"A DOWNGRADED small-capacity R1 engine and budget suspension" - that's Jon Urry's first impression of the 2010 Yamaha FZ8 and Fazer 8.
Jon's testing the new 800cc machines in Southern France and here are his first thoughts and pictures of the new bike.
"Engine is 2008 R1, same as FZ1, but new barrels and four-valve head, not five as on FZ1. No variable intakes either, as on R1. It was deemed too costly, so cylinder one and four have shorter intake trumpets than two and three, giving more bottom end.
"Chassis and swingarm identical to FZ1. Budget suspension: no adjustment on forks, spring preload only on rear shock.
"New plastics with narrower tank and seat, so shorter riders can get legs closer together for lower feeling seat height. New bars. Clutch redesigned to be lighter: less plates than FZ1.
"ABS is optional an extra although this yet confirmed for UK."
Check back later for Jon's first riding impressions.
