Testing the SZ16

Yamaha Motor Philippines recently released a new model of the “all around commuter” called the SZ16. 

The Yamaha SZ16 falls under the “naked” bike, manual transmission category together with the popular FZ16. I had the privilege of testing this new model during the Holy Week and my adventures brought me up to the Cebu Transcentral Highway and to the South Circumferential Highway. 

This new motorcycle is equipped with an impressive Air-cooled 153cc SOHC four stroke engine that produces a max output of 12.1ps at 7500rpm and a max torque of 12.8Nm at 4500 rpm. This is more than enough power for city or countryside driving. Power is transmitted via a smooth shifting, constant mesh, return type, 5-speed transmission which coupled with a 14-liter capacity fuel tank, makes for a perfect long drive touring bike.  The SZ16 is also equipped with an electric starter for ease in starting aside from the standard kick start mechanism.

The SZ 16 features the latest in Yamaha designs with the beautifully clustered meter panel complete with tachometer and a gear indicator. The semi cowling headlight design combined with the sculpted tank and side covers presents a sporty, modern look.

Riding position on the SZ16 is very relaxed, characteristic of a touring bike. The gear shifter is smooth thanks to the minimum gear shift mechanism.

When a bike has decent amount of power, it has to be safe too.  The SZ 16 is very stable at high speeds and surprisingly decent in cornering despite of its touring bike characteristics. The 17-inch alloy wheels provide better balance and stability on the road.  The suspension is equipped with the conventional telescopic shock absorbers which combined with well built, wide seats makes for a comfortable ride.

The SZ16 is equipped with disc brakes in the front and drum brakes in the rear which gives more than enough stopping power for a motorcycle with a 153cc engine.

The headlights have a wide illumination while keeping its focal point especially at high beam. The stylish dual taillight design not only looks good but is a useful safety innovation.  The switches for the signal lights and headlights are well placed and of good quality.

The SZ16 runs at approximately 18-20 kilometers per liter in the city and around 30-35 kilometers per liter on long drives.

With all the features that come standard with the SZ16, you would be surprised with its price.  The Yamaha SZ16 retails at PHP 66,900 and is available in 3 colors, red, black and white.

Its power, style, compactness matched with a reasonable price makes the Yamaha SZ16 a very well packaged motorcycle.