No update, no spyshots, no ABS, no talks – is the Yamaha SZ discontinued? If yes, it will be the second motorcycle after Fazer in Yamaha’s lineup…
Till last year, apart from the R15, Yamaha had two motorcycles in the 150cc space – FZ version 2 in the executive premium segment and the SZ which played in the entry level in this sub-segment. While the FZ got the FZ v3 update, the SZ hasn’t. Despite its lower price tag it never got the recognition and acceptance of the FZs.
With this new ruling which mandates ABS (Antilock Braking System) on motorcycles over 125cc displacement, manufacturers have plucked low-selling models from the portfolio, instead of investing in upgrading them. Seems like it will be a similar case for the 150cc SZ as well.
Yamaha SZ Discontinued?
The motorcycle which last saw dispatches in April this year, had fallen to zero in May. The official webpage continues to list the non-ABS version (which can not be sold any more); there has been no announcement of its replacement/upgrade from Yamaha, nor has there been any spyshots to talk about.
Considering all of this, and the lack of numbers it was amassing, it appears that this is the end of the road for the SZ RR in India. Another motorcycle that has not seen an upgrade yet is the Fazer 150. In comparison, Yamaha has managed to increases sales of its higher priced models like R15 and the new FZ v3. The new MT-15 (read review) is also doing reasonably well despite its higher price tag.
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On the other hand, Yamaha continues to sell the Saluto twins – 110cc RX and 125cc in the market. This ABS ruling has killed many motorcycles which include some big names like the complete UM range, Hero Karizma, Xtreme 150R, Honda Unicorn 160 etc.