The Yamaha FZ-S and Fazer 150 cc motorcycles are consistent sellers for the manufacturer and are all set to get upgrades for 2018. As per the leaked brochure images emerged online, Yamaha Motor India will soon introduce cosmetic upgrades on the Fazer and FZ-S models, while the option of a rear disc brake will be made available as well. The changes are, in fact, in plenty and include new split seats, headlamp design, new LCD instrument console and a refreshed tail light as well. The tail section also gets subtle changes on the updated version.
(The updates will also be seen on the Yamaha Fazer 150)
In addition, the 2018 Yamaha FZ-S and Fazer get revised body graphics. The overall design theme continues to remain macho, which made it popular among the younger riders in the first place. Do not expect any substantial changes to the mechanicals though.
The Yamaha Fazer and FZ-S for 2018 will continue with the same 149 cc, fuel-injected, single-cylinder engine with Blue Core technology. At present, the motor produces about 13 bhp and 12.8 Nm of peak torque, while paired to a 5-speed tranmsission. Expect the new motor to be tweaked for higher fuel efficiency and improved throttle response.
However, the welcome addition with the option of a rear disc brake on the Yamaha FZ-S and Fazer motorcycles. The feature has become increasingly common in the segment and it's a nice touch to see Yamaha keep up with rivals. Reports also suggest that the 2018 versions could also sport radial tubeless tyres. Other cycle parts should remain the same with beefy telescopic forks up front and a monoshock suspension at the rear.
(Mechanicals will remain the same on the 2018 Yamaha FZ-S FI)
The Yamaha FZ series was originally launched in India over a decade ago and turned out to be game changer for the company. The second generation model arrived in 2014 to a much more evolved 150 cc segment and has been a popular choice. However, the segment has grown now with competition coming from the Suzuki Gixxer, Bajaj Pulsar NS 160 and Honda CB Hornet 160R.
Expect Yamaha to introduce the 2018 FZ-S and Fazer in the next few weeks, possibly at the upcoming Auto Expo. Yamaha is also likely to introduce the YZF-R15 V3 at the biennial event, along with the updated YZF-R3. Keep watching this space for all happenings from the Auto Expo.
