2009 Yamaha FZ1 User Ratings

Wow, I can't believe this bike. I bought her new in '06 and even on a ride earlier today, Dec 2009, the pure power still takes me by surprise. This is truely the do it all machine.

When I was looking to purchase I wanted a ride that would hang with the sport bikes but was more comfortable allowing me to enjoy the ride rather than tolerate it. I also have a Honda 600RR that sits under a fine layer of dust because the FZ1 is so much more enjoyable to ride.

And for those who say its the sport bike for old farts...I have out run just about every 600cc bike on the road, Z06 Corvettes, Porsches 911 and BMW M5s just to mention a few. It takes a pure sport bike of at least 750cc to pass her by, so get that old guys stuff out of your head. And to be honest I know a couple guys who did some simple, inexpensive mods and they run with 750 and 1000s all day long.

Now all that said, remember, this bike was not designed to be an R1 or GSXR. It is designed to be the gap filler between the R1 and a touring bike such as the FJR. So those who ride it and say well its got 1000cc but does not pull like an R1...no kidding, its not designed to. So if you think this is an upright R1 and plan on riding one on wheel and cruising down the highway at 190mph then go buy and R1. But if you want the all around experience go with the FZ1.

Ok, off my soap box now...

Engine:
Amazing. 3k-5k its building power but will still propel you past the car slowing you down no problem. 5k-8k the power comes alive and she is really begining to pull hard. Above 8k this bike will take your breathe away. She is not a wheelie monster but getting the front off the ground is not difficult at all. Very smooth linear accelleration that provides great confidence.

Handeling:
Very good. Though my 600RR sits most days, the one thing it does well is handle. The FZ1 is not to that level but does very well for a bigger bike. Again, confidence is always key and she will not let you down.

Looks:
I love it, but this topic is for you to decide. I wanted something that looked good with a sporty style but at the same time was very different from all your standard sport bikes. I didn't want it to get lost in a long line of bikes, I wanted it to stand out. For as good as this bike is and the constant positive feedback from riders, I am amazed at how few actually know what it is at first glance.

Overall:
She is my one stop shop for me. All the power you could ever want or need for a street bike. Comfort that allows you to ride all day. Now after a couple hours my back side begins to hurt as with most bikes but the real difference is with my hands, arms and elbows...no pain or discomfort at all, say good bye to shaking out your hands every 10 minutes.

I own the 2008 Version. I've ridden street bikes all my life and I'm now over 50. ( I say this to add context to my comments.) The Gen II FZ1 has many outstanding qualities, but none more than it's predictable, confidence inspiring handling. This is truly a bike for all reasons. Commuting and city streets are no problem. The FZ1 is agile at 485 lbs wet with excellent brakes. Highway miles are comfortable and with 130+ HP, passing and fast is no problem. But where the bike shines is in the twisties. Mountain roads are a blast on the FZ1. Keep the RPMs up and you'll slice up corners like Valentino Rossi. If you're looking for a pure touring machine, there are better choices Don't expect more than 40MPG.

this is by far the best motorcycle I've ever had and Ive had everything out there from all the liter sport bikes over the years.I'm 55 years old and I still can run the thing all out with anybody on the road and that says a lot for the motorcycle.Ive changed the rear and front sprocket for a little more gear like the old R1's had.that made the thing simply fly through the quarter mile.almost broke into the nines with this gearing it has now-with some tuning and exhaust work I know I can make it run with anything out there naturally aspirated and apples to apples thanks Yamaha for such a wonderful machine.this will probably be the last bike I will need to buy WR

Bought new June 2008, I been riding V Twins for several years and liked them, but after riding this 4 cylinder I'am sold on it.This is the best all around Bike I have ever ridden and I'am 70 years old, owned 2 wings,honda 4's and you name it.I only wish this Bike had showed up when I was younger,down side to that is I might have killed my dumb ass.The Yamaha begs to ride it like you stole it Sweet is the best description I can come up with.Love it.

I've owned and test ridden just about everything out there. This bike does everything SOOOOOO well. Accelerates RAPIDLY and the brakes are excellent. It's rock solid in a corner like on rails, but at the same time nimble enough to throw around. All this and comfortable as well. Great motor, great handling, comfort... everything I love in 1 motorcycle. Hats off to you Yamaha.