2006 FZ6 Review 

I want to commend the video/production quality! Better quality in 2011 than most people have in 2022 lmfao

One of my favorite in the garage is my 2006 that just hit 17k here in 2024. 4 year owner. Just enough custom things to my immaculate taste. Can't believe you made this 12yrs ago. Very nice review. Clear, crisp, and concise. This bike and similar sports were taken off of the market because they were dangerous and easily accessible to new and young riders that were flying off the roads. Yammy phased in the XJ6R for that reason to align with the torque driven class at the time in gear with the Japanese markets desire to dial back the performance race to save lives. Do not get this bike if you are new to riding. Prices are ridiculous on them at the moment and thank goodness. They're like an mt10 to R1 version of an r6 but from back in the day with old tech. Very quick and capable.... with old tech. They're pretty special bikes for their versatility. Great for an experienced rider to road trip or back road ride on, but nothing a new rider should ever be piloting. I've owned and driven many bikes over the years and the fz6 and gsf600 were two that made sense to be put to rest respectfully because they are just not good for business or for family. Stay safe kids.

within the first 50 seconds i liked your video because you were real...

I just got myself an FZ6. It's 09. I love it, can't wait till winter is over.

I bought an FZ6 a month and a half ago. I just came back from a weekend Moto beach trip, put maybe 1k miles into it in one weekend. I couldn't be more happy with this bike. the center stand is a life-saver, and the bike is easy to work on. I had to replace a clutch cable on my way back from the trip. my ONLY gripe is that I don't like that you have to remove some of the fairings and the tank just to get to the battery, but thankfully that's not something you have to do often. this video is what convinced me to buy it, so thank you for your very real and honest review. I'd love to know if you still have the bike, and what mods you did. did you ever get that Corbin seat?

Just an update- When the bike gets to the reserve, the trip odometer automatically resets and the last bar of the fuel gauge blinks. You have about half a gallon left when this happens which, at best, gives you 25 miles, at worst, 15 miles.

Thank you for not scolding me and saying "a 600 is too much power! Start on a 300 or 250." I live in a pretty small town now. I'm moving to a major city in the first half of next year (for college). I'm worried having a bike in the city will just be more of a pain than its worth.

Hello, did you put a taller windscreen on? I am 6'1". I do not mind some wind in the chest but can't stand helmet buffeting, which the taller screen might give me. Thanks.

I'm usually hesitant to suggest powerful machines to beginners but it's all about how quickly you pick it up and maturity level. Living in the city your biggest concerns will be traffic (vehicles and pedestrians) and theft. I'd actually recommend getting a supermoto or a lightweight twin if you're going to be living in a dense, city environment. You'll really appreciate the maneuverability and low end power going from stop light to stop light and dodging cars.

I Purchased an fz6 2004 model in 2013 with the thought, this will do for couple of years. How wrong was I, it's still with me 6 & 1/2 years on & not leaving. An utterly brilliant machine grossly underrated. Good video, nice 1. 👍

It's been absolutely amazing, no mechanical issues whatsoever. If you only plan on doing trackdays and canyon runs then I'd go with a full supersport, and if you don't care about sporty riding and just wanna lay down serious miles get a cruiser. But if you want both, the fz6 is your machine. I don't think you'll be disappointed with it if you like to do a little bit of everything.

This is a GREAT quality video even being 5 years old! Great work man!

I commented your video a while back saying that's what i wanted to get, i ended up getting the exact same bike last month. FZ6 2006 Lava Red. love it

3:19 51-53 Miles/gallon = 4,4-4,6 l /100 km

I got mine in February, and I wanted to graduate to a bigger bike, but this thing has it all. Big fuel tank, great position, all the power you need and 95 horsepower. I can't justify an fz09 with how well this bike performs. Well done.

Great review, I bought a FZ6 last week and couldn't be happier with it.

info about the reserve. when the bike goes into reserve mode the trip meter is f not trip a or b and counts the milage from when the bottom bar starts to flash.

Great bike man, I have Fazer 600 but 2003. Great bike also, but I have plans to buy one like yours... I am also interested to know wich camera you use to record this video??? Great camera too!!!

I'm getting my 2004 FZ6 in 5 days time. I'm going from a Yamaha WR125r to this. How did you get on with the change? I'm looking foward to getting it, but a bit nervous.

Really well done review on the FZ6. Too bad you crashed it. How is she doing now? I'm considering getting one of this. I have a question for you though, How bad is the insurance on this bike?

2011 sick, is this bike still alive? The fuel reserve would just be done via the fuel gauge. When it reads empty you still actually have the reserve amount. I ride a 2008 fz1.

Good vid, nice bike! The blank indicator is for the immobilizer (key code light). The immobilizer was an optional feature of the FZ-6.

Good review. Been considering this bike for general transportation in a semi rural area. Seems like it would meet all my needs. Thanks!

Good in depth review! Thank you. This looks like a really great bike to own; however, what would you say about it being a starter bike?!? I am soon to be a new rider and have been advised (if I'm to start on a slightly more powerful bike) to look at this one and the GS500F. Like you said appearance wise this bike looks fantastic, but how would it do for a starter?

You can replace the frame slider with a crash bar. The crash bar has 3 attachment points on the body, so the weight will be better spreaded in case of accidentally falling.

Hi there, I am 6,2 feet tall (1,9m) and I'm thinking of getting the fz6s because somehow it looks taller and with better windscreen than the gs500f or the er6f. The handlebar also seems to be higher in the fz6s, so you would have a more comfortable riding position if you're tall, is it really that way or does it just look like? great review, thanks!

It's fuel injected. It only has 4 less hp than the 2003 R6 which is the version used. 92 hp at the rear wheel TOWERS over all the 60-70hp competition: Ninja 650; Z 650; 650 Er; Honda 650F; Suzuki Gladius and SV; Vee Strom 650; FZ6R; and any other air cooled Ducati

I have a 2005 FZ6, it was my first bike and I love it. I'm actually trying to sell it right now because I'm ready to upgrade. As a first bike, it's very easy to ride and to learn to ride.

Its an automatic reserve, sort of. More or less it really isn't a reserve but a blinking fuel icon on most bikes. The fuel warning will come on when the fuel level in the tank reaches 'reserve' levels. Thank you for the review I'm dreaming of buying one of these to replace my DL650.

You seem to know enough about this bike to answer this question, I currently have an SV650 and it has been my first bike for the past 2 years. I am about to sell it and I have considered this bike. I don't mean to sound power hungry but I am wondering if it will have enough power for me? I have been looking at FZ1's as well, the reason I hesitate on the FZ1 is because of the carburetion. The 6 is fuel injected and has nice features, but are they worth it? Or should I go for the 1000?

I have this exact same bike color and all

My seat gets slightly warm in the hot weather, barley noticable though. Pretty much impossible to burn yourself on the exhaust since it runs under the seat. And with a passenger, well it's a smaller bike so you'll definitely notice theyre there, but certainly manageable.

Beautiful bike, man! I am thinking of getting an FZ6 fazer, I am 185 cm tall, please tell me, do you think it will be too small for me? Thanks, best regards!

Also, on most modern bikes, the "reserve" is a bit of a misnomer. There is no separate reserve tank. The bike will run until the main tank is empty, and then you're out of fuel. The only "reserve" you have is the little light that comes on when the tank has about a gallon or so left.

If the FZ6 is a great beginner's bike, then what are some more advanced bikes? I want to hear. The FZ6 is my third (or even fourth) bike and I've been really happy with it so far, I'm just wondering why do people keep saying it's a beginner's bike? We're not talking about switching to a completely different motorcycle type (namely just to a sports bike or touring bike), let's keep ourselves to the sport-touring bike type that the FZ6 represents.

I just picked up an 07 red just like this one with 11k miles on it and yes it dose have a helmet lock. Also wrapping the exhaust with heat tape keeps the seat cooler.

It doesn't have a Fuel Valve because it is a Fuel Injected Engine

Just got a 2008 black on black and I love it!. It feels bigger than what actually is (both frame and engine). This is a very popular bike in Europe by the way... just came from Greece and Rome and saw a lot of those around.

Any major maintenance issues due to milage, wear and tear, or manufacturer defect? I'm looking at getting the exact same bike off of craigslist and just want to know how it has treated you.

Nice review. I'm picking up a 2009 fz6 today. I can't wait

You know I dont usually log into my acount to leave a comment, but your video is something else. Thank you for putting your time on this great video. I think i changed my mind from gsxr600 to this, as you said you can do more with this bike. (long dist. trips...)

I wouldnt say its "de-tuned" but rather, tuned differently for a wider powerband.

Do you honestly like the bike? I might go pick one up tomorrow but i dont know... Its an 06 with 6k miles but only $3,000..

Hey! I have a question, I'm probably going to buy a second hand FZ6 2006 or a 2010 XJ6, but I think, for now, that this one is one of the best bikes out there. (I've been riding borrowed ER6n, Bandit 650S, older Fazer, ER5, Z750, Aprilia Pegaso Strada 650, Yamaha MT-03...) I just have one question, it was mentioned somewhere about the seat getting hot...how are your experiences with that? And how is it with handling when riding with passanger? And can the passanger burn his hand on the exhaust?

The reserve atomically kicks in. Your fuel bar will flash when it’s in reserve mode

Awesome! Its a great bike, change the oil, keep the chain lubed, and keep fresh rubber on it and this bike will last you many adventure filled miles!

I'm 6.2ft tall, do you think this will work for me? Does the seat adjust?

Good to hear, thank you. I'm looking to get one of this baby. I'm riding KLR 650 though. Keep riding and be safe out there.

Would you recommend it as a first Bike?

Great review, thanks - thinking of getting one of these in a few months, appreciate the detail in your review.

i have also heard that it is because of the longer frame sliders, supposedly if you put on shorter frame sliders there is less leverage (if that is the right word) it wont stress the frame so much.

Great review! Does it have ABS?

Thank you, this review is awesome and I had to get one for myself. :) I'm riding exactly the same bike but with ABS and original exhaust, yours looks great so I guess I'll have to get aftermarket slip on some time soon. :D It's my first bike so I have nothing to compare with.. all I know is that it's an awesome ride and over these 2 weeks I have drivven about 1400 km.

Hey im going to buy the exact same bike a fz6 06 was wondering what the top speed is? I have a chance to get one from a dealer for a yamaha fz6 2006 with 2913 miles and the bike and equipment is in exellent shape good deal? And without really trying does the front end lift when gas is applied

Good review. Thanks for the close ups of the bike. I'm picking up a 2005 FZ6 with 1,900 miles and this video gave me some info I needed. I'm looking forward to that 5 gallon tank. My SV1000S won't hold near that much.

Hey did you change the clamp on the bars?

Looking at a blue 06 for $2k tomorrow. This video makes me excited.

great video!! where are you from? I am from new york city and I have 2005 fz6 :)

Thanks for the review, it's a help. I might get one of these. As to the underseat exhaust, it sure should make adding a saddlebag easy. I hate the difficulty of adding saddlebags to most bikes.

is there a difference on riding position between this half fairing fz6 and no fairing fz6?

my good friend is 6'4" and has been riding his for a few years, I'm also 6'4" and have sat on it and it's pretty comfortable.

Only quality review I have found thank you. Watched it 3 times already. Buying my 07 tomorrow. Prefer the 07 cluster over 06

i bought one 4weeks ago and i love it!!!!

Great review! Hoping to pick one up soon! The fuel petcock is only on bikes that are carbureted, so since this one is fuel injected, it does not have the option to turn the fuel off

It's easy to lock the rear tire so I only use the back brake at low speeds. Plus you don't get any fork dive so it's a lot smoother in stop and go traffic.

Is your front tire still mounted backwards? ;)

Getting one next week for 1800. Very excited

@crocopskick Idk the exact number but top speed is around 150mph indicated. 2913 is really low miles but it depends on what they're asking for it. And as for wheelies, any bike can pop the front wheel up if you try. I've felt it get light coming over hills or doing a holeshot but never accidentally wheelied.

Excellent Review!! You should review all mods performed in the future as well.

The more I shop for late 00 bikes in the ST category in the 600 range (Versys, ER650, FZ6, Katana/GSF) The more I feel the FZ6 is gonna be 'it'. Good review.

true about the slider issue. my 07 FZ6 has a small crack where the slider bent up into the frame when the previous owner went down - will have it welded. love this bike tho

After changing the exhaust does the bike want a DYNO test ????????

That blank you was talking about on yor clocks is the immobiliser

This was a great review. Really helped a lot. I'm a new rider and I was deciding between the 250r 500r or the fz6. Looks wise I would love to have a fz6 but the 250r is pushing so much more mpgs. I'm going to be starting college and working so gas mileage is a big factor for me, but I'm also looking for a good looking bike too. The older 250r's look like toys to me but I was wondering if I could get your opinion on what to get.

Doing just fine, new levers, mirrors, and pegs and she was back on the road. Insurance isn't bad, I have a really basic package and I pay about $200/yr. Depends on what coverage you want, I think with all the coverage at the max you'd be somewhere around $600/yr.

maybe no one will see this sinc ethe video is really old but i'm thinking about picking one of these up off craigslist. 2006, 14k miles, with the euro headlight so its even more of a naked style. think it's a good idea?

I have the same bike fz6s 06 love it .... This is such a good clip THANKS

Thanks fir the excellent review and info. I'm looking at buying an 07 version in blue this week. Nice bikes.

Thanks for your great review bro... helped me make my choice. Same bike, year, colour. Looking forward to flicking it around some tight curves.

I just bought an 05 with 20k miles, but I dont have a licence yet thanks to lockdown... its sitting in the hallway unused D:

@206pappy Its a great bike, good handling, fun to ride, and with the addition of saddlebags, a top case, and a better seat it could be a serious touring bike.

I'm getting mine thursday or friday. I can't wait. I'm evenb exited to have a bike with a clock and centre stand.

I have a 2005 FZ6 I bought brand new, with tax, licensing, etc., grand total was a hair under $7,000! Amazing price for a brand new bike, and a few grand less than the R6. If you are hitting the track the R6 is a little faster, but for everyday riding would much rather have the FZ6.

I'm going at an 07 model for my first bike. Thoughts?

I've a FZX 250, just got my full license. This bike looks great! Seems very versatile too. Saw one for sale for $3000 AUD... bargain!

What's the difference between the fz6 naked and fz6 fazer? Also a buddy let me sit on his r6 the other day and it didn't feel as big as it looks from side angle, is this a similar ride height

Sweet bikes, especial the FZ6-S2 models, but most people don't know the differences, like the rear 2 piece swingarm w- rear slider adjuster, and removeable rear sets, and 4 piston calipers up front, 07 maybe the first year for that ? also the black front forks, be they the naked bikes, or half faired. Could-should have bought a new S2 in 09 for 6k out the door, it was right after they came out with the FZ6R in 2010, nice bikes as well, but I wanted to look some more, he sold it before I was able to get back. Have you ever rode a FZ6 -S2 bike, just wondered how much different they are to one another ? Thanks, yl

Yeah, I'd have to slap some cases on it to keep it practical but that would also give me an excuse to take the bike out more often. Your review gave me a good ideal as to what aftermarket stuff I might need to consider.

Thanks for making this review. Very helpful.

Great review. Love my 2005 FZ6 although I wish I had the black frame and wheels and not the silver. To those of you considering this bike, it's a wonderful, comfortable cruiser without being a "cruiser". I had a cruiser before this bike and the comfort level is no contest compared to this bike. This bike is infinitely more comfortable. It handles great, has predictable acceleration (not jerky) and is mild mannered when the RPMs are kept in check. I believe with the 2007 redesign, the horsepower was dropped from 98 to the mid 70's however, it can be remedied and there are several videos and forum posts discussing this. Also, do not be afraid of being "too big" for this bike. I'm 6'1" and am completely comfortable on this bike.

Compared to the cbr125, the fz6 is double the weight, has double the fuel capacity, 3 more cylinders, and about 8 times the hp. So its going to be a pretty dramatically different feel. Just take it slow, get used to the added weight and power before you start pushing it.

Beautiful bike looks cool

Great review, thank you very much for sharing your opinion about this bike.

I've never ridden a bike with abs and I really never found myself wishing I had it. Proper braking technique goes a long way and abs adds cost. You're legs might get a little cramped on longer rides but you should be fine sizewise.

Which one is best Yamaha fz6 2006 or Aprilia pegaso 650 2010

Better get used to rely on the front brakes whichever the environment is. It's far more secure than using just the rear one.

I know a lower end bike is actually a good option... but I'm going to have to drive 2.5-3hrs every few weeks down a 70-75 mph high way. (Coming home to see the parents or whatever). I was thinking about a CBR500, but those are full on crotch rockets. It'd get insanely uncomfortable on long trips. Any suggestions in the 500 range? I think I could handle the FZ6's power. I drive a car that hits 60 in under 6 seconds, and has a top speed of over 160mph in 1/2 mile (not trying to brag or anything)

I was SOOOO ready to get an FZ -06 as a replacement for my GPz 750. Upon research, seems FZ-06 frames like to crack. Enough to scare me away...sadly. Looks like a 2007 + Bandit 650 s for this guy.

90 horses is quite enough. I think my last 600 (a 1999 Kawasaki ZXRr) had around that and that was a rocket in its day.

Ya same bike 3,000 miles they want 4,000 its a dealership brand new back tire as well good deal? Also i have only about 2,500 miles under my belt had a 07 ninja 250r is this bike a good step up? I plan to get one and take it to my cabin 3 hours away comfy and quick as well? Like how fast can you get going in 1st before shifting? Also say when you down shift do you habe to roll throttle every time or say im going 70 on say 3rd can i just clutch cover and down 3,2,1 in a row without rolling ?