Karizma / Hunk / Unicorn) With ever raising price of fuel, its a question that haunts most of the Indian bike owners as, How to obtain better mileage from Indian bikes like Yamaha R15 / Fazer / FZ16 or from Bajaj Pulsar 220 DTSi / 200 / 180 or from Hero Honda products like ZMR / Karizma / Hunk ? Well first of all, one has to understand, this mileage word is a very subjective word. It is not something dependent on a single factor rather multiple factors comes together to effect the issue. Before you get concerned about your mileage, first masseur it, as exactly how much are you getting. Things which effects your mileage is like, Ridding style This is the most important factor to consider when you want more mileage from your bike. More you use clutch and break, then accelerate harder, more fuel your bike burns. Try to keep your bike at around 55-60 kmph From signal, do not accelerate harder through gears, shift at around 3k to 4k RPM and accelerate as slowly. Try to be in top gear as much time as possible. Apply breaks when needed, do not put your foot in break while ridding Maintenance Next big thing in mileage is how well maintained your bike is.. If wheel bearings are jammed and engine oil is old or air filter is not clean then mileage will get effected. Follow the maintenance schedule given by your bike maker Make sure you have a proper wheel play (free movement of wheel) User better engine oil and maintain the scheduled drain interval Make sure, disc pads are not touching the disc plate Keep your air filter clean Replace parts when needed (bearings / clutch plate) Keep your spark plugs in proper condition Carb tuning / Fi CO adjust (Bajaj Only) In case of carburetor based bikes like Bajaj Pulsar (150 / 180 / 200 / 220) or TVS RTR (160 / 180) or Yamaha (FZ-S / FZ16 / Fazer) or Hero Honda 150cc products and Karizma R (ZMA), please pay attention to proper carburetor tuning. Carb is a part of the bike which controls AFR (the Air Fuel ratio). If the bike is running too lean mixture (more air less fuel), it will harm the engine but will produce more mileage figure where as a rich mixture (more fuel / less air) will increase the acceleration and performance but will burn more fuel. Obtaining a proper tuning in important, you may refer to company service center for the process. For Bajaj P220 DTS Fi only, one has to check for CO and adjust it in every 2000 to 2500kms at PBK service points. Tyres Tyre and tire pressure also play a major factor in mileage figure. Always run your bike with proper tire pressure. Be careful while checking your air pressure from road side tire shops. Their analogue meter provides false reading compare to more accurate petrol pump / bunk based digital options. Please consult your user manual for accurate measure of air which should be in your front and rear tire. Change your tire when its needed, do not run with ear out tire for too long and use manufacturer recommended tire only, as more fat / big tires will consume more fuel !!! Traffic and terrain condition Bumper to Bumper City traffic, lots of clutch and breaks, stop n go -> less mileage Hilly area where your bike is working extra hard to climb -> less mileage Open free / expressway / highway where you are cruising without any break or clutch -> Best mileage Weight of the rider and pillion Weight on the bike matters too. Singer rider will obtain better mileage figure than rider with a pillion.
Which petrol to use / Normal unleaded vs Premium or power or speed petrol Petrol prices are in ever increasing graph. In last 5 years they have went up from Rs. 42/45 mark to Rs. 65 mark. On top, the market research and analysts report of more increment in these numbers. From yeah 2000 since when Government of India made it mandatory for oil PSU to sell only unleaded petrol, we have 3 category of petrol sold in India. Normal (unleaded) Premium petrol (Power -> HP / Speed -> BP / Extra Premium -> IOC) High octane petrol (Speed octane 97 -> BP) The difference of octane number between normal and these premium is really low, 91 or 93 compare to octane 89 for normal. However usually these premium petrols are around Rs. 5 extra per litter compare to the normal version. So the big question comes in to all our mind is, which petrol (normal or premium) to use ? Will there be any benefit using premium or will there be any lose if using normal petrol ? If we look at our current domestic market, we would find myths are more popular compare to the actual facts. Around the world, government and individual studies show, matter of fact most of our bikes and cars do not benefit from using Premium petrol. (Google for more information and links for such studies) Only very very few super bikes and cars, like Hyabusa / Yamaha R1 or a Ducati 1198 would have an engine built for such high-grade petrol. Normal bikes which we use in Indian market be it Fi (fuel injected) or curb (carburetor), such as, Yamaha YZF R15 / FZ-16 / FZ-S / Fazer Hero Honda ZMR / Karizma (ZMA) / Hunk / CBZ TVS Apache RTR 16 / 180 Bajaj Pulsar 150 / 180 / 200 / 220 DTSi / 220 DTS-Fi / Avenger 220 DTSi Or any lower cc commuter models has no benefit in mileage / power or engine protection using premium over normal. Simply the engines are not meant to use the extra octane. So therefore, ANS 1 -> Sorry, spending the extra buck for premium petrol wont give any extra benefit whats so ever. On top, in certain extreme and unlucky condition and premium petrol may actually case problem or damage to the normal bikes !! How can IOC extra premium / HP Power / BP Speed may cause damage to normal bikes ? Most of the normal air cooled bikes like Hunk or Pulsar 180 have an air-cooled engine right on bellow the petrol tank, where as in case of R15 or ZMR, the engine is cover with fearing and sits enclosed and right below the petrol tank. Most of the time, these extra premium petrol sold in India comes mixed with synthetic additives. In certain extreme condition like when all these comes together, A lot of riding in 40(deg)C plus heat in a busy metro or big city day riding with higher RPMs. Like from 10AM to 2PM in scorching heat where you run at low gear but higher RPM. Engine doesnt get much air to cool down and heats up extensively. This engine heat rises up towards the petrol tank and thus warming it up.
The petrol tank is having low amount of fuel. Due to extreme heat in petrol tank, the bond of these additives and petrol gets loosen up. Additives are heavier than petrol and when they are detached from petrol in liquid form, they subside. If your fuel level is low and bike is in reserve, it is possible that the petrol suction nostril suck-in the heavier additives rather than petrol and when engine try to burn the fuel, it actually ends up burning the additives instead of fuel. This is very harmful for valves and piston rings. Similar to what would happen when burning poor quality petrol. This said action is rare but when all these above mentioned factors comes together, it may create this situation for your machine. Which petrol to use then ? Unless you own a R1 or such bike which has an engine developed and meant to utilize the high- octane petrol, it is wastage of money for using premium petrol. Matter of fact, in some cases, it is possible that the bikes engine may have harmful effect while using these additives mixed premium. This article is application / valid for the all Indian bikes, like below, Hero Honda Karizma (ZMA) / ZMR / Hunk / CBZ eXtreme Bajaj Pulsar P150 / P180 / P200 / P220 DTS-i and DTS-Fi Bajaj Avenger 220 DTS-i TVS RTR Apache 180 / 160 Yamaha FZ-16 / Fazer / FZ-S / YZF R15 What to check (PDI list) before you take delivery of your bike / motorcycle It is a very common question what we find coming to us from so many new riders who are going to purchase or take delivery of their first bike. Let it be Bajaj Pulsar P150 / P180 / P220 DTSi / Avenger 220 or Apache RTR 160 / 180 or Yamaha YZF R15 / FZ-S / FZ-16 / Fazer or Hero Honda Hunk / CBZ / ZMA / ZMR, question is, What to check and do (PDI -> Pre-Delivery inspection) before or at the time when one takes delivery of his / her bike / motorcycle ? The Oddo (mile meter) reading -> The oddo meter reading is a very important factor, please do look in to it make sure the bike has not done too much of under showroom. Some time showroom use these bikes as test ride purpose before you come to take delivery. As for fact, when Bajaj / Yamaha / Hero Honda or Honda sends out their bike, their oddo reading stays at around 2/3 kms. So make sure the bike you are taking is not having 25/30+ as its oddo reading.
Check for alignment of Fork, T & handle bar -> Check for the alignment of the Fork (front shocker), T section and handle bar. Some time although a new bike still it may come with manufacturer defect or something some showroom may try to sell you defective product deliberately.
Check for alignment of Disc plate (both rear and front) -> Put the bike in center stand and roll the wheels to check if there is any alinements problem with front or rear disc (if any) Check for alignment of both the RIMs -> Once again, put the bike in center stand to roll the wheels to check for alignment problem with the RIMs (front and rear) Check for tire wear & tear -> Look for tire wear and tear. This can give you a clear indication that if the bike have been used or not. Showroom can turn off the oddo meter but tire markings will give you a proper idea as whether the bike has ran or not.
Check for scratch in over all bike -> Take your time to inspect the bike fully. Check all fiber parts and metal to point out if there is any scratch or dent. Check for engine oil level -> Check the engine oil level. Make sure you top up if needed where as best is to change the oil before delivery and since the bike will be in running in, using Mineral engine oil of recommended grade. Check the coolant level (Yamaha R15, Honda CBR 250R, CBR 150R, KTM Duke 200, Pulsar 200NS) -> Check the coolant level both in radiator and in coolent storage for its level, top up if needed. Check the Radiator fins for any dents or Bents for any liquid cooling or oil cooling bikes like, CBR 250R, KTM Duke 200, Yamaha R15, Honda CBR 150R and Bajaj Pulsar 200NS.
Check the break fluid level -> Do check the break oil level in both the disc breaks (front and rear). Top up if needed If any of those point seem problematic, then do not accept the bike and request for another one. Showroom may trick you by saying, they will take care of the issue in first service but as per rule (check below for company given PDI check lists) they are suppose to do it before the delivery hence do not settle for any of their verbal promise of solving the problem in first service or such. If possible, be present at the time of company / dealership / showroom / service center or delivery center PDI (Pre Delivery Inspection) Every company has a set of check list for their delivery center / service center called PDI, which needs to be done before a bike can be called ready for delivery. Though its not mandatory but it would be better if you can be present there at the time of PDI by your self to make sure that all the given points are done. Below is few example PDI check list, from Bajaj for its pulsar series (P150 / P180 / P220 DTS-i) and from TVS for its Apache RTR 180.
Get your friend with you too.. Its best in your interest to find a friend of yours who can check the said things for you. Since two sets of eyes are better than one. Hence more eyes inspecting your bike is better for you to spot a problem if there is any. Another major point to follow right after the PDI is running in / engine break in guide. This article is valid for every bike sold in India. Namely, Bajaj Pulsar 150 / 180 / P220F / P220 street fighter Bajaj Avenger 220 DTS-i Apache RTR 180 / 160 Yamaha YZF R15 / FZ-16 / FZ-S / Fazer Hero Honda Hunk / CBZ / Karizma (ZMA) / ZMR Honda Unicorn / Dazzler / CBR 250R / 150R Bajaj Pulsar 200NS KTM Duke 200
Yamahas new Blue Core tech explained Yamaha has a new tech with a new name, but whats it really about?
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Yamaha FZ-S V2.0. Jul 2, 2014 Yamahas new Blue Core technology is a combination of engineering enhancements that the company is positive has helped make the FZ 14 percent more efficient than before, without sacrificing performance. So, what is at the heart of the new Blue Core engine?
Blue Cores gains are derived from three focus areas improvement of combustion efficiency, reduction of power loss and more precise control of fuel supply. Externally the only obvious change on the FZs motor is the fuel-injector in place of a carburettor. The closed loop fuel- injection system provides precise control of fuel supply; however, Yamaha claims that in the future the Blue Core philosophy will be applied to non-FI engines in the portfolio as well. On the inside, Yamahas Indian R&D arm has made extensive changes to improve combustion efficiency. The two-valve head has a new design for the intake port and the formerly offset valves are now aligned for better flow. The combustion chamber has also been optimised for better burning.
If you look at the specs, you will notice that the now 149cc V2.0 FZ-FI bikes peak power of 12.9bhp and peak torque of 1.3kgm are lower than before. This is partly because displacement has dropped marginally to 149cc because the bore has been reduced to 57.3mm, reducing friction. The knock on effects reach further, as you gain a lighter piston, lighter connecting rod and a crankshaft; which improve the motors response to throttle inputs. Yamaha has also introduced a smart electrical charging system, which reduces the charge drawn from the dynamo when the electricity consumption is lower. For instance, during the day when the headlight is not being used, the system will draw less power and reduce drag torque on the engine, which again works towards improve efficiency.
On the road, it is clear that Yamaha has been able to maintain performance levels even though the new FZ with FI is down in terms of power and torque. A lighter chassis, altered gearing for final drive and the Blue Core engine have made the FZ FI more responsive and ever eager to rev, while also enhancing refinement.
Despite the improvement in engine character and performance, with Blue Core, Yamaha should be able to deliver better fuel-efficiency to the frugal riders. The FZ FIs fuel-efficiency is expected to nudge above the 50kpl range in the real world, although we will soon put it through a road test just to make sure.
Yamaha FZ-S V2.0 first ride, review A quick ride around the block confirms Yamaha's new FZ has stronger mass appeal.
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Jun 30, 2014 DETAILS Make Yamaha Model FZ - S Edition V2.0 9 photos
Yamaha FZ-S V2.0
An acknowledged pioneer of performance biking in India, it's been a while since Yamaha brought exciting new bikes to the Indian two-wheeler market. Apart from large capacity superbikes, and upgrades like the V2.0 variant of the YZF-R15, it's been years since Yamaha got our pulse racing. The 150cc FZ's, the Fazer and R15 were its last big splash, back in 2008, before their momentum slowed in the fast paced market of KTM Dukes, Pulsars, RTR's and even Karizmas.
Now beating out a stronger biker beat, Yamaha is offering new FZ variants, the V2.0 FZ and FZ- S. The latest FZ remains a macho, rugged looking and muscular naked bike. Minimal body panels clad the latest gen FZ's. The new Yamaha rides on elegant black, slim-spoke alloy rims, with racy stripes running their circumference. The instruments are new, broad, as well as easier to see, all digital and including a fuel gauge. The V2.0 comes with top drawer switches, a comfortable set of control levers and supple, good quality palm grips. Its mirrors are likewise functional and easily adjusted. The new bikes come with broad tanks, with recesses that offer snug knee and thigh grip. The new FZ exudes a nice, powerful profile, thanks to its massive tyres, and there's a sporty looking Oring sealed drive-chain.
As is common across all Yamaha bikes in India, this next gen FZ shows off excellent build quality, fine attention to detail and good fit-finish. The Yamaha V2.0 FZ relies on the original bikes proven four-stroke, air-cooled Yamaha engine, now making 149cc, down from an earlier 153cc, albeit with the addition of fuel-injection.
The latest FZ comes with a light action clutch, and slick shifting, one-down, four-up shifted gearbox that operates via a toe-shift lever. Feel from both is identical to the older bikes. Well spaced ratios are part of the package, with the exhaust emitting a soft, still grunt-y enough note that sounds identical to the earlier models. Power is sadly down a full bhp from the original bike, 12.9bhp at 8000rpm now, which puts the new Yamaha below the segment par. Max torque is 1.3kgm at 6000rpm. Still, on the go the new FZ-S V2.0 succeeds to offer slightly improved smoothness, with noticeably crisper and quicker throttle response.
The bike revs faster than the earlier variants, with no taper in power even when pushing past its good bottom and mid range power spread. Acceleration feels about at par with the older bikes, and makes you wish Yamaha hadn't waited so long to bring the fuel injected bikes to India.
Few Indian bikes have provided as comfortable and a well balanced riding posture as the FZ, with its wide handlebar providing good leverage and allowing for quick, controlled turn in.
Flickable, the new FZ-S V2.0 does well to feel light, kerb weight now done a couple of kilos to 132kg. The V2.0's now split riding saddle feels broad and comfy. Fat diameter front forks are carried forward to the new bike, supported at rear by a single rear monoshock, adjustable and mated to a box section swingarm. Ride quality is good, neither too soft, nor overly firm. The FZ V2.0 does well to remain at the top of its class in terms of handling, cornering, stability and braking. New compound tyres from MRF work like a treat, the rear a radial, offering solid traction at all times. Confidence inspiring brakes are the norm on the V2.0, the front a single disc, while there's a drum brake at rear, both working together with progressive, powerful feel. This was always amongst the very best handling 150cc bikes in India, and nothing has changed on that front.
What's lacking though is that the latest Yamaha's doesnt deliver in terms of higher displacement, or improved performance, and loyal Yamaha fans will come away disappointed for not having a quicker bike to take on today's Dukes or Pulsars yet.
Look beyond that though, and the V2.0 FZ and FZ-S do deliver in terms of good value, unmatched handling and almost certainly with improved fuel economy as was earlier missing.
Pricing remains competitive, Rs 76,250 for the FZ, and Rs 78,250 for the FZ-S, both ex- showroom, Delhi.
Fact File Price Range (in lakhs)* Ex-showroom price Rs 78,250 (ex-showroom, Delhi) Engine Installation 149cc, single-cylinder Type Air-cooled Bore/stroke Four-stroke Power 12.9bhp at 8000rpm Torque 1.3kgm at 6000rpm Transmission Gearbox 5-speed, 1-down, 4 up Dimensions Length 1990mm Width 770mm Height 1030mm Wheel base 1330mm Chassis & Body Weight 132kg Wheels 5-spoke alloy Tyres 17 inches Spare 100/80 x 17 - 140/60 x 17 inches Suspension Front Telescopic forks Rear Monoshock, box section swingarm Brakes Front 267mm disc Rear 130mm drum