Yamaha Fazer 600 S2 Review: The Perfect Blend of Commuter Comfort and R6 DNA
The Yamaha Fazer 600, or FZ6, is widely regarded as one of the best all-round motorcycles ever produced. The later S2 iteration, launched in 2007, took this successful formula – a comfortable, do-it-all bike with a potent engine – and brilliantly refined it with higher-specification components, sharper styling, and flawless fuelling.
If you’re seeking a reliable, highly capable, and exciting middleweight machine that can effortlessly handle everything from daily commuting to aggressive weekend carving, the FZ6 Fazer S2 is an outstanding investment on the used market.
Engine and Performance: R6-Derived Thrills
The core strength of the Fazer S2 is its engine, which features a detuned version of the mighty Yamaha YZF-R6 supersport power plant, granting it an intoxicating split personality.
- Engine Type: 599cc, Liquid-Cooled, Inline 4-Cylinder, DOHC, 4 Valves/Cylinder
- Max Horsepower: 98 HP (72 kW) @ 12,000 RPM
- Max Torque: 63.1 Nm (46.5 lb-ft) @ 10,000 RPM
- Fuel System: Electronic Fuel Injection (Remapped for S2)
- Transmission: 6-speed constant mesh
The Rewarding High-Revving Kick
Ride it below 7,000 RPM, and the engine is wonderfully docile and smooth, perfectly suited for effortless urban traffic. However, cross the 8,000 RPM mark, and the R6 DNA kicks in—the bike comes alive, screaming toward its 12,000 RPM peak, making for an incredibly exciting and rewarding experience on open roads. Critically, the S2 models feature revised fuel injection mapping, ensuring superior throttle response across the rev range.
Chassis and Handling: A Stiff and Capable Foundation
The FZ6 chassis is more sophisticated than many rivals, built around a lightweight, high-rigidity die-cast aluminum twin-spar frame.
- Frame Type: Die-cast Aluminium Twin-Spar
- Front Suspension: 43mm Telescopic Fork (non-adjustable)
- Rear Suspension: Monoshock, Adjustable Preload
- Front Brakes (S2 Upgrade): Dual 298mm Discs with 4-piston Monoblock Calipers
- Rear Brakes: 245mm Single Disc, 1-piston Caliper
- Wet Weight: Approx. 212 kg (467 lbs)
- Seat Height: 795 mm (31.3 in)
- ABS: Available as an Option (Post-2007 models)
The handling receives widespread praise for being light, nimble, and forgiving. The suspension setup achieves a rare feat, striking a great balance: comfortable for commuting yet firm enough to hold a line in aggressive cornering. The inclusion of the four-piston monoblock calipers on the S2 was a massive performance upgrade, offering strong and highly reliable stopping power.
Design, Ergonomics, and Practicality
The Fazer S2 maintains the half-faired, upright sport-touring stance, making it a natural choice for long-distance cruising and daily use.
- Rider Position: The upright ergonomics and comfortable seat make it easy to cover long distances without excessive fatigue. The fairing and windscreen offer excellent wind protection at highway speeds.
- Aesthetic Updates: The S2 features refined visuals, including a new, stylish hexagonal aluminum swingarm, a redesigned front cowl, and the modern instrument cluster (digital speedometer with an analog tachometer) borrowed from the flagship FZ1.
- Exceptional Practicality: The generous 19.4-liter fuel tank offers a solid touring range, easily hitting 200 miles or more depending on riding style. For simple maintenance, many riders appreciate the inclusion of an integrated center stand, which makes chain work effortless.
The Yamaha Fazer 600 S2 is a legendary middleweight standard that simply excels at every discipline, providing the perfect synergy of low-end flexibility, touring capability, and the intoxicating rush of a true sportbike.
