We recently compared features and technical specifications of older FZ model with newly launched FZ & FZ-S FI version 2.0, time to compare the upgraded Yamaha 150cc bike with rest of competition in its segment.
Prime rivals include Bajaj Pulsar 150, Honda CB Trigger, Hero Xtreme and TVS Apache RTR 160, which also have been tried and tested over many years. Like Yamaha FZ VER2.0, contenders have also received graphic updates and feature additions from time to time.
Yamaha FZ & FZ-S FI version 2.0 looks very youthful, muscular and capable among the lot. It also looks most heavy due to its beefy appeal, but did you know FZ is the lightest in segment? Weighs 132kg, that is 5 kg less than next lightest motorcycle Honda CB Trigger and TVS Apache RTR 160, both weighing 137kg. Heaviest is Hero Xtreme measuring 146kg after Bajaj Pulsar 150 at 144kg.
TVS Apache RTR 160 best suits shorter and lighter rider. With least wheelbase of 1,300 mm, Apache is good for wriggling your way through dense city traffic. FZ v2.0 shares longest wheelbase figure with Honda CB Trigger (1,330mm). FZ has advantage of being lighter and equipping mono shock to match with RTR’s agility. Pulsar, Apache and Xtreme feature dual shock absorbers at the rear. All bikes have regularly oriented telescopic front forks.
Speed breakers, potholes and surprises on road are easily taken care of by Yamaha FZ & FZ-S version 2.0, thanks to stoutest tires of all and well tuned dampers. Honda CB Trigger has highest ground clearance of 175mm against lowest 145mm of Hero Xtreme and next shortest 160mm of Yamaha FZ v2.0; giving Trigger the benefit of riding over larger obstacles without getting scraped. Pulsar 150 and RTR 160 stand average with 165mm.
Ride quality is a tough battle between Yamaha FZ & FZ-S FI, Honda CB Trigger and Hero Xtreme. Bajaj Pulsar is a tad less smooth and TVS Apache RTR 160 is known for its untamed power delivery and vibration. Latter is not the best for long distance rides, whereas Yamaha FZ ranks top owing to relaxing riding position. Others are just fine.
As far as engine power output is concerned, Yamaha FZ FI version 2.0 reads lowest with down-tuned 13.1 PS from 14 PS in older FZ model. Peak torque is now average among competition with 12.8 Nm, which is also reduced from 13.6 Nm in older bike. Interestingly, Yamaha claims FZ FI’s engine to offer class leading acceleration reminding us of the bike’s lightness. Most powerful by stats is TVS Apache RTR 160 with 15.5 PS @ 8,500 rpm and peak torque is highest as well generating 13.1 Nm @ 4,000 rpm.
Yamaha FZ & FZ-S VER2.0 stands out being the only bike featuring Fuel Injection system. The Japanese motorcycle manufacturer claims 14% increase in mileage compared to old FZ, also faster 0-100 sprint. Despite riding on biggest tires in segment, Yamaha FZ V2.0 does not come with disc brake at rear. Bajaj Pulsar also offers only drum brake to stop the driving wheel. Honda CB Trigger, Hero Xtreme and TVS Apache RTR 160 has rear disc brake available as option.
Other feature considered to be attractive and important in 150cc segment street bike is instrument panel. Yamaha FZ version 2.0 and Honda CB Trigger are only ones to offer full digital meter console, while others do have digital equipment, excluding tachometer.
Final, most influential deciding factor is price. Yamaha announced launch price of new FZ FI version 2.0 as Rs. 76,250 and FZ-S FI version 2.0 as Rs. Rs. 78,250. All others are sizeably less expensive with price of TVS Apache RTR 160 @ Rs. 68,590, Bajaj Pulsar 150 @ Rs. 67,145, Hero Xtreme @ Rs. 66,275 and Honda CB Trigger being most affordable @ Rs. 65,633, all ex-showroom Delhi.
Check out Yamaha FZ & FZ-S FI version 2.0 launch by John Abraham and picture gallery here.
