2016 Yamaha FZ-10 [MT-10] Test Ride

In a Nutshell

Yamaha revealed their latest super naked, FZ-10, based on the R1 platform. We put it to the test to find out if this is just a naked R1 or a completely different bike.

Super-naked market, hold your horses. A new release from Yamaha has what it takes to get a podium place in this segment. The new FZ-10 [MT-10 in Europ] brings up the best of the MT class. With futuristic looks and a very muscular engine, it’s got the recipe for a fun and versatile bike. Moreover, the Japanese manufacturer offers the FZ-10 as a lower priced alternative in the super-naked/streetfighter segment. This bike has a lot to say and can easily challenge the power and features of Kawasaki’s Z1000, BMW’s S1000R or Aprilia’s RSV 1000 Tuono.

What We Liked

The BIG BANG punch feel is outstanding. The peak power of 159 HP is more than enough to impress even the most demanding riders. You won’t need more power. The gears are shorter than those on the YZF and it allows you to pull a wheelie even on the third gear.

Judging by the looks, the MT-10 seems the perfect bike for a high-speed night ride. The handlebar is wide and the riding position feels a bit high. Though, the handlebar angle feel is a bit odd for a naked bike. It is difficult to do a small radius turn – be aware not to tip-over. The MT-10 leaves you the impression of a warmup bike before the track-day. The suspension is the fully adjustable KYB from the former R1, and it does a great job.

How about a cruise control button. On a super naked? Yamaha made it clear that this super naked can handle some touring. Is less high-tech than the R1 but as safe as it can get. In order to keep at as low priced the IMU was left aside, but there’s no shortage of systems. It has three riding modes, ride-by-wire throttle, traction control with three stages, and ABS that come in standard. The traction control is the best I tried until now. You are free to wheelie while is still on.

It seems very odd, but while running on the highway, you won’t fell the wind pulling you down. A small windshield is mounted, on top of the headlight, and it does a great job. The upright position feels good. There is plenty of room for the legs, but the saddle becomes disturbing after a few miles.

The aggressive urban look is the iconic signature of the new MT class. But this model is by far the most flashy. The Yamaha FZ-10 [MT-10] is a love it or hate it bike. The builder used a lot of plastic to reach its final shape, but everything seems to be tight fitted. The headlight is the central piece on this bike and gives the FZ a fierce look.

The dashboard is easy to read and the friendly LCD unit is similar to the one on the R1. The menu is simple to navigate. The controls have a simple but reliable look.

The color scheme is out of the box.

What We Disliked

The propulsion unit startup was, basically, Yamaha R1’s crossplane engine. It keeps the R1’s roar, but unfortunately is not the same. Almost 40% of the high-tech parts were replaced. Goodbye, fancy titanium camshafts! This time is about low and mid-range power.

In the city, you may find the suspension too harsh, but when the speed increases it becomes more stable. Unfortunately, there is no active suspension available for this model. There is no pinpoint accuracy in the corners for the MT-10. It will put your skills to the test.

A great surprise for this powerful super-naked is the cruise control. Our second thought was to search for the heated grips. Well, they were missing (they can be fitted as an option). Although is intended to handle some touring, it’s not up for this job. It is very stiff when it comes to bumpy roads. Sportiness before comfort.

The wind protection is enough for you to hit 80Mph. After that barrier, you need a bigger windshield.

Raw Data

Price: €13.550 [$13.000]. It’s cheaper than the BMW S1000R and the KTM 1290 Superduke R, but more expensive than Kawasaki Z1000 and Suzuki GSX-S1000

Average fuel consumption in test 6.5 litres/100 km [36.18 mpg]

You can add a lot of comfort and stylish features and even a titanium exhaust.

Year introduced	2016
Max power (horsepower, KW)	118,0 kW (160,4PS)
Max torque (NM, lb-ft)	111,0 Nm
Top speed (km/h, mph)	Over 125 mph
Engine (CC, CI)	998cc
Frame	Deltabox® Aluminum Frame
Weight (KG, Lbs.)	210 Kg ( 463 lb )
Seat Height (CM, IN”)	825 mm ( 32.5 in )
Front Brake	Dual hydraulic disc, 320mm; ABS
Rear Brake	Hydraulic disc, 220mm; ABS
Front Tire Size	120/70ZR17
Rear Tire Size	190/55ZR17
Front suspension	43mm KYB® inverted fork, fully adjustable; 4.7-in travel
Rear suspension	KYB® single shock w/piggyback reservoir, fully adjustable; 4.7-in travel
Fuel Tank (L, Gal)	17 L
Avg. fuel consumption (L/100 KM, MPG)	4.5 L / 100 km
Safety	ABS, Traction control
Price (EUR, USD)	€13.550 [ $13.000 ]