Let me start with an elucidation – the new Yamaha FZ-S Fi Hybrid is not a full hybrid bike with an electric motor that runs it partly on electricity, but a mild hybrid that provides the extra punch and marginally improves the fuel efficiency.
How’s the design?
It’s got the now-famous Yamaha’s streetfighter looks – a muscular tank, thin and razer-sharp headlights, and catchy stickers on graphics. It’s got a large display screen that remains visible even under the bright sun.
The riding position is body-forward, the seat is comfortable for short rides (50-60 km nonstop), and the repositioned handlebars made city commuting comfortable.
How does it ride?
It gets Yamaha’s Smart Motor Generator (SMG) mild hybrid system – and you will feel it immediately you start the engine, which is electric and silent, instead of loud and vibratory. As you twist the throttle, you will feel a marginal battery-powered boost. As you come to a complete stop, the engine will automatically shut down, and will instantly restart as you engage the clutch. All this leads to an improvement in fuel efficiency – my test unit returned 50 km/litre on Delhi’s roads (a non-hybrid bike of a similar size would have struggled to go past 45 km/litre).
But on highways there was no such improvement in fuel efficiency – as the hybrid assist only helps at the start and in traffic, and doesn’t dramatically impact highway or aggressive riding.
Why no full hybrid?
Motorcycles demand low weight and tight packaging, and accommodating a large battery and motor would hinder handling, agility, and fun – qualities fundamental to city bikes.
Should you buy it?
The FZ-S Fi Hybrid costs Rs 1.45 lakh, ex-showroom, and is Rs 10,000 pricier than the non-hybrid version (FZ-S Fi). That Rs 10,000 extra might sound a lot for the marginal gains in fuel efficiency, but the hybrid version has some key additions that make it a good deal. These are:
– Traction control system, which helps prevent the rear wheel from spinning out;
– Upgraded instrument cluster and Bluetooth connectivity, and even turn-by-turn navigation assist;
– The silent, buttery-smooth start is music to ears;
– Updated design elements such as new colours;
– And it smoothy runs on the E20 fuel.
