The all-new FZ6R, a bike designed for entry-level sportbike fans who are looking for something that is affordable, comfortable, stylish and, perhaps most importantly, offers "R"- (as in R6-) like performance.

New riders can expect to find an all-new steel frame and swingarm with comfortable and adjustable rider positioning to provide a bike that you won’t soon outgrow. The 784.86mm saddle seat height (FZ6 is 795.02mm) can be raised 20mm from the stock position, while the bars can also move 20mm forward by rotating the bar mount columns with the included tool kit. Compared to the FZ6 model, the handlebar is 12mm rearward and 12mm lower. The seat position is 4mm forward and 2mm lower than the FZ6.

A conventional non-adjustable 41mm Soqi fork mounts the front wheel, while at the rear we find a monoshock unit (also from Soqi) with just a ramp-type, seven-step spring-preload adjuster. At the front wheel, twin-piston sliding-pin Akebono calipers grip the dual disc rotors rather than the opposed-piston units found on the FZ6 and other pure sport machines.

As an alternative to the 180-size hoop normally used on 600 sport bikes, there's a 160/60-R17 tire from either Bridgestone or Dunlop at the rear of the machine, and both rubber formulations are of the sport-touring persuasion. But don't be disheartened by the short list of somewhat less-expensive hardware, because Yamaha spent money in many of the right places on this new FZ6R.

Power is easy to find. You don't have to rev it so high just to get to the fun part of the powerband, so the bike doesn't feel nearly as hyper or as intimidating (or as fast, for that matter) as some of the more racetrack-minded 600s around town. But don't think for a moment the bike is slow - it's not, just a bit tamer, easier to work with and more forgiving, which will make it rather appealing if you plan on commuting on the bike every day, something the R6 really isn't meant to do.

Comparing the FZ6R to the FZ6, one will notice the lack of punch at the whack of the throttle. The 6R has a milder state of tune, and this pays off with power being available at revs that are more easily accessible – no need to zing it to redline. The engine gains speed slowly but deliberately, accompanied by a slight buzz after 7000 rpm.

The FZ6R is a worthy option for someone who wants a practical and easy-to-ride bike yet wants some sporty styling and responses.