Hi, first post:been shopping and thought I had an FZ6..

[grcamna7]

I'm looking for an FZ6 in very good condition;one that's been adult owned and operated(not pounded,layed-down,etc.)And maintained;I want to find a good,used bike that's been lovingly cared for.
I would love to buy a blue color bike:that dark blue if possible, or silver as a 2nd choice.

Can you help me with some advice on which model/year is very good;possibly let me know if you have,or know-of an FZ6 in very good,well maintained condition that's been serviced regularly ?
I want to find a 49-State model(not a CA. model w/ anti-pollution/EPA smog equipment)either in NV. or the PNW:OR.
I'll go as far as UT. to pick it up and drive it back to where I reside now in Yolo county,CA.

I found an 05' w/ low miles that looks interesting.
I recognize that short trips are better for a bike,than letting the bike sit unused for many years.. and I don't think this seller has done regular maintenance,imo.

I appreciate your advice. thx,Bill

9/3/25' Edit: I just found an 08' S2 w/ 14K that's been dropped on the tank,got a better deal because of it.
The bike hadn't been maintained like I had wanted,but it's not been pounded and raced either.

 

[grcamna7]

I was watching an online video of a person swapping a set of R6 forks and brake calipers onto an 05' FZ6 and,that looks good to me.
I know they added better forks and calipers on later models of FZ6,but not sure if the forks would be quite as nice and adjustable as the R6 pieces.

I want to hear you members thoughts.
I want to do this modification,along with a very good rear shock,when I find My FZ6.

 

[grahammarsden]

The S2 model (2007-2009) was an improvement on the original S (faired) model, eg they put better brakes on, redesigned the swing arm slightly and made the rear footpeg hangers bolt on, rather than welded on, so you could remove them if you want.

I think that seller you mention is trying it on, because even though it's low mileage, the fluids will all need replacing and there's a lot of things to check to make sure it's in good condition, not least the tyres are probably the OEM ones and *well* past needing replacement.

Look at the DOT number, the first two digits are the week number, the second two are the year. If they're more than 7 years old, I'd replace them. Also, of course, it's probably been resting on the same spot on the front tyre all that time...

Here's a standard post I use on an FZ6 Fazer group every time someone asks this question. Some of this won't be relevant to this particular bike, but it should be useful anyway.

Here's some stuff to check before you buy it...

Firstly, the FZ6 often drops into first gear with a loud bang or clunk sound! This is, incredibly, absolutely normal.

Check the exhaust headers for signs of rust. If they're bad, it means other, important work probably hasn't been done.

Put the bike on the centre stand and get someone to push down on the back. Using fingertip pressure, tip the handlebars to one side and the other and see if you can feel any grinding, clicking or rough sensations which could indicate the headset bearings are worn or rusty (which is a difficult job to fix).

Also take hold of the front wheel and see if you can pull the forks back and forth which would also indicate a worn headset.

Bounce the forks up and down and look for any signs of oil leaking from the fork seals.

Check the rear shock and see what condition it's in. Clean? Rusty? Can you change the preload setting or is it stuck in place because it's never been moved and it's covered in dirt?

Put your finger under the chain a little bit back from the centre stand and try to push it up against the swing arm. If it goes really easily or you can't get it there at all, it's too loose or tight. If it takes a bit of effort to hold it there, the tension is probably ok.

Feel the gaps between the teeth on the rear sprocket, if you can feel a "lip" or a "hook" instead of a smooth curve, it's on the way out and would need replacing as well as the front sprocket and chain.

With the rear wheel off the ground, check to see if you can wiggle the wheel or swing arm back and forward or from side to side. Either could mean the bearings are worn and which could need to be replaced.

Run the bike until it's warm, then switch off and let it sit for a few minutes. Check the oil level on the centre stand and make sure it's ok.

Other things to ask...

If it's done nearly 24k (or 48k) miles, ask if the valve clearances have been checked, if they haven't and they need new shims, that's an expensive job if you get it done by a mechanic.

The brake pipes are supposed to be replaced every 4 years, so ask if they've been done (although I did mine after 14 and they were fine, I just wanted braided lines).

Ask if the spark plugs and oil filter have been changed (recommended every 12k miles) air filter (25k miles)

None of these last ones are necessarily critical, the FZ6 is pretty reliable, but it would show that the bike has been cared for.

There's probably more, but that's a few to be going on with!

If you're happy with it, enjoy!

 

[grcamna7]

The S2 model (2007-2009) was an improvement on the original S (faired) model, eg they put better brakes on, redesigned the swing arm slightly and made the rear footpeg hangers bolt on, rather than welded on, so you could remove them if you want.

I think that seller you mention is trying it on, because even though it's low mileage, the fluids will all need replacing and there's a lot of things to check to make sure it's in good condition, not least the tyres are probably the OEM ones and *well* past needing replacement.

Look at the DOT number, the first two digits are the week number, the second two are the year. If they're more than 7 years old, I'd replace them. Also, of course, it's probably been resting on the same spot on the front tyre all that time...

Here's a standard post I use on an FZ6 Fazer group every time someone asks this question. Some of this won't be relevant to this particular bike, but it should be useful anyway.

Here's some stuff to check before you buy it...

Firstly, the FZ6 often drops into first gear with a loud bang or clunk sound! This is, incredibly, absolutely normal.

Check the exhaust headers for signs of rust. If they're bad, it means other, important work probably hasn't been done.

Put the bike on the centre stand and get someone to push down on the back. Using fingertip pressure, tip the handlebars to one side and the other and see if you can feel any grinding, clicking or rough sensations which could indicate the headset bearings are worn or rusty (which is a difficult job to fix).

Also take hold of the front wheel and see if you can pull the forks back and forth which would also indicate a worn headset.

Bounce the forks up and down and look for any signs of oil leaking from the fork seals.

Check the rear shock and see what condition it's in. Clean? Rusty? Can you change the preload setting or is it stuck in place because it's never been moved and it's covered in dirt?

Put your finger under the chain a little bit back from the centre stand and try to push it up against the swing arm. If it goes really easily or you can't get it there at all, it's too loose or tight. If it takes a bit of effort to hold it there, the tension is probably ok.

Feel the gaps between the teeth on the rear sprocket, if you can feel a "lip" or a "hook" instead of a smooth curve, it's on the way out and would need replacing as well as the front sprocket and chain.

With the rear wheel off the ground, check to see if you can wiggle the wheel or swing arm back and forward or from side to side. Either could mean the bearings are worn and which could need to be replaced.

Run the bike until it's warm, then switch off and let it sit for a few minutes. Check the oil level on the centre stand and make sure it's ok.

Other things to ask...

If it's done nearly 24k (or 48k) miles, ask if the valve clearances have been checked, if they haven't and they need new shims, that's an expensive job if you get it done by a mechanic.

The brake pipes are supposed to be replaced every 4 years, so ask if they've been done (although I did mine after 14 and they were fine, I just wanted braided lines).

Ask if the spark plugs and oil filter have been changed (recommended every 12k miles) air filter (25k miles)

None of these last ones are necessarily critical, the FZ6 is pretty reliable, but it would show that the bike has been cared for.

There's probably more, but that's a few to be going on with!

If you're happy with it, enjoy!

Hi Graham, The S2 07-09' ? I understand
I appreciate your knowledge of the FZ6 and recommendations
The information you've shared has been very helpful.

 

[Gary in NJ]

Some S2 owners complain about throttle snatchiness from idle to open like when coasting through a turn and reapplying throttle. Just letting you know that exists.

S2 has better brake calipers…that’s the only real tangible difference. My S1 has SS braided lines and great pads…I never even think about the brakes on my S1..they are adequate for the job at hand.

 

[grcamna7]

Some S2 owners complain about throttle snatchiness from idle to open like when coasting through a turn and reapplying throttle. Just letting you know that exists.

S2 has better brake calipers…that’s the only real tangible difference. My S1 has SS braided lines and great pads…I never even think about the brakes on my S1..they are adequate for the job at hand.

I see.
Does the 05' model exhibit the same 'snatchiness' ?
Did you get your TPS replaced under warranty,as the original owner ?
How do you like your Ohlins rear shock ?

 

[Gary in NJ]

I have an ‘05 and ‘06, neither of them have any throttle snatch.

I can only assume that the TPS was replaced as that campaign occurred during the ownership of the original owner.

The Ohlins is a great upgrade for a worn shock. It’s very expensive and I wouldn’t recommend it over a well functioning OEM shock. It is less harsh over hard edge bumps and provides a plush ride. Coupled with fork Cartridge Emulators, it transforms the bike from a bike with budget suspension to a bike with predictable handling and a comfortable ride. Again, the shock is expensive, but so are other plug-n-play options.

 

[grcamna7]

I have an ‘05 and ‘06, neither of them have any throttle snatch.

I can only assume that the TPS was replaced as that campaign occurred during the ownership of the original owner.

The Ohlins is a great upgrade for a worn shock. It’s very expensive and I wouldn’t recommend it over a well functioning OEM shock. It is less harsh over hard edge bumps and provides a plush ride. Coupled with fork Cartridge Emulators, it transforms the bike from a bike with budget suspension to a bike with predictable handling and a comfortable ride. Again, the shock is expensive, but so are other plug-n-play options.

Thanks 'Gary in NJ'.
I bought Ohlins for the first time from the US dealer in Hendersonville,NC. last November;a pair of Universal fit dual-shocks Ohlins dirt bike shocks for my vintage Suzuki,but they're not Made in Sweden.
What model # Ohlins rear shock did you purchase ?

 

[Gary in NJ]

The series is STX46, and the model number is YA 403

 

[grcamna7]

The series is STX46, and the model number is YA 403

Thanks Gary, do you know if this is a popular size/model shock,where they will keep making it ?
Does it have adjustable ride height ?

 

[Gary in NJ]

It’s a basic Ohlins shock with adjustable screw-type preload adjustment and adjustable rebound. Whether Ohlins will keep building them in the future is anyone’s guess. With that said, it’s a rebuildable shock so the only support needed in the future for service is a decent mechanic.

 

[grcamna7]

It’s a basic Ohlins shock with adjustable screw-type preload adjustment and adjustable rebound. Whether Ohlins will keep building them in the future is anyone’s guess. With that said, it’s a rebuildable shock so the only support needed in the future for service is a decent mechanic.

Sounds just right for the FZ6 $

 

[grahammarsden]

The throttle snatch (or jerk) on the FZ6 is caused by an "emission reducing" tweak by Yamaha.

When you roll off the throttle, eg in a bend, the ECU cuts the fuel delivery, so no emissions. When you open it up again, there's a momentary lag causing a jerk.

There are various ways of getting rid of it, from not rolling off all the way, to installing a Power Commander, to doing this modification: https://www.600riders.com/threads/trying-to-solve-the-snatchy-throttle.60305/page-5#post-653938

 

[grcamna7]

Okay,I may want to momentarily pull the clutch in,mid-corner and give it a small hair of throttle while gently/smoothly re-engaging the clutch.

I've decided that I don't really Need to get a 49-State model as there's about 2-3 decent S2 models(dark blue)here in CA.,although I like the 49-State model better.
I'm certainly hooked on the specs and reviews of the FZ6 !!!
I'm glad I found this forum,and even though I've never owned an FZ6,I for sure look toward the day(asap !)when I find the best one for me;I hope to find a dark blue 08' like the one I missed-out on today.
A set of Givi bags would be a big Plus.
I found a one-owner blue one w/ 16,000 miles owned by a middle-age wife;she already sold her husband's matching bike,and that was 320 miles South of me.

I'm waiting for my $ from the sale of my 98' VFR800FI(beautiful machine w/ 19,000 orig. & still in my possession):the title is in the mail and the buyer is waiting to give me the rest of the $ when it arrives in my mailbox;the old 'waiting game'.

 

[grcamna7]

I was thinking 'just throw a set of new tires on it and a custom seat..' so I could slide back further.. But nah.
I don't like the way it forces me into the tank,and it's bright red

 

[Gary in NJ]

VFR vs FZ6...I'd take the VFR (with EFI) every time. The VFR's are so smooth and comfortable. The downside is more complex maintenance, and having to remove the fairings to perform maintenance. But from a riding perspective...they are damn-near perfection.

 

[grcamna7]

VFR vs FZ6...I'd take the VFR (with EFI) every time. The VFR's are so smooth and comfortable. The downside is more complex maintenance, and having to remove the fairings to perform maintenance. But from a riding perspective...they are damn-near perfection.

Yes,it is a nice bike.
The comfort is decent,for a sportbike.. but the FZ6 is what I want.

I'm saving pictures of it;and it's only this nice once,so it'll always look good in pics.
The PO(family man)is the 2nd owner and he lives in a small town below The Dalles,OR.
He bought this VFR from the Original owner in 2012 w/ 7000 miles,and he(still)loved it.
The PO's Wife was working on him for 13 years,letting him know: 'it's Too fast and dangerous'.

I'd love to be able to keep it,but $ is tight and I'm going to use the $ from the sale to buy a good FZ6.
I just Love the 'technical features' of the FZ6;what's not to like on a blue Yamaha S2 with standard 7/8 bars 'showing it's engine' ?

 

[grcamna7]

I just bought my 08' FZ6 S2,Ca. model.
I really hate the damaged tank,and plan to replace it,when I find one.
I love the dark blue.
I want to service it,as I'm not sure if it had been.. it has 14,450 miles.
The bike was garaged.
I'm not sure where I can find a tank w/ as clean of original paint as this one(except for the damaged area.
I'll just keep hunting,until then I can still use the bike.

The PO has died recently and I purchased this from his son Eric;because of health reasons,he needed to stop riding,so it was parked for a year.

 

[Gary in NJ]

Congrats on the purchase. Very low miles. The bike looks clean with the exception of the tank. Do you know the story of how it got so damaged? Looks like something in the garage fell on the bike or someone backed into it.

 

[grcamna7]

Congrats on the purchase. Very low miles. The bike looks clean with the exception of the tank. Do you know the story of how it got so damaged? Looks like something in the garage fell on the bike or someone backed into it.

thanks Gary I'm glad I found a dark blue one.

The PO lost balance when he was stopped on the edge of his driveway,where it meets the road.
The bike was stationary and it went over on the right side and caught the edge of the curb w/ the tank, according to his son whom I just purchased it from.