For 2018, Yamaha?s bang-for-the-buck champ returns with a new name, stiffer suspension and a mild restyle. What hasn?t changed is its Goldilocks combo of fiesty but manageable power and nimble handling. Photos by Kevin Wing.
We?ve been smitten with the Yamaha FZ-07 since it was introduced in 2014 as a 2015 model: it?s fun, inexpensive and has a lot of character for what some would consider a novice- or intermediate-level bike.
We?re not the only ones?Yamaha USA says the FZ-07 was its number one-selling bike in 2017, and that more than 15,000 were sold from June 2014 through December 2017.
Read our comparo review pitting the FZ-07 against the Kawasaki Ninja 650 and Suzuki SV650.
Naked sportbikes in general are becoming more popular as casual riders abandon the ultra-aggressive posture, power and price of pure sportbikes in favor of naked versions that deliver 80 percent of the performance along with real-world comfort and a lower price tag. Larger riders will likely appreciate the new, stiffer suspension settings, but had this 135-pound rider seeking out smooth curves. Michelin Pilot Road 4 tires grip well in the wet or dry.
Jenny’s Gear

Helmet: Arai DT-X

Jacket: Rev’It Airwave 2

Pants: Joe Rocket Alter Ego

Boots: Sidi Vertigo Lei
For 2018, the FZ-07 gets a new name?MT-07?and a light restyle, including revised suspension that is stiffer and employs more compression and rebound damping, a roomier rider and passenger seat (seat height remains the same at 31.7...