A review of the 2016 Yamaha FZR from Al Yousuf Motors
It was a hot May morning at Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach, where I was waiting to get a WaveRunner introduction by a professional. It did not take long before I could see a small dot on the horizon which was approaching at speed.
Water was splashing and the big white wake behind the WaveRunner was clearly visible as it headed straight for us. Shortly before reaching the dedicated water sports area on the beach, the driver showed his skills and did some sharp high speed turns in front of us, followed by jumps over the waves. It was obvious that these tricks were executed by a pro, who turned out to be no other than Ali Mohammed Yousuf Al Lanjawi.
If you are looking for speed and an adrenaline rush on the water, the 2016 Yamaha FZR should be your first choice. Yamaha claims the FZR is race ready and this promise is delivered. With its lightweight hull and as the biggest in its class, the FZR has incredible acceleration and speed on the water. The heart of the FZR is the intercooled and supercharged 4-cylinder 1812cc, 4-stroke, Super Vortex High Output Yamaha Marine Engine, which delivers its power to the water through a 160mm pump with a large 85mm exit diameter.
Ali gave me a quick run through of the FZR as well as some driving tips, highlighting the importance of using the kill-switch and wearing a lifejacket and a helmet before
getting on the water. He also pointed out that if you get a new WaveRunner, it has to be registered and licensed with the RTA before you can enjoy the Arabian Gulf. The FZR is certainly the right choice for a beginner, but should be handled with care until you gain safe driving skills. One thing is for certain: with an FZR you shouldn’t need to look for any upgrade.
Drivers should be aware of the immense power that they are unleashing when they push the throttle. In ideal water conditions, the FZR can take as little as 1.5 seconds to get from 0-to-50 km/h, and has top speeds of up to 120km/h. The hull handles this speed and power precisely and accurately, cutting through the water like a sharp
Samurai sword despite its weight of
approximately 400kg.
To have full control of this powerful watercraft or to cruise in comfort, the telescopic handle bar can be adjusted in height to perfectly fit the pilot. Pro racers actually stand most of the time to be able to handle the WaveRunner at high speeds and to navigate sharp turns.
With the aim of performance, the FZR does not have all the options offered by other Yamaha WaveRunners, such as RiDE – Yamaha’s dual-throttle control system that enhances reversing. But there are some useful features, like the flip-down re-boarding step at the back and storage compartments for soft drinks as well as a water tight storage box under the seat for a towel or valuables. It has manual reverse and a quick shift trim.
The FZR seats two people, so you can share the adrenaline rush and joy of a ride with friends or family. With 250 HP, the FZR is also strong enough to tow inflatables for even more water fun. It’s easy to see why professionals like Ali Al Lanjawi trust the FZR WaveRunner to represent the UAE at international competitions. I had a lot of fun on the water and there was certainly adrenaline rushing through my veins, even though my driving was far below the speed and skills of Ali. A big thank you to Ali for sharing his experience and knowledge with us and we wish him the best for his competitions in Europe, where he is representing the UAE and Al Yousuf Motors.
For more details visit Al Yousuf Showrooms across the UAE or visit www.aym.ae
Words By: Daniel Birkhofer
Photos By: Nela Macovei
