Can the new Yamaha Fazer take on Suzuki Gixxer?

The Fazer V2 gets updates in line with what the FZ V2 got recently; it's more frugal now and is designed to rival the Honda CB Trigger, TVS Apache 160 and the recently launched Suzuki Gixxer, says Faisal Ali Khan.

Yamaha Fazer V2; Photograph: yamaha-motor-india.com

Yamaha has soft launched the Version 2.0 of the Fazer, it's half-faired 150cc bike. The Fazer is a premium commuter bike which is aimed at those who like touring. It's one of the most expensive bikes in its segment but manages to do decent numbers due to the lack of choice for buyers. Yamaha has given the new Fazer similar changes as the FZ. The bike also gets some styling tweaks.

The Yamaha Fazer 2.0 gets a sharper front-end with more aggressive lights. The bike also gets new grab rails and a split seat set up for improved comfort. Yamaha has also updated the cluster and the new model gets a nice tablet like display for the instrumentation. The rear gets a new tyre hugger, the exhaust end has been revised and the tyres now get an improved compound for higher puncture resistance and improved grip.

Yamaha has plonked in a new engine in the Fazer, the same one that does duty on the new FZ. The 149cc, air-cooled engine now uses fuel injection technology and produces 13.1 PS of power with the torque output being 12.8 Nm.

The motor is coupled to a 5-speed gearbox. With revisions to the chassis, Yamaha has reduced the weight of the bike. The Fazer also gets Blue Core Technology and the overall improvement in mileage is claimed to be 14 per cent.

Yamaha Fazer V2; Photograph: yamaha-motor-india.com

The Yamaha Fazer V2.0 is priced at Rs 83,850 (ex-showroom, Delhi) and comes at a premium over the V1 model. However, you do get a host of updates on this motorcycle which boosts its appeal massively. The Fazer rivals the Honda CB Trigger, TVS Apache 160 and the recently launched Suzuki Gixxer in the segment. It's offered in three colours -- white, black and red.