Yamaha ZEAL review

A new one for the local market, using what we presume to be a detuned version of the Yamaha ZEAL - from a bike that has seen a significant number of grey import sales on our shores. The semi-naked allrounder package has a lot to offer someone who isnt after a hard-edged sport learner bike but still wants Nothing to write home about, really. An enthusiastic throttle jockey will overwhelm the suspension over a set of ripples, but the result is entirely predictable. There`s a single disc at each end, both fitted with two-piston calipers of different design. They do the job and the lever adjustment for the front handle is welcome.

However the bike behaves entirely predictably at normal and pushing-on speeds. Given plenty of revs @6000 the bike gets away from the lights well. You need 4000rpm up to get usable power, 7000rpm to hold 100 in top, and the powerplant signs off @11500rpm. There are a couple of dips and rises in the power delivery along the way.
The Yamaha ZEAL motorcycle has come up with a good compromise between a low seat height and still making space for bigger people. Only catch is that the saddle padding tends to hold the rider in one position, which could be a pain on longer trips. However the rear Yamaha motorcycles footpegs are pretty high thanks to the twin upswept pipes on the right side. Nothing intrusive, even at the upper ends of te rev range. Paint is good, though the human sports stickers on the tailpiece deserve to be pitched. The wiring behind the fairing looks messy.

Styling is fussy, though it looks different from the run of the mill, which is a point in its favour, and the twin pipes on the right won some hearts. The mini fairing and sexy twin lights work nicely, while those who live near a toll road will appreciate the dinky change-holder at the front of the fuel tank. More specs and user manual of Yamaha ZEAL you can see in next overview.

Yamaha ZEAL specifications

General information
Year: 2002
Category: Naked bike

Engine and transmission
Type: 249ccm, 4-cylinder is line, 4-stroke
Valves: 4-valves per cylinder
Power: 40HP (29.8 kW)
Torque: 26Nm @9500RPM
Compression: 10:1
Bore x stroke: 48x35.5mm
Fuel system: Injection
Fuel control: SOHC
Ignition: TCI
Starter: Electric
Lubrication system: Wet sump
Cooling system: Liquid
Gearbox: 6-speed

Transmission type
final drive: Chain
Clutch: Wet, multiple-disc coil spring

Physical measures
Dry weight: 145kg (319.7 pounds)
Seat height: 735mm
Wheelbase: 1370mm

Chassis and dimensions
Frame type: Steel tube, diamond shaped
Front suspension: Telescopic forks
Front suspension travel: 200mm
Rear suspension: Swingarm (mono cross)
Rear suspension travel: 200mm
Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 320mm (12.6 inches)
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 245mm (9.6 inches)