July 31, 2010

MOTOCYCLES COMIOT: THE IMPRESSIONIST'S CHOICE


Nearly the entire contents of the Musée d'Orsay has been shipped to San Francisco's deYoung Museum for safekeeping, while jackhammers do their work to upgrade the old Parisian train-station-cum-Impressionist-museum.  Not to be outdone, our sturdy replica of the Legion d'Honneur, just up the road, has the 'City of Light' show, all about late 19th Century Paris, using the remarkable contents of the Achenbach Foundation's collection of art on paper, which includes much 'commercial' work by post-Impressionist notables like Toulouse Lautrec, Alphonse Mucha, etc.

The largest print on show (at some two metres tall) is an advertisement for 'Motocycles Comiot' from 1899, drawn by Théophile Alexandre Steinlen (most famous for his 'Chat Noir'), who clearly considered the noisy three-wheeler not especially artworthy, and has nearly obscured the tricycle behind spooked geese and milady's voluminous skirting.  Still, Steinlen saw the machine, and has given at least an indication of its merits; all black paint, with various hand controls bolted to the top frame rail, and long steel levers for the brakes, á la bicycles of the period...the front pads dangling over the tire for a beastly method of retardation, shortly never to be seen again.


What would be seen again in short order is milady herself, piloting a motorized bicycle or tricycle along the muddy unpaved tracks of the countryside, undaunted.  This poster could well be our first image of a woman on such a vehicle, and it wasn't a flight of artistic fancy - women were right there among the first riders of bicycles and motorcycles, bucking 'feminine' conventions of the day and enjoying that familiar addictive sensation of powered motion under her control.  Steinlen hasn't sexualized his rider or cast her as goddess-slave, she is simply a woman of the period, smartly dressed, riding the Future.

What a remarkable historical juncture; into the world of the Moulin Rouge, Monet's gardens at Giverny, and Degas' pastel ballerinas, chuff the ancestors of all Motorcycling, nosing their way into the artwork of the period, with a woman at the helm.  Cheeky.


(Mr. Comiot participated in the 1897 Paris-Dieppe Trial on a De Dion-Bouton tricycle, winning 17th place; perhaps he felt he could have won on a machine of his own devising, and by 1898 we find Comiot tricycles using De Dion engines, a few of which survive today.  I found the photos above from the Royal Veteran Car Club of Belgium.  
 FYI, an example of this poster sold at Sotheby's last June for 24,000euros. )

July 26, 2010

MYSTERY RACER

A curious racing motorcycle appeared in my mailbox today, of an engine configuration I've never seen.  I have an idea that the chassis is a Smith frame from Australia, which was a scaled-down Norton Featherbed built to house mainly Velocette engines for 250cc racing, and which was based on the Beasley frame from England.  That this machine uses Velocette forks, gearbox, and wheels supports the theory.  Typically, Velo MOV pushrod engines were used in such frames, often with special cylinder heads in bronze or aluminum cast by enterprising tuners such as Carey.  Some frames housed sleeved-down KTT engines, which were certainly heavy but fast and durable.
Australian racers did battle far away from the epicenter of the motorcycle industry; spares took months to arrive, and tuning advice dispensed in a mere trickle from the factories.  So, the 'bush tuners' made their own racing heads, frames, or whole engines.  It appears this curious motor is entirely home-made, and appears to be an 'OP' (opposed piston) engine, in which two oppposed crankshafts move two pistons towards each other in a common cylinder barrel, forming between them the combustion chamber at the top of their stroke.  Fairly common in marine applications and sometimes aircraft, such an engine is very rare on a motorcycle!
There are as many variants on the internal combustion engine through its nearly two-century existence, as there are dinosaurs with outlandish teeth, armor, and body shape.  And, most are equally extinct, for the moment.
Can any readers shed light on this machine's history?

July 24, 2010

OTHER PEOPLE'S GARAGES #6


There are garages where motorcycles rest, waiting for a spot of attention from a devoted owner, or even better, a ride in the sun.  There are garages where motorcycles rot, sitting endlessly, slowly evaporating from inattention.  There are garages full of projects, waiting for the time which usually never comes, while small parts scatter like mice under the feet of distracted owners.


Some garages are palaces, some are shrines, some are nightmares.  And on rare occasions, you are led to a garage which is a haven, an evocation, rich with the possibility of adventure, where every motorcycle has a fine sheen of oil, and looks as if it has just been ridden.  And Every. Single. Motorcycle. Runs.


I was treated to just such garage today, a remarkable thing, whose keeper has for decades held a watchful eye for unrestored and original motorcycles.  Yes, there are a few shiny bikes here, but not many, and the gloss of new chrome in such company seems merely thin, the piping voice of a student in a room of pipe-smoking sages.


The magic of old paint and oxide and oiled steel is the promise of a Story - every dent, every flaw, every rough and rust-pitted wheel, all speak to decades of experience, places traveled, adventures of youth and speed, small tragedies, joyous bursting spring days on empty roads and a rising throttle, earnest hands oily and tending to the needs of the beast.


And the special effect of an unrestored machine is telescoping past all those years of use, neglect, sleep, and resurrection, to see straight back to the maker's finish as it left the factory; not an accurate copy but the real deal, no arguments...just take your education here sonny boy, this is how it was.


And for such a man's efforts, his good sense to preserve a library in metal and oil and rubber, a place where the feel of the past can be learned as by braille, we are thankful.

July 21, 2010

COCTEAU, ORPHEUS, AND MOTORCYCLES


On a recent visit to the south of France, I discovered a museum devoted to Jean Cocteau, one of my favorite filmmakers, whose symobolic use of motorcycles left a deep impression on me as a young man.  The musuem, in a 17th Century fort, is charming and full of pebble mosaics Cocteau himself designed.  A new museum is being built nearby for a far more extensive collection of his work.


In 1949 Jean Cocteau (above) began filming an adaptation of the Orpheus myth, set in contemporary times, with his own spin on the story which bore relevance to his own life at that moment.   Famous as a poet and playwright/producer before WW2 in France, and afterwards for his stunning adaptation of 'Beauty and the Beast' ('La Belle et la Bete', 1947 - still the finest film version of the story), Cocteau sought to solidify the success of 'Beauty' with an experimental version of the ancient tale.


In the Greek original, Orpheus is a great poet whose singing can charm the birds, trees, people, rocks.  He marries the beautiful Eurydice, but she is bitten by a poisonous snake on their wedding day and dies.  Orpheus follows her to the realm of Hades, enchanting Charon, ferryman of the dead, to carry him across the river Styx to the land of shades.  Orpheus even enchants Hades, lord of the underworld, who allows Eurydice to return to the land of light, on the condition Orpheus not look at her until she reaches the surface.  He forgets himself when he sees light, and Eurydice fades away as a shadow.  Orpheus tries again to enter the Underworld, is refused, and wanders the woods, playing music, until the Bacchantes (Maenads, frenzied women) tear him limb from limb.  His head floats down the river, singing, and his body parts wash up, ironically, at Lesbos.


In Cocteau's version, Orpheus is a poet whose fame is great, but who lacks respect from the new, young, existentialist/beatnik poets who drink at the Café des Poétes.  While visiting the café, Orpheus is disrespected by the very drunk but hot new poet Cegeste, who is shortly killed by a pair of motorcyclists roaring through town.  A rich woman in a Rolls Royce (the Princess), who escorted Cegeste to the cafe, orders Orpheus to help carry the body of the young poet in her car.  It is revealed to Orpheus that she is Death, or one of many such embodiments, and the intimidating and lethal motorcyclists are her henchmen.  Orpheus and Death fall in love, and Death sends Cegeste's poetry through the radio in her Rolls to Orpheus, who becomes obsessed with the poetry and Death, and ignores his beautiful wife Eurydice.


Death, jealous, has her henchmen kill Eurydice, and Orpheus follows her to the Underworld through a mirror (simple and effective special effects are used involving dual film stocks, reversed footage, and a 2-ton tub of mercury!).  For interfering with Life, the Princess must stand before a tribunal in a ruined building (much of the Underworld is a bombed-out French military school), for it seems that while nobody really gives the orders for who is to live and die, such orders echo through Hades like the sound of drums. Orpheus wins Eurydice back to Life, but catches a glimpse of her in the rear-view mirror of the Rolls.  The Bacchantes, habitués of a lesbian beatnik bar, are furious that their former bar-girl Eurydice is dead, and kill Orpheus.


The effects used in the film are simple and evocative, and his use of motorcyclists as the Henchmen of Death is very effective; the sound of their engines approaching is the cue that someone is about to die; the bikes roar into the scene for a shadowy instant, then blast away down the road, leaving a body sprawled on the pavé.


As it turns out, Death rides an Indian!  Two in fact; the machines used in the film look like a '37 Chief and a '40 Sport Scout with early skirted fenders.  I was surprised while researching this article that the two machines used are mismatched, but there you have it; Orphée was made on a very limited budget.  He probably borrowed the studio head's Rolls...


The Henchmen's outfits are actually very standard motorcycle gear for '49 - leather helmets with shaded goggles (a darkened half-lens can be flipped up or down; I have a pair), dark wool shirts and trousers, gauntlet gloves, and wide leather kidney belts.  The costumes for the film are slightly exaggerated (gauntlets and belt are a bit wider than normal), but emphasize a kind of menace which a motorcycle policeman of the era would recognize, and utilize as an effective tool of intimidation.


All motorcyclists intuitively feel the visual power of a helmeted rider - and some clearly think that's the best part of motorcycling.  If we're honest with ourselves, I think we would all acknowledge the thrill of that dark power.  There's an alchemical transformation of a rider on a motorcycle; the erotic bond of human/machine is what makes them so irresistible, and so powerful to watch.


Cocteau recognized this, being a student of mythos.  There's even a scene, he couldn't resist, in which an armed Rider momentarily stands next to a statue of Venus, the dark rider ready to kill next to the white nude marble of Love -  Eros meets Thanatos indeed!

July 15, 2010

YAMAHA Fazer8 (2011) pictures | specs | insurance info |

YAMAHA Fazer 8 (2011) Motorcycle Pictures, Preview and Specifications.
- The Fazer 8 is set up for comfortable, fast road riding wherever you take it – whether it’s a high-performance city journey or a week away exploring the continent at full throttle. The front cowl and screen add weather protection and improved aerodynamics to a powerful sports bike engine and handling package. -

Motorcycle Pictures, choose by BRANDS>
YAMAHA Models >

YAMAHA Fazer 8 (2011)

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)





Features >

Technical Specifications

ENGINE
Type Liquid cooled 4-stroke,DOHC
Forward-inclined parallel 4-cylinder
Displacement 779cc
Bore x stroke 68.0×53.6mm
Compression ratio 12.0 : 1
Max. Power 78.1KW(106.2PS)/10000r/min
Max. Torque 82.0Nm(8.4kgf?m)/8000r/min
Lubrication system Wet sump
Fuel supply system Electronic Fuel Injection
Clutch type Wet, multiple-disc coil spring
Ignition system Transistorized coil ignition
Starter system Electric
Transmission system Constant mesh 6-speed
Final transmission system Chain
Primary reduction ratio 1.512(65/43)
Secondary reduction ratio 2.875(46/16)
Gear ratio 1st gear 2.692(35/13)
Gear ratio 2nd gear 2.063(33/16)
Gear ratio 3rd gear 1.762(37/21)
Gear ratio 4th gear 1.522(35/23)
Gear ratio 5th gear 1.350(27/20)
Gear ratio 6th gear 1.208(29/24)

CHASSIS
Frame Diamond frame
Front suspension Telescopic fork
Front wheel travel 130mm
Rear suspension Swingarm (link suspension)
Rear wheel travel 130 mm
Caster angle 25º
Trail 109mm
Front brake Hydraulic dual disc brake, Ø 310mm
Rear brake Hydraulic single disc brake, Ø 267mm
Front tyre 120/70 ZR17 M/C(58W)
Rear tyre 180/55 ZR17 M/C(73W)

DIMENSIONS
Overall length 2,140mm
Overall width 770mm
Overall height FZ8: 1,065mm
Fazer8: 1,225mm
Seat height 815mm
Wheelbase 1,460mm
Min. ground clearance 140mm
Wet weight (full fuel tank) FZ8: 211kg / ABS 216kg
Fazer8: 215kg / ABS 220kg
Fuel capacity 17 litres
Oil capacity 3.8 litres



Motorcycles Insurance

motorcycle.progressive.com
Choose Progressive motorcycle insurance for your bike or ATV and receive far-reaching coverage and specialized claims service from the No. 1 motorcycle insurance group in the country. For more than 35 years, our motorcycle insurance plans have protected bikes and riders. Start with a motorcycle insurance quote and get the motorcycle insurance you desire. From your motorcycle insurance quote through any claims you may have, our experts provide the peace of mind you seek when starting a motorcycle insurance quote.

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Customized Motorcycle Insurance and Fast Motorcycle Insurance Quotes
Progressive motorcycle insurance offers customized motorcycle insurance to fit your needs. Our Customized Motorcycle program features Custom Parts and Equipment (CPE)/Accessory coverage, Comprehensive and Collision coverage, loss settlement options, and more. A customized motorcycle insurance policy takes just minutes, too, starting with a motorcycle insurance quote. Get a motorcycle insurance quote today.

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Get a Progressive Motorcycle insurance quote. We offer a variety of motorcycle insurance coverages, including Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability, Medical Payments, Roadside Assistance, and more. Enjoy extensive coverage options with Progressive motorcycle insurance — get a motorcycle insurance quote today.

Motorcycle Insurance Quotes for All Types of Bikes
Choosing the right motorcycle insurance means sifting through the many motorcycle insurance policy options available. Progressive provides the information you need to get the best motorcycle insurance coverage for your bike or ATV, starting with a motorcycle insurance quote. Our motorcycle insurance quotes will help you find the right policy and price. Get a motorcycle insurance quote now.

From cruisers to scooters, you can get a Progressive motorcycle insurance quote for all types of bikes. Get a motorcycle insurance quote and see how our motorcycle insurance quotes can save you money, while providing the coverage you need. Don’t wait! Get a motorcycle insurance quote now. No. 1 in motorcycle insurance. Now that's Progressive.


Motorcycle Pictures, choose by BRANDS>
YAMAHA Models >

YAMAHA Fazer8 (2011) pictures | specs | insurance info |

YAMAHA Fazer 8 (2011) Motorcycle Pictures, Preview and Specifications.
- The Fazer 8 is set up for comfortable, fast road riding wherever you take it – whether it’s a high-performance city journey or a week away exploring the continent at full throttle. The front cowl and screen add weather protection and improved aerodynamics to a powerful sports bike engine and handling package. -

Motorcycle Pictures, choose by BRANDS>
YAMAHA Models >

YAMAHA Fazer 8 (2011)

Click Thumbnail to download (size 1600 x 1200 pixels)





Features >

Technical Specifications

ENGINE
Type Liquid cooled 4-stroke,DOHC
Forward-inclined parallel 4-cylinder
Displacement 779cc
Bore x stroke 68.0×53.6mm
Compression ratio 12.0 : 1
Max. Power 78.1KW(106.2PS)/10000r/min
Max. Torque 82.0Nm(8.4kgf?m)/8000r/min
Lubrication system Wet sump
Fuel supply system Electronic Fuel Injection
Clutch type Wet, multiple-disc coil spring
Ignition system Transistorized coil ignition
Starter system Electric
Transmission system Constant mesh 6-speed
Final transmission system Chain
Primary reduction ratio 1.512(65/43)
Secondary reduction ratio 2.875(46/16)
Gear ratio 1st gear 2.692(35/13)
Gear ratio 2nd gear 2.063(33/16)
Gear ratio 3rd gear 1.762(37/21)
Gear ratio 4th gear 1.522(35/23)
Gear ratio 5th gear 1.350(27/20)
Gear ratio 6th gear 1.208(29/24)

CHASSIS
Frame Diamond frame
Front suspension Telescopic fork
Front wheel travel 130mm
Rear suspension Swingarm (link suspension)
Rear wheel travel 130 mm
Caster angle 25º
Trail 109mm
Front brake Hydraulic dual disc brake, Ø 310mm
Rear brake Hydraulic single disc brake, Ø 267mm
Front tyre 120/70 ZR17 M/C(58W)
Rear tyre 180/55 ZR17 M/C(73W)

DIMENSIONS
Overall length 2,140mm
Overall width 770mm
Overall height FZ8: 1,065mm
Fazer8: 1,225mm
Seat height 815mm
Wheelbase 1,460mm
Min. ground clearance 140mm
Wet weight (full fuel tank) FZ8: 211kg / ABS 216kg
Fazer8: 215kg / ABS 220kg
Fuel capacity 17 litres
Oil capacity 3.8 litres



Motorcycles Insurance

motorcycle.progressive.com
Choose Progressive motorcycle insurance for your bike or ATV and receive far-reaching coverage and specialized claims service from the No. 1 motorcycle insurance group in the country. For more than 35 years, our motorcycle insurance plans have protected bikes and riders. Start with a motorcycle insurance quote and get the motorcycle insurance you desire. From your motorcycle insurance quote through any claims you may have, our experts provide the peace of mind you seek when starting a motorcycle insurance quote.

If you're looking for auto insurance instead of motorcycle insurance, we can help you with that, too. Progressive offers auto insurance quotes, motorcycle insurance quotes and more.

Customized Motorcycle Insurance and Fast Motorcycle Insurance Quotes
Progressive motorcycle insurance offers customized motorcycle insurance to fit your needs. Our Customized Motorcycle program features Custom Parts and Equipment (CPE)/Accessory coverage, Comprehensive and Collision coverage, loss settlement options, and more. A customized motorcycle insurance policy takes just minutes, too, starting with a motorcycle insurance quote. Get a motorcycle insurance quote today.

Motorcycle Insurance Quotes and Options
Get a Progressive Motorcycle insurance quote. We offer a variety of motorcycle insurance coverages, including Bodily Injury and Property Damage Liability, Medical Payments, Roadside Assistance, and more. Enjoy extensive coverage options with Progressive motorcycle insurance — get a motorcycle insurance quote today.

Motorcycle Insurance Quotes for All Types of Bikes
Choosing the right motorcycle insurance means sifting through the many motorcycle insurance policy options available. Progressive provides the information you need to get the best motorcycle insurance coverage for your bike or ATV, starting with a motorcycle insurance quote. Our motorcycle insurance quotes will help you find the right policy and price. Get a motorcycle insurance quote now.

From cruisers to scooters, you can get a Progressive motorcycle insurance quote for all types of bikes. Get a motorcycle insurance quote and see how our motorcycle insurance quotes can save you money, while providing the coverage you need. Don’t wait! Get a motorcycle insurance quote now. No. 1 in motorcycle insurance. Now that's Progressive.


Motorcycle Pictures, choose by BRANDS>
YAMAHA Models >

2011 Fazer8 YAMAHA insurance informations


Motorcycle Pictures, choose by BRANDS>
YAMAHA Models >

YAMAHA Fazer 8 (2011)
Features and Specifications
Pictures & Specifications >

Based on our successful FZ1 platform, the new Fazer 8 sports a 779cc, four cylinder engine that is tuned for plenty of low and mid range torque, making every ride an exciting experience.

Just like its naked FZ8 cousin, the Fazer 8 is a brilliant "all-rounder" that can slice through city traffic or apex a series of corners on your favourite twisty road. Attitude, power, handling and style, the Fazer 8 is an everyday sport bike you will be proud to own.

Fazer8 / ABS - Class, comfort, confidence – with serious power.

If you’ve only got room for one roadbike in your garage, choose one that ticks all the boxes – serious performance and good looks, plus genuine all-round versatility,

With a muscular, torquey 779cc engine, the Fazer8 breathes new life into the mid-class bike category. Open the throttle and enjoy the instant torque for easy overtaking and superb grunt around town. Keep it pinned for a shot of sports bike adrenaline with that trademark Yamaha top-end surge.

Comfortable, confident and classy, the semi-faired Fazer8 is a powerful companion – an all-weather all-rounder with the ability to make any ride a high-performance sports ride.

If you’ve only got room for one roadbike in your garage, choose one that ticks all the boxes – serious performance and good looks, plus genuine all-round versatility, With a muscular, torquey 779cc engine, the Fazer8 breathes new life into the mid-class bike category. Open the throttle and enjoy the instant torque for easy overtaking and superb grunt around town. Keep it pinned for a shot of sports bike adrenaline with that trademark Yamaha top-end surge.

Comfortable, confident and classy, the semi-faired Fazer8 is a powerful companion – an all-weather all-rounder with the ability to make any ride a high-performance sports ride.

The Fazer8 – serious performance, total versatility

Yamaha’s FZ range packages supersports performance into a versatile chassis for everyday enjoyment. The Fazer8 breathes new life into the mid-class bike category, with a bigger, broader spread of power out of the flexible FZ8 powerplant.

The Fazer8 is set up for comfortable, fast road riding wherever you take it – whether it’s a high-performance city journey or a week away exploring the continent at full throttle. The front cowl and screen add weather protection and improved aerodynamics to a powerful sports bike engine and handling package.

Hit the road with class, comfort, performance and confidence, every ride, every day.

Brand new for 2011
Yamaha is proud to announce two new motorcycles that open up a whole new class within the popular FZ sportsbike range - the FZ8 and the Fazer8. The FZ8-series is based on the idea of a high-performance all-rounder with the power and character to make every ride an exhilarating sports ride.

Following in the footsteps of the hugely successful FZ6-series - which, since 1998, has sold over 250.000 units - both bikes offer serious sports bike looks, outstanding handling and a flexible, powerful, torquey engine that encourages riders to explore its full potential.

It's an accessible kind of adrenaline: a shot of sportsbike energy, designed to be enjoyed every day.

These dynamic new sports machines are built on a new 779cc engine and all-aluminium frame. The engine offers a balance of middleweight accessibility with big-bore power and instant grunt throughout the rev range. It steers fast and effortlessly, and handles with surefooted confidence - whether it's cranked right over on a tight, smooth corner or slicing its way through traffic on a congested commute.

The naked FZ8 is a machine with attitude. Muscular, aggressive design gives onlookers a hint of this bike's serious intentions. Not a bike for beginners, the FZ8 is a pure expression of performance and quality craftsmanship.

With the semi-faired Fazer8, the emphasis is placed firmly on getting out there and enjoying the roads, whatever the weather. Discover sportsbike performance and handling, with the aerodynamics, wind and weather protection of a front cowl and screen. It's a solid step up in performance and quality.


779cc, liquid cooled, inline 4-cylinder engine
In order to arrive at the perfect power and torque spread for a mix of high performance and all-round usability, Yamaha threw out all preconceptions about engine size. The 1000cc and 600cc categories that largely divide the market are imposed by racing regulations, not road riding considerations. Many riders find 600cc supersport engines to be hard work on the open road - and 1000cc superbike engines to be overkill.

Yamaha's engineers selected a 779cc engine displacement to provide the perfect balance between the accessible performance of a 600 and the broad, instant torque and power of a litrebike.

The new FZ8-series engine is fuel injected, and uses both a throttle valve and an electronically controlled sub-throttle valve to provide additional control over intake airflow volume. The cylinder bodies have a bore and stroke from 68.0x53.6mm. Readings on engine rpm and throttle opening are processed in real time by the ECU, which operates a new stepping motor to control the sub-throttle valves and optimise volumetric efficiency in each part of the rev range. This is one of the many design considerations aimed at boosting low-middle drive.

Another key to the FZ8-series motor's flexibility is found in the large-capacity 7.8 litre airbox, where the air intake funnels are two different lengths - cylinders 1 and 4 have 125mm intake funnels, where 2 and 3 are 150mm in length, producing an excellent spread of torque throughout the rev range.

The FZ8-series engine produces 106.2PS (78.1kW) at 10,000rpm, and a generous 82.0Nm of torque at 8,000rpm - with a character that feels light, torquey and responsive down low but builds to a signature Yamaha top-end power rush.

It easily clears EU3 exhaust emission standards, using a short, side mounted muffler and a 4-into-2-into-1 exhaust system with a honeycomb type catalytic converter fitted at the point where the header pipes meet. An oxygen sensor feeds real-time exhaust information back to the ECU, allowing the bike to constantly adjust its air/fuel mixture for optimum efficiency and clean emissions.

Chassis and running gear
The FZ8-series features a new engine that is a stressed member in an all-aluminium frame. The design's high rigidity and low weight minimises frame torsion while providing outstanding high-speed stability and cornering confidence. The FZ8-series also uses a CF aluminium die-cast swing arm, enhancing the effectiveness of the rear suspension.

Front-end suspension is a pair of upside-down forks, running 43mm inner tubes. Rear suspension is handled by a linked Monocross unit - the link being designed to provide soft, light suspension near the top of the stroke to deal with bumpy surfaces in comfort, but then to provide firmer cushioning as the shock is further compressed, for sharper handling during hard cornering.

Front brakes are twin four-piston monoblock calipers, gripping 310mm floating front discs. Being monoblock designs, the calipers suffer minimal distortion under hard braking, so the stopping force is linear, stable and controllable when the chips are down. Both the naked FZ8 and semi-faired Fazer8 models are available with optional ABS.

The wheels are five-spoke cast aluminium rims - the front tyre is a 120/70 ZR17, and the rear is a 180/55 ZR17. This gives both bikes outstanding ride feeling, grip and cornering performance, with access to the full range of sports rubber.

The riding position is sporty but comfortable, with a seat height of 815mm and a narrow tank which gives the rider a good ground access. Overall ride experience is compact and light, with generous room for manoeuvring. Steering is quick and responsive, with an extended 33-degree left-to-right steering angle - making tight U-turns and peak-hour traffic busting much easier.

Muscular, mass-forward design
The FZ8-series consists of two models - the naked FZ8 and the semi-faired Fazer8 with a front cowl and screen. A short muffler, narrow tank and new 3-part tank cover instantly distinguish these bikes from their peers.

Visually, the FZ8 series evokes a pure release of energy in forward motion. The black side parts on the tank provide comfortable knee grip, and give the subtle impression that the coloured tank is breaking away and accelerating forward. The headlight unit on the naked FZ8 adds an aggressive-looking detail. In all, the visual impression is of a bike that looks fast even when it's standing still - and that sensually curved diamond frame and muscular 4-cylinder engine are still the stars of the show.

2011 Yamaha Fazer 8 model Features

• Real world comfort & ergonomics
• Stylish, wind beating ½ fairing
• A design study in understatement
• New 779cc engine
• Instant torque meets slingshot
horsepower
• Aluminium frame
• Semi-faired for comfort and sleek
aerodynamics
• Slim fuel tank and compact, roomy
ergonomics
• Optional ABS

A design study in understatement
An understated front end and civilised lines conceal an important fact - that beneath the Fazer8’s classy exterior beats the heart of a true performance sports machine.

Specially-designed 779cc engine
An all-new engine combines new cylinder bodies, crankshaft, top end and forged pistons with a new displacement of 779cc - to craft the perfect power curve and character for this new category.

Instant torque meets slingshot horsepower
The new FZ8 engine is designed for instant drive down low with a thick torque band – making it a lively machine even on shorter trips. But rev it towards the red line, and you’ll discover that trademark Yamaha rush of top-end power when it’s time to unleash serious sports performance.

Aluminium frame
The black, powder-coated Deltabox frame at the structural centre of the Fazer8 uses a low weight, high rigidity design - giving you outstanding highspeed stability and cornering confidence.

Semi-faired for comfort and sleek aerodynamics
The weather protection and sleek aerodynamics of a half cowl and screen make the Fazer8 even more comfortable and composed at high speeds and in changing weather conditions.

Slim fuel tank and compact, roomy ergonomics
The Fazer8 has a slim tank and speciallypositioned footrests and handlebars - for a riding position that feels light, compact and gives you the space to move.

ENGINE

All new, 779cc, DOHC, 16 valve (4-valves/cyl), liquid-cooled, 40 degree inclined, in-line four-cylinder engine. The engine has been tuned to provide plenty of low to mid range torque with strong yet linear throttle response. Redline is set at 11,500 rpm and features a "soft" rev limiter to protect the engine.

Pistons, cylinder, cylinder head, cams, valves and crankshaft are unique to the Fazer 8. Most other engine components are shared with the FZ1.

New, compact "Pent roof" combustion chamber design features 4-valves per cylinder and a 12:1 compression ratio for excellent torque feeling. Four valves per cylinder enhances the low to midrange torque.

Intake valves are 26mm in diameter while the exhaust valves are 22mm. The valve angle is set at 26 degrees to keep the combustion chamber compact

Crankshaft inertial mass has been optimized to achieve strong torque over a broad rpm range as well as fast throttle response. The inherent strong revving feeling of a line-4 cylinder engine is maintained.

"Fracture split" connecting rods are carburized for extra strength and use a nut less design. The lower end "cap" of the rod is made from the same piece of material as the upper portion; this design is known as "fracture splitting". This design aids establishing true big end roundness and greater precision in con rod dimensions for excellent durability despite the high horsepower loads.

Ceramic composite cylinder "bores" are a "liner less" design with the ceramic coating sprayed directly on the aluminum block. This coating allows for a thin film of oil between the cylinder and piston which reduces friction and increases power. Other important benefits include; excellent heat dissipation for consistent power delivery and reduced weight since there is no heavy liner.

Short skirt, lightweight forged pistons. Lightweight design aids in fast engine response and reduced engine weight. During the forging process, the aluminum is heated to the point where it can be shaped under pressure in a die but not to the point that it melts. By not melting the aluminum, the material stays stronger and hence can be lighter with excellent durability.

New, lightweight, hollow intake and exhaust camshafts provide incredible horsepower and fast engine response. Cam profiles and the cam timing are designed to enhance low to midrange power and torque.

Revised inline 4 cylinder crankshaft is based on the FZ1 design.

Automatic hydraulic cam chain tensioner reduces both maintenance and engine mechanical noise.

Mikuni "sub throttle valve" fuel injection system is based on the FZ1 design, featuring 35mm throttle bodies fitted with T.P.S. (Throttle Position Sensor). This style of fuel injection uses sub throttle valves in addition to the main valves to further control the intake airflow. The sub valves optimize the intake volumetric efficiency at all rpms and are powered by a stepping motor that is controlled by the ECU. The key benefit is excellent "ride ability" and throttle response.

The injectors are sequential high dynamic range type featuring 4 holes and a dual directional spray pattern for excellent power and a linear throttle response across the entire rev range.

The fuel injection's lightweight Electronic Control Unit (ECU) utilizes a powerful 32-bit processor for fast control of the injection process. The compact design also reduces weight.

New, specially designed 7.8 litre airbox features different intake funnel lengths for the inner (150mm) and outer (125mm) cylinders. The benefit is a wide torque curve. A high flow paper type air filter is utilized.

R1 inspired "stacked" 3-axis gearbox / clutch design stacks input/output shafts to centralize mass and keeps overall engine size shorter front to back. As a result, the stacked design gives the engineers the freedom to place the engine in the frame for optimum front to rear weight balance and thereby maximizing handling performance.

Smooth shifting wide ratio 6-speed transmission features optimized gear ratios for maximum performance in the "real world". 5th and 6th ratios are "tall" for reduced engine rpms at highway speeds for excellent rider comfort.

New, compact, heavy duty, multi-plate clutch ensures consistent, positive engagement. The clutch has been designed to provide a light lever pull for excellent rider comfort … especially during stop and go city use.

4 into 2 into 1 exhaust system features 35mm diameter, stainless steel header pipes and a short design silencer / muffler. The header pipe length has been optimized for maximum power and torque. This system is fitted with a 3-way honeycomb catalyzer with an oxygen sensor to reduce harmful CO and HC exhaust emissions. The oxygen sensor monitors the amount of oxygen in the spent gases and adjusts the fuel -air mixture via the ECU and FI system for maximum performance with minimum emissions.

High-efficiency "curved" design radiator features compact dual ring-type fans for maximum cooling efficiency. This rad and fan design allows more airflow than conventional flat design rads to maintain optimum engine temperatures for consistent power output.

Large liquid-cooled oil cooler maintains stable lubricant temperatures for extended engine life.

Convenient cartridge style spin-off oil filter.

Convenient oil level sight glass means easy oil level inspection.

Maintenance-free transistor-controlled digital ignition ensures great performance at all rpms.

Air Induction System (AIS … not ram air) reduces harmful HC and CO emissions for a cleaner environment.

CHASSIS/SUSPENSION
Gravity cast, lightweight aluminum twin spar frame provides an optimized rigidity balance for incredible sports performance combined with great stability. The engine is a stressed member of the chassis, allowing a lighter main frame design without sacrificing stability and light, agile handling qualities. The frame is the same spec and shape as the FZ1.

The riding position is one of the most important features of the Fazer 8. Based on the FZ1 layout, it offers a balance between a sporty riding position and excellent rider comfort thanks to its upright design.

Key chassis geometry figures include: 1460mm (57.5") wheelbase, 51% front and 49 % rear weight balance, 25 degrees of rake and 109 mm of trail. The 47 degree lean angle highlights the Fazer 8's8 sporty side.

Detachable steel rear sub frame allows easy access to rear suspension components and reduces costs in the event of a "loop-out".

C.F. (Controlled Filling) die cast aluminum truss-type rear swingarm offers great rear wheel control and traction for razor-sharp cornering and superb stability at speed. The 3-axis stacked engine design allows enough room for the engineers to use this long design (690mm) swingarm, which minimizes the effect of the chain tension on the bike's handling.

43mm Kayaba inverted fork offers 130mm (5.1") of wheel travel. Fork offset is 25 degrees. The benefits of the inverted design include, reduced "unsprung" weight and reduced fork flex since the larger diameter tubes are gripped in the triple clamps. Unsprung weight is weight or mass of the suspension and the components such as the wheels and other components that move with the suspension. A reduction in unsprung weight allows improved control of the suspension function.

Lightweight aluminum upper and lower triple clamps.

Link-type Monocross rear suspension features a preload adjustable shock that allows the rider to tailor spring preload to match load and/or road conditions. Adjustments include 9 - way spring preload. Rear wheel travel is 130mm or 5.1"

Dual 310mm floating front discs are squeezed by ultra rigid 4-piston, monoblock calipers which provide outstanding stopping power and feel. The master cylinder utilizes 16mm piston for outstanding stopping power with less lever effort.

267mm rear disc is squeezed by a lightweight single piston slide-type Nissin caliper with sintered metal brake pads.

Lightweight cast-aluminum 5-spoke wheels reduce unsprung weight for great handling characteristics. The front wheel is an MT3.50-17 and is fitted with a 120/70-ZR17 radial tire. The rear wheel is a MT5.50-17 fitted with a 180/55-ZR17 radial tire.

Eye catching, half fairing offers surprisingly good wind and weather protection. The windshield features a special vent that allows some airflow behind the screen to help prevent the "vacuum effect" and to help reduce buffeting.

Dual "cat eye" halogen 60/55 watt headlights.

Conventional handlebar design features an upright positioning for maximum everyday riding comfort.

17-liter fuel tank offers a slim design with great knee grip. The reserve portion of the tank is 3.4 litres.

Separate rider and passenger seats offers exceptional solo or two-up comfort. Seat width is narrower than the FZ1, making it easier to touch the ground. Seat height is 815mm (32.1")

One-piece race inspired instrument features analog tachometer, digital speedometer, odometer, dual tripmeters, fuel gauge, fuel reserve tripmeter (counts kilometres since the fuel went on reserve), clock, coolant temperature and a self diagnosis mode.

DETAILS
• Integrated passenger grab rails
• Adjustable, 5-position front brake lever
• Small storage compartment under the passenger seat
• Folding mirrors
• Excessive lean angle engine cut-out switch … if unit is on its side the engine will shut down
• Extended idle cut-off … if engine idles for more than 20 minutes it will automatically shut down
• Lockable steering
• Durable "O"-ring-sealed drive chain
• Lightweight, sealed low-maintenance battery
• The "Fazer" offers a significant level of power and performance. It is not intended for novice or inexperienced riders.

Accessories

A range of genuine Yamaha functional and styling accessories is available to enhance the looks and extend the capabilities of the FZ8 and Fazer8.

The range includes:
" Higher windscreen for the Fazer8
" Stylish flyscreen for the FZ8
" Seat cover
" Subcowling
" Rear carrier
" 46L Topcase
" Passenger backrest for 46L topcase
" Innerbag for 46L topcase
" Grip heaters MC 120
" Passenger grab bars for the FZ8
" Main stand
" Radiator cover
" Engine guards
" Roller protectors
" Stylish license plate holder (available in April 2010)
" Tankpad
" Stylish LED indicators in black, chrome and carbon look (available end May 2010)
" TF Touring tank bag for the Fazer8
" TF City tank bag for the FZ8

Apparel

Yamaha offers a wide range of apparel, designed to keep riders and passengers stylish and protected. The apparel range includes the following riding gear among others:

" Yamaha Speedblock 1pc and 2pc men's riding leathers in regular and long sizes, available in blue, black
" Yamaha Speedblock men's gloves, available in blue, black
" Yamaha Classic Kiron men's riding jacket, available in blue, black, red
" Yamaha Classic Venturi S2 men's and women's riding jacket, available in blue, red, black
" Yamaha Classic Venturi S2 gloves, available in blue, red, black
" Yamaha Iwata men's riding jacket and trousers, available in black
" Yamaha Iwata women's riding jacket and trousers, available in black, white




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