We tested to Yamaha FZS on the same miserable day as several other water craft and it was interesting to ride different models in the same conditions. The Yamaha 2010 Yamaha FZS is a three seat water craft featuring a 1,812cc super charged engine delivering high performance and a sporty ride. We tested the FX on the same day, also a three
seat and despite the similarities, it was interesting to note the ride differences between the models.
The Yamaha FZS is their top end model and designed for aggressive riders. The crafts length is much the same as the FX but the similarities end there. The FZS features softer chines and an almost rounded hull that accommodates riders
happy to lean into corners in a fashion similar to a motorcycle. The 2010 FZS also sports a larger pump inlet which delivers better acceleration through corners and in a straight line.
While riding in choppy windy conditions, the Yamaha FZS kept spray to a minimum and rode the chop admirably. There were a few hull slaps particularly when cornering into the chop but nothing too dramatic. We assume this to be due to the unique hull design which provides great fun when sporty riding is called for. The hull feels sure when riding along but when you open her up the hull slides about when called for and still can really stick a turn with some weight placed on the outside of the turning hull.
Riding aside there is a host of handy features for this craft. The handle bar set up has an enormous range of motion and this comes into its own when riding standing up, yes sometimes it is necessary. The bar setup moves about 3 to 4 inches above its lowest level which does allow a rider comfort when riding in this fashion. The bar is moved by a simple mechanism located under the bars.
The Yamaha FZS still features the same lighter weight; NanoXcel hull material which they say delivers reduced weight while increasing strength. The hull is also exceptionally stable and does not tip
to any unnecessarily large degree. The designers have also continued to stick with analog gauges on the dash which compliment the craft.
The sitting position is extremely comfortable and we noted that the width of the craft between the legs was thinner than some others which is good if you are a smaller person. The Quick Shift Trim System (Q.S.T.S.) is mechanically operated and located on the left handlebar. Moving the trim up and down provides instant change to the ride characteristics of the FZS while underway allowing for tighter turns or quicker acceleration onto the plane. It offers 24 degrees of total trim range and is easy to access while riding.
Yamaha claim a massive 80.6 litre storage capacity on the FZS making it capable of stowing food, spare clothes and snorkelling gear if you so desired. There is a watertight storage compartment at the rear of the seat and a glove box which features two cup holders, and we thought only the Americans loved these in their boats.
The Yamaha FZS isn’t your typical brute of a watercraft but a refined sporty model balancing good looks and lively performance on water. It’s not a craft you manhandle about, but give it the care she requires and she responds in spades.
Also along for the ride on the test day was a Yamaha FX HO which was fitted out with a fishing kit. It included rod holder either side of an esky which attached to the rear of the craft and can be removed when not in use. Many consumers are seeing the attraction of a watercraft as a viable fishing platform and manufacturers have had to respond. We expect to see more and more of these kits on the back of all craft in the future.