Hence the reason they canceled it. Took too many sales away from the bigger Tour-Sport models, and the Race 600 and 1L's. These bikes are perfect. The engine is PERFECT. I have an 07, and even my friends want it, but they've spent too much in their flashy bikes to "down-grade". The only thing lacking on the bike is front suspension. That's really all that can be complained about. It isn't just a beginners bike, I still have mine and love it more today than I did when I got it. Everything else got specialized. This was THE motorcycle for the majority... but marketing got involved. A true Gem.
Good review! I've had my FZ6 2009 for 4 years now, and I'm still in love. OK, it lacks a bit of power especially for the steepest hills in Norway, 'cause you have to rev it to move, but, hey - its 600 ccm. The only ting you forgot to mention, I think, is the FZ6 timeless sexy and good looks. As a solo rider the bike is perfect.
Just picked one up for my first bike, and I love everything about it. I’m 6’7 and it’s unbelievably comfortable and controllable compared to a lot of other things I’ve looked at
The gs500f is an absolute perfect bike to start out on. You'll get a lot of good riding and good lessons from that bike and it'll probably save your ass on a few occasions. The fz6 is really for riders with some experience. It's clunky in its power delivery and drive train, has a top end that is begging to be abused, and a bit heavier which can increase the likelyhood of slow speed maneuver errors. The gs500f is a better beginner bike all around. I own an fz6 and it was not my first bike. My first bike was an 08 Ninja 250 which I rode solely for over 10yrs and that had the same top speed as the gs500f with less torque. There were a number of times that bike taught me the reality of riding without serving the shitty repercussions of what could've been from poor high speed turn approaches and inputs to low speed parking lot maneuvers where as if I were on a larger more powerful bike like the fz6 I would've dumped it or been off into a ditch or into oncoming traffic. That's a good bike. 15yrs ago I wanted a gs500f as my first bike and am just happy that the fz6 was not my first cause I can now see how some of those early mistakes would've gone way different. Clean it up, make it your own, ride it, love it, learn, and have fun with life.
Interesting, I am now considering FZS600 or FZ6 to replace my GS500 (not F). GS500 is nice but not comfortable for me, as I'm a bit tall for it, 184cm.
Just started riding and bought a 2008 model fz6 during the summer. Plenty of power for a beginner. Loving all about the bike. Thanks for a great review, its tells me I did the right choice. If an upgrade will come in some years i will proberly look into the fz1...😉
I got a gen 1 FZ1 after owning an FZ6. It's comfier, more composed leaned over and will do over 100MPH in 2nd. But the FZ6 is lighter and more nimble. My goal is to own both bikes. The FZ1 is my touring bike, the FZ6 is the pure sport bike.
I've got my 04 one for 4 years now. Works perfectly fine as an every day bike in the suburbs. It only struggles a bit on the top end but that's far over the legal limit in any case.
Owned one for 2 years. It was my first bike and it was ideal. Gets interesting around 7000rpm. Other than that its really tame. Gearbox is not the best but for the money you cant go wrong
Best purchase I have made yet. I've owned a 82 Honda GL500I, 98 Concours and now 07 FZ6. Coming from a concours to the FZ6, I was a bit apprehensive and thought I made a mistake. Instead, I do not regret it. Because I mostly commute with the occasional motocamp get-away; this fit the bill! Great review!
I had to laugh when you mentioned your wr! I currently own a wr250r and am looking to add a fz6 to my garage for the highway commute. Thanks for the video!
Im getting up there in the miles also, around 35k and I always tell myself I'm going to start taking it easy and then I ride it and that mentality goes right out the window lol. I have a lot of fun on the bike in high rpms
@2:55 ?!? I don't get you man? which version do you have the 75hp one? Cause I've had bikes for 19 years, my bike before my FZ6 was a GSXR 750. I think the low down ..mid range power is excellent on my FZ6 🤔
Yamaha made the FZ6R. Which made 75HP. Not the 98 claimed the 2004-2009 FZ6 made. I believe it was created for European license restrictions. The 2004-2009 is the full powered version. Hopefully that helps.
I'm going to look at the 1999 model later. It will be 10pm by the time I get there. The owner wants to swap it with my mk1 Bandit 600N. Let's see. I personally think its an upgrade
Have seen this bike at some great price points moving on from my 250 I think this would be a awesome bike regardless of its clunkyness it would fit me like a glove
Move to a 15t front sprocket. Change the front fork oil to 10w and check the top air pressure at the Schrader valves. If they're not holding pressure rebuild them. Road trip...yes. Still need to add seat inserts. Reliable yes. Jack of all trades yes. Torque? Do the sun 15t sprocket swap. Also, swap oit the clutch slave for one off of an mt07 as it is a half inch longer and widens your slip zone.
Hands down the best sounding motorcycle out there. I wish the US got the Naked version that Europe got. The half fairing looks so dorky in my opinion but man that sound!! I might get one as my second motorcycle
@@MyFlexinIsAProblem The MT07 is a great bike for a second bike. But its torquey. The FZ6 takes a little to get to the power. And considering the cost. You might be able to sell the MT03 and buy a nicely cared for FZ6 for about what you paid the MT for. I like the half fairing as I ride on the highway and faster roads a lot. Ill trade some practicality for looks.
@@westondifranco9313 I’ve wanted a MT07 for a long time but I think I’m set on the FZ6 now 👌 I’m coming to accept the not as cool looks for that symphony inline 4. I’m in love with the dual pipes under tail exhaust too. 😍
@@MyFlexinIsAProblem I love it. I have a scorpion slip on. And it just screams above 6000 RPM. If you want the streetfighter look there are naked conversions out there. Maybe its the sport touring dad in me. But riding above 50 MPH with a wind screen really helps haha.
I own one now since 2007 and if you don’t mind spending a little more money, you could get yourself some progressive front suspension springs from Oelins and be fine. Save travels
Just picked up a 2008 fz6. Overall pretty solid, was disappointed in the power down low. Has zero torque but still cruises really smooth. Over 10k and it makes some power. Mine has 36k miles and is in near new shape. Forks have been done over by race tech and feel great. Taller windscreen, riser adapters, aftermarket seat, wired up for heated grips, GPS, plug for heated jacket, battery tender. Also has givi racks and bags. Only bought to flip as this wouldnt be something id keep due to the low power. Speaking of the sv650, I've had two liked them a bit more than the sv. Had a 1999 and then a 2008 that was an absolute blast. Torque and handled better than the fz and was lighter. But both are great for any rider new or experienced.
I agree with everything you have said, The FZ06 is a very versatile and capable bike except in town where I don't want be in any case. What is the fuel consumption like? and do you fit a seat cushion for longer trips?.
Wish they still made sport tourers like this, they’re all way fatter than their sport/naked counterparts, opposed to an upright sport bike with a half fairing
Hey great video...I'm looking into buying a 2006 fz or a 2008 bmw f800 st...in your video you said something about BMW's could you expand please ...thanks
Hey, my advice is try very hard to ride both bikes before making a purchase. See what you like and how they feel to you. Reliability is a hot topic, but fz parts can be had cheaper than really any bmw parts. The bmw will be of higher quality, but it may not be what you'd like. Hopefully you can see for yourself what's best. Hope this helps!
Thanks for this video I'm looking at getting a 2009 FZ6 for my first bike the more I watch the more I want this bike. Wondering what the handle bar adapters you have are it looks like they make for a more up right riding position.
Not sure of the brand but yes that's exactly the purpose. They move the bars closer to you so you don't have to lean over as much. I love them. They came on the bike so I'm not sure the brand.
@@shaggy69001 No I didn't I wound up with a 2006 SV650 naked bike and love it a lot more mods available for If I had to I'd buy the SV650 over the FZ6 again. Also something to think about it Suzuki has been making the SV since 1999 so the bike is bullet proof.
@@westondifranco9313 I ended up getting a 2011 ninja 650 lol. I only got to ride a few times before it got really cold. But its enough for me as a first bike
Again, dude, I don't know what you are talking about the power is so low in the first few gears?!? what are you comparing it too man? , I changed out my forks for cartridge folks, and an Ohlins rear shock, makes a massive massive difference to her handling
"As thigh of tolerances on most parts as for example a BMW would be". Buddy, my FZ6 is the most reliable horse in my stable. It is amazingly well built. Whish I could say the same about the BMWs.
It's weird how you compare fz6 with sport bikes. Fz6 is cheaper than sport bikes, this is why you don't have adjustable suspension as on R6... This is different type of bike, for that reason you have more comfortable seating position . Also, your bike is 2006, I have 2007 (S2) and you mentioned like 17 times about trouble in town, I did not have any trouble in town ever, it is fun and nimble enough for me. Also, I don't think it is the best choice for first bike. Well, maybe, if you keep your ego at home, but this is rarely happens if you age lower than 70... As I said, mine is newer, so, maybe a bit different and in group rides is plenty power and at all range, well from 6-8 is kind of dead, but this is where you keep bike at motorway in 6 gear, so, economical... But after 10 rpm it is a lot of fun and you can keep up with 1000 in bike rides. Also, and breaks are really good too, because 2 discs, which aren't just fashion thing, just 2 discs have much better breaking power. Sorry if it hurts your confidence, but it wasn't great review, I think you just didn't ride it how it has to be ridden :)
l guess yes if u ride the bike easy and responsibly it could be a beginner bike but beginner bike with 90hp is still kinda lot tho bcs there is going to be a day when you test the top speed and limit when you are in the corner and then the crash happens. A2 and A1 bikes exist for the beginners.
inline 4 over twins all day everyday. manufacturer trying to cheap out by subrtracting 2 cylinders. more cylinders the better. smoothness all day baby. I would take this bike over a newer 2 cylinder any day of the week.
I drove a Suzuki bandit 600 2003 , same ergonomics , I drove the r6 and gsxr 600 didn’t like how it put my head forward, the bikes also weirdly felt slower lol how are the Honda cbrs ? Is it the same thing ?
I think this is one of the best street bikes for the money. It's got the spirit of the r6 in a more comfortable sport touring package.
Hence the reason they canceled it. Took too many sales away from the bigger Tour-Sport models, and the Race 600 and 1L's. These bikes are perfect. The engine is PERFECT. I have an 07, and even my friends want it, but they've spent too much in their flashy bikes to "down-grade". The only thing lacking on the bike is front suspension. That's really all that can be complained about. It isn't just a beginners bike, I still have mine and love it more today than I did when I got it. Everything else got specialized. This was THE motorcycle for the majority... but marketing got involved. A true Gem.
Buying my fz today lol can’t wait and it’s my first bike let’s goooo
Me to. Getting mine in 2 weeks
been looking at the fz6 for some time now, registered for my motorcycle license and will be buying one when the time comes
@@KAYVXN i got mine, i love it. Cant share pic but watch my tiktok.
@@Devinerhymes damn she's clean👌 and u got the best color too;)
Im super close to pay all for my fz6 . I'm excited to have it in my hands.
Good review! I've had my FZ6 2009 for 4 years now, and I'm still in love. OK, it lacks a bit of power especially for the steepest hills in Norway, 'cause you have to rev it to move, but, hey - its 600 ccm.
The only ting you forgot to mention, I think, is the FZ6 timeless sexy and good looks.
As a solo rider the bike is perfect.
Just picked one up for my first bike, and I love everything about it. I’m 6’7 and it’s unbelievably comfortable and controllable compared to a lot of other things I’ve looked at
How many miles? I'm going to look at one today with 25k on it
I jusy got my this past weekend 2005 17000
I just got my Fz1 and comfort is amazing as well, I would keep an eye out if you're looking.
6'4 here, I was curious about ergonomics thank you 🙏
The gauge cluster and the front fairing/windshield is one of the reasons why I chose the 2007+ FZ6 over the pre 2007 one. Love the bike anyway!
@SW33TR1DE why would it be faster?
This was the bike I wanted to start out on. But I stumbled across a lightly used GS500F for cheap. It's a great beginners bike as well.
I don't think you could have gone wrong with either one
These two bikes can not be compared! The Yamaha ist much better!
The gs500f is an absolute perfect bike to start out on. You'll get a lot of good riding and good lessons from that bike and it'll probably save your ass on a few occasions. The fz6 is really for riders with some experience. It's clunky in its power delivery and drive train, has a top end that is begging to be abused, and a bit heavier which can increase the likelyhood of slow speed maneuver errors.
The gs500f is a better beginner bike all around. I own an fz6 and it was not my first bike. My first bike was an 08 Ninja 250 which I rode solely for over 10yrs and that had the same top speed as the gs500f with less torque. There were a number of times that bike taught me the reality of riding without serving the shitty repercussions of what could've been from poor high speed turn approaches and inputs to low speed parking lot maneuvers where as if I were on a larger more powerful bike like the fz6 I would've dumped it or been off into a ditch or into oncoming traffic.
That's a good bike. 15yrs ago I wanted a gs500f as my first bike and am just happy that the fz6 was not my first cause I can now see how some of those early mistakes would've gone way different.
Clean it up, make it your own, ride it, love it, learn, and have fun with life.
Gs500 are legendary super economical reliable easy to ride bikes.
Interesting, I am now considering FZS600 or FZ6 to replace my GS500 (not F). GS500 is nice but not comfortable for me, as I'm a bit tall for it, 184cm.
Just started riding and bought a 2008 model fz6 during the summer. Plenty of power for a beginner. Loving all about the bike. Thanks for a great review, its tells me I did the right choice. If an upgrade will come in some years i will proberly look into the fz1...😉
I got a gen 1 FZ1 after owning an FZ6. It's comfier, more composed leaned over and will do over 100MPH in 2nd.
But the FZ6 is lighter and more nimble.
My goal is to own both bikes.
The FZ1 is my touring bike, the FZ6 is the pure sport bike.
I've got my 04 one for 4 years now. Works perfectly fine as an every day bike in the suburbs. It only struggles a bit on the top end but that's far over the legal limit in any case.
How much did you spend on it?
Owned one for 2 years. It was my first bike and it was ideal. Gets interesting around 7000rpm. Other than that its really tame. Gearbox is not the best but for the money you cant go wrong
Best purchase I have made yet. I've owned a 82 Honda GL500I, 98 Concours and now 07 FZ6. Coming from a concours to the FZ6, I was a bit apprehensive and thought I made a mistake. Instead, I do not regret it. Because I mostly commute with the occasional motocamp get-away; this fit the bill! Great review!
I had to laugh when you mentioned your wr! I currently own a wr250r and am looking to add a fz6 to my garage for the highway commute. Thanks for the video!
Top review mate.
I love the sound of the 4 cylinders engine
I’ve got an 07 fz6 44k miles still runs perfect and I am not easy on it
Im getting up there in the miles also, around 35k and I always tell myself I'm going to start taking it easy and then I ride it and that mentality goes right out the window lol. I have a lot of fun on the bike in high rpms
@2:55 ?!? I don't get you man? which version do you have the 75hp one? Cause I've had bikes for 19 years, my bike before my FZ6 was a GSXR 750. I think the low down ..mid range power is excellent on my FZ6 🤔
Yamaha made the FZ6R. Which made 75HP. Not the 98 claimed the 2004-2009 FZ6 made. I believe it was created for European license restrictions. The 2004-2009 is the full powered version. Hopefully that helps.
I'm going to look at the 1999 model later. It will be 10pm by the time I get there. The owner wants to swap it with my mk1 Bandit 600N.
Let's see. I personally think its an upgrade
I'm sold! Thank you!
Very good review. Gave me lots of important information.
Love the half faring!
Have seen this bike at some great price points moving on from my 250 I think this would be a awesome bike regardless of its clunkyness it would fit me like a glove
You mentioned the Chinese exhaust you got from eBay. Do you mind sharing a link of it here, just to have a look at it?
6:19 I made over 650 highway miles on my 2006 FZ6 in one day 😄 My legs and neck did hurt quite a bit though
Keep up the hard work! You are one of the best smaller channels :)
Thanks! I really appreciate the kind words.
Nice video, i have a 06 FZ6 fully naked bike and its awesome
Move to a 15t front sprocket.
Change the front fork oil to 10w and check the top air pressure at the Schrader valves. If they're not holding pressure rebuild them.
Road trip...yes. Still need to add seat inserts.
Reliable yes. Jack of all trades yes. Torque? Do the sun 15t sprocket swap. Also, swap oit the clutch slave for one off of an mt07 as it is a half inch longer and widens your slip zone.
Hands down the best sounding motorcycle out there. I wish the US got the Naked version that Europe got. The half fairing looks so dorky in my opinion but man that sound!! I might get one as my second motorcycle
What bike do you have now? I own one of these and may never get rid of it.
@@westondifranco9313 2020 yamaha MT03
@@MyFlexinIsAProblem The MT07 is a great bike for a second bike. But its torquey. The FZ6 takes a little to get to the power. And considering the cost. You might be able to sell the MT03 and buy a nicely cared for FZ6 for about what you paid the MT for. I like the half fairing as I ride on the highway and faster roads a lot. Ill trade some practicality for looks.
@@westondifranco9313 I’ve wanted a MT07 for a long time but I think I’m set on the FZ6 now 👌
I’m coming to accept the not as cool looks for that symphony inline 4. I’m in love with the dual pipes under tail exhaust too. 😍
@@MyFlexinIsAProblem I love it. I have a scorpion slip on. And it just screams above 6000 RPM. If you want the streetfighter look there are naked conversions out there. Maybe its the sport touring dad in me. But riding above 50 MPH with a wind screen really helps haha.
I own one now since 2007 and if you don’t mind spending a little more money, you could get yourself some progressive front suspension springs from Oelins and be fine.
Save travels
I was looking at one of these but ended up going with the BMW K1200 GT which is a sport touring bike with tons of power
Take the handle bar risers out and you'll have more confidence in the corners. I noticed a big difference when i installed mine.
I removed the risers that came with my bike and put ultra lows on it. I feel much more in control. Can really flick it around
Just picked up a 2008 fz6. Overall pretty solid, was disappointed in the power down low. Has zero torque but still cruises really smooth. Over 10k and it makes some power. Mine has 36k miles and is in near new shape. Forks have been done over by race tech and feel great. Taller windscreen, riser adapters, aftermarket seat, wired up for heated grips, GPS, plug for heated jacket, battery tender. Also has givi racks and bags. Only bought to flip as this wouldnt be something id keep due to the low power.
Speaking of the sv650, I've had two liked them a bit more than the sv. Had a 1999 and then a 2008 that was an absolute blast. Torque and handled better than the fz and was lighter. But both are great for any rider new or experienced.
Well my fz6 starts getting power around 6k and at 8k has same good kick! It has no power under 4k, but cruises well and smooth.
Great video
Can anyone tell me where to get fairings for the bike or what to look up
Where can I get the exhaust on eBay idc if it’s cheap
I agree with everything you have said, The FZ06 is a very versatile and capable bike except in town where I don't want be in any case.
What is the fuel consumption like? and do you fit a seat cushion for longer trips?.
That seat style looks so ancient now
Wish they still made sport tourers like this, they’re all way fatter than their sport/naked counterparts, opposed to an upright sport bike with a half fairing
Hey great video...I'm looking into buying a 2006 fz or a 2008 bmw f800 st...in your video you said something about BMW's could you expand please ...thanks
Ps I'll be mostly using it for commuting
Hey, my advice is try very hard to ride both bikes before making a purchase. See what you like and how they feel to you. Reliability is a hot topic, but fz parts can be had cheaper than really any bmw parts.
The bmw will be of higher quality, but it may not be what you'd like. Hopefully you can see for yourself what's best.
Hope this helps!
Thanks for this video I'm looking at getting a 2009 FZ6 for my first bike the more I watch the more I want this bike. Wondering what the handle bar adapters you have are it looks like they make for a more up right riding position.
Not sure of the brand but yes that's exactly the purpose. They move the bars closer to you so you don't have to lean over as much. I love them. They came on the bike so I'm not sure the brand.
also looking at one of these for my first, did you get one ?
@@shaggy69001 No I didn't I wound up with a 2006 SV650 naked bike and love it a lot more mods available for If I had to I'd buy the SV650 over the FZ6 again. Also something to think about it Suzuki has been making the SV since 1999 so the bike is bullet proof.
@@shaggy69001 I got one. Id be happy to answer any questions you have if you are still looking.
@@westondifranco9313 I ended up getting a 2011 ninja 650 lol. I only got to ride a few times before it got really cold. But its enough for me as a first bike
Again, dude, I don't know what you are talking about the power is so low in the first few gears?!? what are you comparing it too man? , I changed out my forks for cartridge folks, and an Ohlins rear shock, makes a massive massive difference to her handling
@Dimetri Drossos Nah man, the FZ6
They are the best bang for the buck for an inline 4. But I can’t find them for $3k. More like $5k . It’s still a great buy.
The upright position makes you a sail.
Hi
Is it a good bike to learn on?
No
Random question what protection plate did you get fot your XT?
Been a while since ordering it, but I'm 95% sure it was a moose racing skid plate.
Try the Honda Hornet 900
"As thigh of tolerances on most parts as for example a BMW would be". Buddy, my FZ6 is the most reliable horse in my stable. It is amazingly well built. Whish I could say the same about the BMWs.
This seems like Bandit competition
It's weird how you compare fz6 with sport bikes. Fz6 is cheaper than sport bikes, this is why you don't have adjustable suspension as on R6... This is different type of bike, for that reason you have more comfortable seating position . Also, your bike is 2006, I have 2007 (S2) and you mentioned like 17 times about trouble in town, I did not have any trouble in town ever, it is fun and nimble enough for me. Also, I don't think it is the best choice for first bike. Well, maybe, if you keep your ego at home, but this is rarely happens if you age lower than 70... As I said, mine is newer, so, maybe a bit different and in group rides is plenty power and at all range, well from 6-8 is kind of dead, but this is where you keep bike at motorway in 6 gear, so, economical... But after 10 rpm it is a lot of fun and you can keep up with 1000 in bike rides. Also, and breaks are really good too, because 2 discs, which aren't just fashion thing, just 2 discs have much better breaking power. Sorry if it hurts your confidence, but it wasn't great review, I think you just didn't ride it how it has to be ridden :)
"I can give it all the beans" 😂
l guess yes if u ride the bike easy and responsibly it could be a beginner bike but beginner bike with 90hp is still kinda lot tho bcs there is going to be a day when you test the top speed and limit when you are in the corner and then the crash happens. A2 and A1 bikes exist for the beginners.
It has 98 horses and not 90 horses like you said.
Not 90 HP.... It's rather near 100HP, 98HP to be exact!
inline 4 over twins all day everyday. manufacturer trying to cheap out by subrtracting 2 cylinders. more cylinders the better. smoothness all day baby. I would take this bike over a newer 2 cylinder any day of the week.
98 horses
Fazer
Enter the Z900.
The fz6 is nothing like a 250
Deloki dewe deloki dewe ra wedi sku ...ngko ono beritane.
I feel like this is a step up from Ninja 400, in term of beginner bike.
5 speed
Not sure where this is coming from. It is a 6 speed
your giving me motion sickness
I drove a Suzuki bandit 600 2003 , same ergonomics , I drove the r6 and gsxr 600 didn’t like how it put my head forward, the bikes also weirdly felt slower lol how are the Honda cbrs ? Is it the same thing ?
Does Kawasaki have a model like this ?
probably the Kawasaki versys, doesn't compare to the Yamaha though