Yamaha FZ6 Buyers Guide - Everything to look out for!

In this video I will be going over everything you should look out for when considering a used FZ6 for purchase. Specs to all things mentioned in the video down below.
Specifications:
Front brake rotor thickness: 4.5-5.0mm
Front brake pad thickness: 0.5-5.0mm
Rear brake pad thickness: 1.0-6.0mm
Rear brake rotor thickness: 4.5-5.0mm
Idle speed: 1300RPM +/- 50
Charging voltage at 5000 RPM 14 volts
Chain slack: 45-55mm
Throttle grip slack: 3-5mm
Valve lash should be inspected every 24k miles or 40k km's
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[@chrisvlogz6206]

Definitely gonna be studying this video, I plan on getting one of these as my first bike

[@JM-wr2fo]

I'm in the market for one of these so this video has been massively helpful! And all your other content on the FZ6 is priceless, thanks a million mate! Safe riding :)

[@rockwell666]

An excellent video with some very useful pointers. Here's a post I wrote on Facebook a while ago and then saved for the next time someone asked a question about buying a used FZ6 (which happens fairly regularly...!) * * * * * 　 Provided it's had reasonable care taken of it, they're good, reliable bikes. Here's some stuff to check before you buy it... Firstly, the FZ6 drops into first gear like the Crack of Doom! 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 knackered (which is a bugger of a 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 dodgy 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 crud? 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 knackered bearings which would 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!

[@Calvinm]

Great tips! Thanks for sharing 👍

[@Mr_blueridge21]

This video helped me prepare so much when going to inspect a fz6 i was considering buying. Because i knew all the quirks to get the info i needed, i was able to determine if the bike was healthy and use some of these items to negotiate the price. Thank you so much calvin!

[@martpxvl]

Was it all good? 1 year later.

[@michaelprocaccia]

Great topic for today! Thanks for the video

[@Calvinm]

Any time!

[@haha-xj4rv]

This is the most comprohensive video on how to do a check on a motorcycle I've ever seen.. and I've seen a lot. Thanks so much! I recently got an 2004 FZ6 Fazer and while I've already bought it, I'm gonna check out everything you suggested that I missed. Thank you!

[@RetroDiver]

Watching your videos I feel like a Yamaha apprentice! Very helpful, Thanks!

[@Calvinm]

Haha thank you!

[@nathanielsweet7024]

Great info! In the market for an FZ6 so this helps a lot. Liked and subscribed 😄👍🏼

[@Calvinm]

It’s a great bike! You’d enjoy it. Glad you liked the video!

[@motionmediaco.7558]

thank you for this video really good, im going to look at a FZ6 today much apricated

[@Calvinm]

Hope you enjoy the ride!

[@souhailshamaissem7564]

Top video mate

[@EduardoJGG2002]

Gracias por tus videos sobre nuestra bella motocicleta!

[@Moeilijk18]

Holy f.. I've been seriously looking at fz6 naked and fazers for the last months and couldn't really find much to look out for. This video is perfect! Thank you!

[@Calvinm]

Glad you found the channel! Best of luck in your hunt for a FZ6.

[@lassetapani69]

Good video, thanks 👍🏻

[@randyphilipchuk5075]

I’m currently looking at picking up an 08 FZ6 and this info has been immensely helpful. I have much more confidence in assessing the the condition of the bike I’m looking at. Well done video thanks so much for sharing much appreciated.

[@Calvinm]

Happy to hear this!

[@sniebow]

thank you Calvin, I m consideing buying a fz6 myself and I have found your video series helpful at least.

[@Calvinm]

Glad to hear it!

[@neilhamill318]

I've owned two fz6n Yamaha's 06 and my current ride 07 model for the past six years. Good advice for new buyer's. They are great bike's . Ultra reliable and go a decent speed. Never had any issues at all with both bike's but they were maintained properly

[@marcelaorellana9805]

I just need you to know... You are amazing!!! I have a 207 FZ6 Rosie is her name My first bike 4000k when I bought her I don't know anything about bikes and you make it so comprehendable 😋

[@stringsnare]

this is an amazing guide.

[@rampagemotovlog29]

Thanks for sharing bro watching new friend from Philippines supporting

[@blacksy001]

Thanks for the Clutch Rattle Advise, did buy mine 2 days ago and was about to throw the clutch out and get a new one. Thanks.

[@Calvinm]

Glad I could help!

[@knoxbom3274]

I'm actually looking to purchase one of these it's an 07 with 5k on the dash. But definitely informative video bro

[@Jan-cg1pq]

Exactly what I needed! I want a Fazer for a couple of months now and I'll have my driving license soon. Thanks :)

[@Calvinm]

Enjoy the bike!

[@johnnycolorado8410]

Great video, thank you!

[@Calvinm]

Thank you 👍

[@piotrcybulski7628]

Nice video, thanks!

[@Calvinm]

Glad you liked it!

[@tsquine87]

Good video! Valves get quieter as their lift decreases

[@sank442]

bought my first bike last week, FZ6 N from 2005, and these videos are the best kind of guidance I can get to short out everything it needs to be checked on…I really appreciate it boss!

[@Calvinm]

Awesome! I hope you enjoy the bike and all the videos 👍

[@westondifranco9313]

I just bought my FZ6S and you have given me a list of things to check and fix over the winter. You gained a new subscriber and your video was spot on.

[@Calvinm]

Thanks for the sub! Hope you don't find anything too alarming over the winter haha.

[@westondifranco9313]

@@Calvinm The bike runs like a champ. Im ordering a battery charger. A full fluid flush, new pads and a few other maintance items. Your fz6 videos have been super helpful.

[@Rubenfz6]

Nice 👍

[@rapier87]

Thx a lot.

[@TOMYL27]

Thanks man 😊

[@Calvinm]

No problem 👍

[@slept-on_SP]

Going to check out the cheaper/detuned 2012 fz6r later today for hopefully $2.5k

[@blixxy1320]

really dig everything about the fz6. might pick one up for my first street bike

[@padraigmcconnell7015]

Cheers Calvin

[@madsparkpc]

Good video! Thank you) I would add a couple more points: 1) checking the fork for fogging. 2) Checking wheel bearings and steering column 3) check antifreeze level 4) checking the traverse, the spider, and especially the attachment point of the rear subframe (cracks often appear if you ride with a passenger or (and) baggage) 5) Checking the engine mounting points ("ears"). If there are sliders on the motorcycle (not crash guards), when falling, it sometimes breaks off a piece of the frame or engine. Never install sliders on FZ6, its very bad idea)) P.S. Sorry for my bad english))

[@Jan-cg1pq]

Oh yes, I've heard about the slider thing... Btw your english is flawless

[@madsparkpc]

@@Jan-cg1pq thank you! (And Google Translator:))))

[@DANTHETUBEMAN]

Check the wear pattern on the tiers, how far the bike is leaning in the corners can tell you how it's being ridden.

[@e30content98]

Great info! Good close ups of what your explaining. I just bought my 2007 fz6 with 9,500 miles. And i was wondering if the chain was too loose or not. Ill be checking it as soon as i get home now! Have you made a video about changing spark plugs?

[@Calvinm]

Thank you for the kind words! I have made a video on changing spark plugs, it was my very first video actually! Here's a link below to that video, best of luck! link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/pKiwkoZjhMuFors

[@bryanmedway3022]

Hi Calvin, I was hoping that you may know the best footpeg adjustment kits for lowering them on the FZ6 thank you in advance for your help Best Regards Bryan UK

[@PCDoctorUSA]

Glad to have found your channel after buying my first bike: an '04 FZ6 w/ 40k miles. A 600cc bike was by no means my first choice, but the owner had all the service records, title was clean, and license and registration were current. The metal surfaces of the bike were weathered, but the bike rode great and the local shop where I had the tires and chain changed out after the sale said the FZ6 is a very dependable bike. I noticed your side and top case racks. Can you provide me with a link of where you got them and which cases you use? Any pics of the cases in your other videos?

[@Calvinm]

Hey Barry, I have a video on my side cases. They are Shad cases and have been great. Link: kzbin.info/www/bejne/kGi2o4eparqWq6s

[@djlancer88]

Buying one tomorrow fz6 naked. One thing I noticed is the motor noise, none of it stood out as really bad sounding or detrimental. The bike is super clean so I was very to happy to hear that the motor is a little noisey. The valve lash will need to be done and plan on doing it myself I hope.

[@mikeprevitera5839]

I have the exact same bike with the same heated grips. I have lubed both cables and cleaned/lubed the tube but my throttle just doesn’t snap back like it should, it’s just a little slow. I have had this bike for so long I didn’t notice the problem until someone else road my bike and pointed it out to me. Have you ever had any issues with your throttle because of your heated grips? Also a topic for a future video could be how to properly wire the heated grips. I just have my connected directly to the battery.

[@Calty720]

I'm now a 3 hours owner of a 2004 FZ6 with 43k km - thanks for this video!

[@Calvinm]

You're welcome! Enjoy the bike!

[@kmetmosnja6341]

@@Calvinm what cable line did you use for testing voltage. I would need a more detail on that. Tnx

[@zach2872]

@@kmetmosnja6341 did you figure it out? i have the same question

[@to6ko9913]

Thanks

[@sawekkowal3988]

Lubię Cię oglądać z Polski

[@Ladosligese]

remember .. if the chain is to tight it will wear out ballbearing faster .. with a tiny bit to lose a chain .. your bearing will last for years and years

[@ethankeyte4072]

Hey Calvin, What lines are you hooking into for battery testing? Thanks, great video

[@kennethjohnson6223]

Enjoyed the video and subscribed my friend... I know of a 04 fz6 3,100 miles $2300 avail. and was doing some research on YT see if I really want it or not... not too crazy about sport bikes without full fairings tho.. guess that's the difference from laying down and sitting upright type of bikes? The only bike I really want is either a Ducati 1198S or Aprilia RSV Mille R but they both require mechanics/dealerships at least 300 miles away from where I live

[@Calvinm]

I think the FZ6 has just enough fairings to keep you protected from the wind which is nice. The riding position is much more relaxed than the Ducati or Aprilia you mention. If you want a fun bike for the street the FZ6 will be great. If you want a bike to take to the track the Ducati and aprilia would be great.

[@kennethjohnson6223]

@@Calvinm That does make sense... I would probably be riding on the streets most of the time and if I ever feel the need to go to the track add a track bike to my collection. I currently have a antique 1973 Harley Sportster XLCH 1000 that has been sitting up about 12 yrs.... engine needs to be gone through... last time I rode it started making rattling tin pans sounds tons of white smoke... I knew that it would not run Harley plugs as the rear piston would close the spark plug gap thus piston was coming up too high.. probably crank rod bearing or connecting rod bearing bad creating slack in the stroke...it would run split v plugs fine which was a hair shorter than Harley plugs...so now I may have a hole in the rear piston or blown rings etc......? I currently have been searching for a awesome deal on a dirt bike or dual sport 250 - 450cc or super sport 600-1000cc

[@stringsnare]

is this a good bike for beginner? debating between this and ninja 400. this bike looks nicer imo

[@lukaskavaliauskas6294]

Hi, I just looked at one motorcycle and it pulsates when cold, the seller says it's normal and when it warms up the engine works fine, what do you think, is it really normal? 2006 fz6.

[@kodakincade8063]

I just bought a 06 FZ6 with 20k miles on it. I was worrying about the idle cause after it’s warmed up it idles at about 1200. After watching this video I’m definitely gonna go out and check everything you mentioned.

[@Calvinm]

Enjoy the FZ6! I hope you don’t find any bad surprises 👀 haha

[@kodakincade8063]

@@Calvinm I checked everything, and it’s all right on. I was actually surprised that nothing was off even a little bit. Thanks for the tips. Btw you should make a video on how to install a gear indicator. A lot of people are making fun of me saying gear indicators aren’t for real riders but sometimes I forget if I’ve already shifted to 6th after awhile. And it would be nice to just have that little back up.

[@Mech.E]

@@kodakincade8063 agree, would like to see one too 👍🏼

[@kodakincade8063]

@@Mech.E I appreciate you not making fun of me man. Frfr. Every time I mention it to other people they talk mad shit to me.

[@sndoverkillyt3585]

Hello, wondering how much did you buy the 06 fz6? Looking at a used one from Facebook 2013 with 12k miles. Thanks

[@obeii1805]

This is a lot especially for a first bike owner

[@todddavis240]

Thank you millions Calvin, this is so awesome, great video, many thanks...I found a 2012 FZ6R Black with the cool red graphics, the bike looks brand new and is listed with 698 miles? I know I should check the age of the tires but, do you see "red flags" with only 698 miles on a 10 year old bike? I have yet to go to the dealership and ask if there's a story. But, this is a very large dealership and they have like 170 good looking barely used bikes all the way to 20 year old $3000 Gold Wings, so they probably picked up at auction IDK. Do, you suggest anything more to look at in this situation of "low miles/use"? This bike isn't even fully broken in is it? I'll look hard at the frame and the distances between fitment of the front ;) Wrecked and rebuilt is my biggest concern, I think I'll be able to tell......thanks so much pointing the way , I won't have much to check with 698 miles but, your advice has helped me know what to do and either walk away from something scary and weird at 698 miles or I've found that dream find older sleeper bike that's still brand new. And thanks for mentioning the engine sounds. It's a 2012 FZ6(R) 698 miles $5999 and it looks like a guy has been staring at it for 10 years in his garage, it's "clean" clean (What do you think?) Looks like a mini Katana susuki Wish I could take you with me bud, thanks again...I'll let you know what happens if you want ;)

[@Calvinm]

Could be a gem you found. It might be worth getting a carfax done on the vehicle to see if it's mileage has been registered from ownership transfer or work being done. If there is mileage registered in it's history then you've found a bike with a brand new odometer on an old bike... Little things would give away a bike being mismatched for it's mileage. Like check the wear on the handle bar grips, 690 miles would have the grips looking pristine. Look around the edges of the allen heads and bolt heads on the bike, none of them should have any wrench marks or scratches from servicing because the bike is new. I would change the oil immediately even though it's low mileage liquids don't last forever. Good luck!

[@todddavis240]

@@Calvinm Thank you for the advice. I have found a few like this, old but, extremely low miles, like you said, it just sounds too sketchy. I don't think a 12K rev almost super bike class is right for me anyway. I'm figuring out I want the old school Triumph experience, throaty rumble and gargles down shifting. I'm to old to play anymore Calvin, so enjoy yourself young man and thank you so much for caring about saving me from a mistake. I've been bitten by Triumph Lol maybe I'll live longer on a Triumph 660 anyway...keep those tires ;) down, thanks again calvin, peace

[@StoyanBashev]

Hi Calvin i have yamaha fz6 s2 2008 and i have a problem with my select button (not working) i tried to remove + on battery but still nothing.Can you help me

[@renaissanceengineering-lee4210]

You said ticking is normal and this is the first 2009 FZ6 I've owned with a stock exhaust. It sounds like I have a lifter tick but I don't know if it's normal or my timing chain. The bike has 10k miles on it, and the noise isn't a very harsh tick. It also seems like it's coming from the center of the valve cover and not the very side of the engine

[@Calvinm]

These bikes don't get the typically cold start lifter tick that a hydraulic lifter cylinder head would but they are rather clattery engines none the less. The fact that the sound is coming from the centre of the valve cover likely means good things for your chain tensioner. You could compression test the engine to see what the numbers look like but other than there there isn't much to do to determine the tick other than opening the head to assess valve clearance. If I were you though I would likely leave it till later when the bike is scheduled for a valve lash service. Good luck!

[@TheDioblo2345]

Should do one diagnosing an the fz6 slipping into neutral constant, always hit false neutrals going into 2nd... Apparently it's the shift rod or cable, but from what I hear it's a common problem with fz6's

[@h4xi0rek]

Try shifting more "decisively" and use the entire stroke of the shifter. If it does not help or if the bike itself falls out of gear by itself then probably the gearbox needs and overhaul.

[@TheDioblo2345]

@@h4xi0rek it was the shift rod, and some dumbass rear ended me (an off duty none-the-less) and I had to change the shifter as well... Now it shifts better than before

[@ONEFAITHofJESUS]

Do you know if the riding position can be adjusted to a fully upright position?

[@Calvinm]

Some people add bar risers for a more upright position on the FZ6

[@gablan1468]

I have a question, Calvin, why is it that many people tend to say the FZ6 is a great "beginner's bike"? What do you think of this? If it's a beginner's bike, then what should be considered some more advanced sport-touring bikes? Thanks.

[@Calvinm]

Hey! I don't necessarily agree that the FZ6 is a good "beginner bike". When ever I meet someone who wants to get into riding I always recommend something with less than 45hp as a rule of thumb. Basically something 250-400cc. On the other hand the FZ6 offers a comfortable and confidence inspiring position when seated on the bike. It has modern and powerful brakes for when things get sketchy, but overall I think it's a bit much for a first bike. For an advanced "sport-touring" bike I would point towards the Tracer 900 or a Ducati Multistrada or a BMW R1250 GS. These bikes are better equipped with luxurious features like heated grips and color displays but they are also often heavier and therefore more to manage at slower speeds. I learned to ride on an old 1984 yamaha XS400 maxim which was fun in it's own right. There's something to be said about a "slow" bike that can do wide open pulls through a few gears without breaking the sound barrier haha. On the other hand the FZ6 is a great beginner bike if you keep it under 8k rpm, but the redline is tempting and a new rider exposed to that temptation often doesn't end well. To each their own but if I had a kid that wanted to ride I wouldn't let them have a FZ6 as a first bike.

[@gablan1468]

Hey, Calvin! Thanks for getting back to me! Yes, indeed a lot of people (especially who do reviews for motorbikes) claim the Fz6 is a beginner's bike. I'm not sure if I'll agree that the R1200GS, Africa twin, etc are to be considered "the more advanced bikes", simply because they fall into (in my view) a completely different type of bikes, namely touring bikes. The HP:tonne ratio is in favor of the Fz6, which oftentimes has more power and is much lighter than the aforementioned bikes, but it is still not as comfortable as they are. This is why we say it's a sport tourer, and not just a touring bike like they are. I also agree with you that 600cc is a lot for someone who is sitting on a bike for the first time, plus I just can't think of any "more advanced" sport touring bikes than the Fz6. It is my fourth bike (I haven't owned anything bigger than 600cc mainly because of the weight and the comfort), and the Fz6 gives me everything I need, so I wouldn't say it's a bike for beginners. I guess people who give it that name tend to think that the next step would be jumping onto a completely sports bike (the R6 for instance), and that's why they say that, but again, that's a different bike type as well.

[@MrGodpasser]

Dues fz6's disk are mt07 disk too?

[@BarryFromEastenders]

Any opinion on this version vs the previous model which was changed after 2003. ? About to potentially buy one so im curious. People telling me the previous model is better built, more reliable etc. What you think ?

[@Calvinm]

The newer gen FZ6 is very reliable. Very few issues with it. Downsides with the Fazer 600 is the carburetors and older suspension and frame design. I would go with the newer FZ6 from 2007 onward.

[@BarryFromEastenders]

Isn't there a difference in spark plug location in both too. Newer one a pain in the ass apparently

[@BarryFromEastenders]

Why 2007 and not the 2005 one , was there additional changes since then ?

[@proto204n4]

I bought my 2008 FZ6 brand new and didn't know half of this info.

[@johne3999]

What if the fz6 doesn't even run? Cosmetically, it looks good and the seller says it won't take much to get it running (they all say that). It hasn't run in 2 years. That thing could have massive fuel/electrical issues. How can I quickly check the engine to make sure at least that part is good? and it isn't seized or has poor compression. In case I decide to take the risk and buy it. I definitely won't pay what he's asking though, maybe 1k tops.

[@frankieoneeye6217]

I own a fz1. Looking to buy a fz6 from dealer. 06 model. $ should pay.

[@alko2647]

Hey I’ll be looking at one tomorrow, it’s a 2005 with only 5,000 miles on it. What are some red flags for something with such low mileage? It seems to have a clean title and no scratches on the photos.

[@Calvinm]

Check for a rusty chain or stiff links in the chain. Also look in the gas tank for rust, it could have been stored without a full tank. Look for dry rot on the tires from age

[@alko2647]

@@Calvinm I think I got a really really good one! It has no scratches, no rust, all seemed to be maintained very well and it rips! Also best part is is only has 5,200 miles on it!!!

[@BoredMike69]

I just bought a 2006 with almost the exact same mileage. Found out after buying both wheel bearings were shot from sitting, needed a battery, and even though tires weren't worn they were originals so the rubber was old

[@MeLexdy]

The oil dipstick makes no sense... I can't hardly understand how much oil is in there and the are many cons I can think off...

[@Malignantt1]

Do you know if $5,900 is overpriced for a 2014 fz6r with 9000 miles?

[@NeverGoingToGiveYouUp000]

Yes, i saw in the market a 2012 version with 8k miles being sold for 3k. I'm going to go see it, usually I've seen the sell for 4k on average around the 2011-2015 range. Well that's in my area.

[@theeyesofastranger462]

How do you get into the seat lock I lost the key

[@Calvinm]

That's a tricky one, best thing I can think up is to cut the cable that goes to the seat lock and use a pair of pliers to pull the cable to release the seat lock.

[@maxepp]

great! the diagnosis mode, works in s1?

[@Calvinm]

Yes it will!

[@saintsrow2631]

40000 km spark plugs. No issues whatsoever

[@josephbeem5104]

Why do you call it F Zed 6?

[@Panda-pu2st]

Some people say “Zed” instead of Z

[@magendranponnuthurai1703]

❤😇🛵🤝

[@hornetxhd]

❌FZ6 ✅F zed6

[@Gottaloveguitars427]

In Canada we have safety inspections mandatory before selling a bike

[@Calvinm]

I’m in BC Canada and we don’t have mandatory pre sale inspections here. The vehicle can’t have any outstanding motor vehicle inspection tickets that the bike has received but there isn’t a standard inspection in BC at least. Maybe other provinces do though, sure would keep the rust buckets off the road.