Segawa:  We wanted the "Ultimate Strong Fazer" . A bike that exceeds the performance of 1000cc street class machines. Fazer is a real sportbike for use on all kinds of public roads. Of course we used a lot of technology derived from R1 supersport, but goal for Fazer was more versatile use under real everyday conditions. We believe that most enthusiasts like bikes like R1. But for rider, using their machine also for commuting or prefer more comfortable riding style a high performance sportsbike needs better seating comfort, a acceptable space for passenger, and the ability to carry a minimum of luggage just to name a few criteria. Fazer does that.

Kubo:  Yes, indeed. The balance between sport function and comfort was the major discussion point between us engineers. To achieve this balance we used a steel chassis in combination with horizontally mounted carburetors instead of a R1 delta box type with downdraft carburetors.

This layout enables to locate the rider further forward and allows a more space for legs at a more upright riding position. At the same time we were quite severely "weight watching" . The result: Fazer is not much heavier than other supersport machines in its category: only 208 kg dry weight. The bike handles perfectly on small roads and also to maneuver it in city traffic is pretty easy.

We used the R1 engine as a base. This power-plant is light, compact and produces enormous power. We made some modification to the engine in order to fit use in every traffic condition. Top end power is still at 143 HP, and we gained a more balanced torque curve with 10,8 kgf/m torque. You don't need to shift a lot on Fazer 1000. Even in last gear on secondary roads, the acceleration and power pick up is really great and makes riding a real pleasure. We achieved this by 10% increased crank inertia mass, combined with BSR 37 mm carburetors and a completely new cylinder head.

Segawa:  Regarding the engine: R1 engine as a base was more a logic result rather than a given condition. We were free in our minds, which engine to use, but R1 base proved to be the best for the job. And actually we did a lot of internal tests and evaluation before deciding the final package. The project members did lots of actual riding of different bikes to set the target. We evaluated our comparative models as well as major competitor machines to be sure to build the ultimate street machine. Finally our goal, everyone in the team agreed was: "easy to catch up with an R1 on secondary roads with smile and comfort".

Kubo:  Believe me it was not easy to reach this. As you imagine, R1 is a pretty serious bike with huge performance potential. But we finally managed to combine comfort and performance for public road.

Segawa: Of course R1 is still superior on hard riding on tracks or high sped, but for normal road conditions in public traffic Fazer is not far off.

Kubo:  We used buff baking for the exhaust pipe (f35mm, single pipe) and EXUP which contributes to the flat torque and lightweight 4 into 1 muffler, as well as lightweight small clutches and modified second reduction gear (16x43 to 16x44). This also contributes to the easy ride feeling on public roads.

Segawa:  Fazer1000 styling was made up after big discussions. We did many tests to determine the best balance between a slim and dynamic styling and good function for wind protection and seat comfort. Actually these both requirements are opposite things. But I believe we found a good balance now.