For a few months Ive been thinking of getting a commuter that's better than my KLR. I've considered several bikes ranging from GSes to Versys to WeeStroms, but I think Im going to pull the trigger on a 2009 Yamaha FZ6.
Ive been looking for something I can commute on that gets good MPG, is comfortable and closer to the ground, easy/cheap maintenance, better headlight, aftermarket support and can double as a light tourer and handle two up for day trips. I think an FZ6 covers all of those items, with a few additional pluses, fuel injection, a centerstand, nearly 100HP and its just plain attractive. The only thing the FZ doesnt have that I would like is ABS.
Dont get me wrong, I love my KLR, its going to be very hard to part with, but it just doesnt feel like the right tool for the job Im doing. When I bought the KLR my plan was to do some trail and two track riding with my wife (she had a TW200 that we just sold) but we found out that she really doesnt like riding her own motorcycle and most of my riding has been commuting on the roads. At times we have taken small trips two up on the KLR. My wife and I are not small people (combined weight of 360-370, I wont go into the exact division) and the KLR just isnt big enough to be comfortable.
Ive been looking for something I can commute on that gets good MPG, is comfortable and closer to the ground, easy/cheap maintenance, better headlight, aftermarket support and can double as a light tourer and handle two up for day trips. I think an FZ6 covers all of those items, with a few additional pluses, fuel injection, a centerstand, nearly 100HP and its just plain attractive. The only thing the FZ doesnt have that I would like is ABS.
Dont get me wrong, I love my KLR, its going to be very hard to part with, but it just doesnt feel like the right tool for the job Im doing. When I bought the KLR my plan was to do some trail and two track riding with my wife (she had a TW200 that we just sold) but we found out that she really doesnt like riding her own motorcycle and most of my riding has been commuting on the roads. At times we have taken small trips two up on the KLR. My wife and I are not small people (combined weight of 360-370, I wont go into the exact division) and the KLR just isnt big enough to be comfortable.