Yamaha FZ8s updated for 2013

Front-end suspension is a pair of upside-down forks, running 43mm inner tubes. Rear suspension is a linked Monocross unit - 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.

The adjustability of these front and rear units means riders can now set up the ride on their FZ8S/N to suit individual preference and riding conditions.

Also new for 2013 are clear turn signal lenses, and an all-new muffler design. The short, side-mounted muffler hooks up to a 4-2-1 exhaust system as per the previous FZ8S/N, but the new muffler is slightly slimmer, with satin silver front and rear end caps. A honeycomb type catalytic converter and oxygen sensor allow the bike to constantly adjust its air/fuel mixture for optimum efficiency and clean emissions.

The 779cc engine and all-aluminium frame, common to both FZ8N and FZ8S, is unchanged from the 2012 models. The engine offers a balance of middleweight accessibility with big-bore power and instant grunt throughout the rev range.

Steering is still fast and effortless on these big-bore nakeds, with the suspension adjustability expected to add to the FZ's surefooted confidence - whether it's cranked right over on a tight, smooth corner or slicing its way through traffic.

FZ8N
Sitting between the entry level XJ6 series and big bore FZ1s, the naked FZ8 is a best-of-both-worlds blend of performance and manoeuvrability, designed for riders who appreciate power, but don't need a litre-class machine for their inner-urban and main-road riding. The FZ8's aggressive styling and mass-forward design also comes to the fore on this naked model.

FZ8S
The semi-faired FZ8S is designed with longer rides in mind, with the fairing offering a good degree of weather protection. A blend of sportsbike performance and handling, the FZ8S's front cowl and screen make it a truly versatile machine for long and short rides.

Both models are available in 'Midnight Black' or 'Competition White,' with the former adding some matte finish panels, instead of the all-gloss black plastics of last year.

Both updated 2013 FZ8s are available now from Yamaha dealers Australia-wide. Pricing is listed at $12,990 for the naked 'N' model and $13,990 for the half-fairing 'S' model.

See your Yamaha dealer for further details.