The 150cc commuter segment has always been a cutthroat space and in such a buzzing atmosphere, Yamaha’s FZ series have been all about style, reliability and a fun-to-ride personality. And the newest, the Yamaha FZ-S Fi Hybrid, picks up from where the RE began, but with a very 2021 twist – hybrid technology. But what exactly does “Hybrid” get you in a motorcycle and is it worth taking a look at? Let’s find out.
More on the “Hybrid” Being hybrid is about what?
This is the big question on everyone’s mind. The FZ-S Fi Hybrid, unlike a hybrid car, doesn’t come with a big battery or an electric motor that powers the wheel by itself. Instead, Yamaha’s Hybrid system is an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG).
In essence, it’s a tiny motor that’s belt-driven to help the engine in two primary ways:
- Power Assist: They lend some torque assist for acceleration from a stop and during passing for a peppier ride.
- Energy Management:It serves as starter motor for the silent start/stop system and supports the battery charging to enhance efficiency. #### Design & Styling: Brash and Futuristic
The FZ-S has always had a stunning, aggressive streetfighter look and the Fi Hybrid dones it with even more aggression. It gets a new LED headlamp with signature DRL, which lends it a scowl, you head. Its sporty lineage is followed by the tank shrouds, pointy tank extensions and the digital instruments. Overall, the design is rough, young and can be easily spotted in a crowd of traditional commuters.
Performance: Refined and Responsive Engine
And sitting right in the middle of it is the tried and tested fuel injected 149cc single cylinder air cooled Blue Core engine. Newly wrapped in hybrid assist, this fine, dependable engine is still with us.
The result? More linear, quicker low-end and mid-range response. You feel it when twisting the throttle — the bike feels a little more ready to go, which makes stop-and-go city traffic feel less boring. Though the top-end power remains just about the same, hybrid grunt is most useful where it makes the biggest difference: in town.
Fuel Efficiency: The Big Win
The idea behind the hybrid system is to conserve fuel. The Silent Start System stops the engine running at red traffic lights and instantly re-starts when you depress the clutch, reducing harmful emissions and fuel consumption.
Paired with the engine-assist function, this technology also ensures that the FZ-S Fi Hybrid offers an exciting mileage figure. Real-world figures differ, but the new R3 is always one of the most fuel efficient bikes in its category, which is an important point for budget-concerned riders.
Ride and Handling: As Nimble as Ever
Yamaha has left the winning recipe untouched here. A diamond-type frame combined with a tuned suspension and it handles well, soaking up bumps and offering confident road manners. The lack of weight makes it super agile, and a breeze to flick through traffic, and ensures its title as a perfect urban warrior.
Summary: Who is this for?
It is not a product of revolution, but evolution, the Yamaha FZ-S Fi Hybrid. It’s a great commuter package but fuel-efficient, responsive and **technologically-advanced.
If you are value low running costs, modern features and Yamaha’s sporty style rode outside the city then the FZ-S Fi Hybrid build a strong case for itself. It’s an intelligent, future-proof augmentation that shows how incremental tech adjustments can have dramatic impacts out on the ride.
