Yamaha introduced its FZ motorcycles to the United States in 2001. The line is based on its R1, which is Yamaha’s most powerful street bike and can travel in excess of 190 mph. The FZ is considered the tamed-down version of the R1 due to its less powerful engine. The Japanese manufacturer produced two models of the FZ in 2008: the FZ 1 and the FZ 6. The engine size is the major difference between the two versions. The FZ 1 has a 998 cc engine, while the FZ 6 has a smaller engine at only 600 cc. They also come in different colors. The FZ 1 is available in red and gray, with anodized aluminum forks that gives them a copper hue, while the FZ 6 comes in purplish blue and black. The FZ line is known as the FZ Fazer in Europe. FZs with smaller displacement engines are available elsewhere around the world; this naked bike is particularly popular in India.
Yamaha describes the FZ 6 has having ""sport soul, street spirit,"" noting it is an all-around motorcycle that ""combines exciting performance and great style with an incredible level of riding comfort."" It is designed to be a commuter motorcycle as well as a touring bike for leisure hours. The FZ 1, which Yamaha refers to as a ""serious sport bike,"" has high footpegs, which, when combined with seating position, tend to be uncomfortable and cramped for riders. However, riders say this position provides good cornering when riding on twisty roads. Both models have a standard instrument panel with backlighting that can be adjusted.