FZ6 / FZ1 Feedback?

[Ruckabusa]

I'm really toying with the idea of getting an FZ6 / FZ1 for next season and getting rid of my ZZR.

I love my ZZR but after riding a friend's ninja 500r I've been toying with the idea of a more upright/raised handle-bars type bike. I just love trading off with my buddy when we cruise haha.

Originally I was kind of considering switching to a ninja 650r but I know I'd miss the power of my zzr. Main thing is in January I'll have graduated from my community college and I'm moving to a university where I'll be 3 hours away from home and doing a lot of trips back home and I intend most of those to be on my bike. The ZZR is comfortable around town but I do tend to get uncomfortable on long rides.

After looking at the FZ6/FZ1 it just looks ideal, still maintains the power performance I want, looks like it maintains the lighter style bike I want - I really want to stay away from a large sport-tourer after my first bike my 01 katana 750.

Does anyone here have any personal experience on the FZ6/FZ1 that can give me advice on purchasing one or what you think of it in terms of a highway cruiser that can still perform where it counts?

Big draw for me is how cheap they are, I shouldn't have an issue selling my zzr for the amount it'll take to buy a 06+ model with low miles, at least an FZ6.

 

[Drobium77]

I used to own a 2003 FZ6 and although it handled well, the seat was one of the most uncomfortable I've ever come across on a bike (and I've owned 24 bikes in 17 years!) also there was a weird misfiring problem that my dealer thought I was making up until Yamaha recalled all bikes to have it sorted, but by that time, I'd changed it for a Thundercat, which was a much better bike by about 250%.
Also, the build quality felt very tacky and cheap and I also hated the rev counter coz it was difficult to read (and digital speedos are simply awful anyway)

I'm sure they're not all bad, but I had a lemon and I couldn't even make lemonade. :-D

 

[extreme601]

I've got an '04 FZ6. It's absolutely bulletproof, never had any issues. Powerful and comfortable. Toured Scotland on mine and would do so again in a heartbeat

I've never lost a race off a green light, yet can do hundreds of motorway miles and still be up for many more. As long as you find one in good nick, you'll love it, just as I do!