twin chin-like LED DRLs are bright and look fancy. Above these DRLs sits an MT-inspired, low LED headlamp from the FZ. Unlike on the FZ25, the headlight on the Fazer is securely held in place within the fairing. Fit and finish is excellent and very few vibrations filter through the plastics.
There are large, clear rear-view mirrors mounted on the fairing as well. The rest remains the same, spare for the colour schemes, which are specific to the Fazer. The Fazer 25 uses the same 249cc, single-cylinder, air/oil-cooled motor that puts out 20.9hp and 20Nm. The engine is mated to the same five-speed gearbox as the FZ25. You do wish there was more top-end performance however; and a sixth gear. Cruising at speeds around 80kph is relatively easy and the engine is easy to keep in the meat of its powerband.
How does it ride?
The bike is fitted with 100/80 and 140/70 section, 17-inch MRF Zappers, that offer a good amount of grip on most surfaces. Since this bike's suspension is on the firmer side, bumps and lumps at higher speeds tend to feel harsh. But, thanks to this sporty setup, riders will feel confident riding the bike around, especially on tricky ghat roads. As far as the brakes are concerned, there is a 282mm disc in the front and a 220mm disc at the rear; and they work together quite effectively. We did wish they had more bite though.
Should I buy one?
The Fazer 25 is a sporty-looking, yet comfortable and practical bike for the city. It offers more style and added wind protection over the naked FZ25. It costs an additional ₹10,000, taking the total to ₹1.28 lakh (ex-showroom, Mumbai).
