2017 Yamaha FZ25 review, test ride

The 250cc naked streetfighter from Yamaha is finally put to test.

Published on Mar 03, 2017 07:41:00 PM

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The FZ25 gets a diamond chassis that, unfortunately, does not provide it with the structural agility of some of its rivals. That isn’t to say that it’s sluggish, but directional changes happen in a more relaxed manner. Braking is provided by a 282mm disc in the front and a 220mm disc at the rear and is quite effective.

The seating position is great – the seat is low, which is good news for shorter riders, and the spacing of foot pegs and pedals is comfortable. This should definitely be a bonus during longer stints in the saddle. The riding position has been made a tad more aggressive than in the FZ16, but it is still comfortable and quite neutral. Vibrations are well-contained too, perceptible only slightly in the handlebars beyond 7,000rpm.

Where the FZ25 really drops the ball, though, is in equipment. There really isn’t much besides the LED headlamp and the digital instrument cluster; the absence of ABS is quite a letdown.
The FZ25 is a good motorcycle, especially for the city. It is stylish, torquey and comfortable. It, however, misses the mark slightly and feels a bit dated. Present owners of the FZ16 will find it a good upgrade as long as they want to stay in the FZ family. But, aside from fulfilling its city duties, the FZ25, with its overall relaxed nature, should make for a nice highway companion as well.