Yamaha YZF 600 R (Thundercat)

First introduced in 1996, the poor ‘cat’ didn’t stand much of a chance, it was slated by all who couldn’t understand why it wasn’t a sharp and focused track tool. In reality, and looking back, this was foolish. Yamaha had a clear design brief when they penned the YZF600R and thankfully they stuck to it. In doing so, they had created one of the best of the breed from the latter part of the 1990’s, winning many, many loyal fans along the way, holding it’s own in the Yamaha line up for 8 years. The last of the ‘Thundercat’s was manufactured in 2004.

The Yamaha engine is well developed with a long service history behind it, having been used, in one form of another, in the earlier FZR and Genesis models and will run without attention being paid to it for many kilometers. It is smooth throughout and, although not the most powerful or toquey of the middleweight bunch, it will roll on from 50km/h in top gear all the way to its heady redline and 245km/h.

The only downfall with the engine is found if ever the need to get to anything is desired. Thankfully, these occasions should be few and far between, the YZF600R's engine is tightly packed within the frame beams and then covered by the extensive plastics. Simple and routine tasks soon become a morning's work, while changing the plugs quickly becomes a job for the more professional of home mechanics. Oil and filter changes apart, however, the need to get in there shouldn't be a regular one.

Seating is one of the major plus points, especially for the pillion. The seat is roomy and easy to hold grab rails make for happy partners on long trips; while the 19-liter fuel tank, and good fuel consumption figures, should return around 282 kilometers without the need for a stop.

Providing the bike has been well maintained, the only serious fault one could level at it would have to be the high-speed ability of the standard screen, as this considerably buffets the helmet and neck area, which in turn creates rider discomfort after a short while.

 Yamaha YZF 600 R Info;

  • Displacement; 599cc(36.55 cubic inches)
  • Engine type; in line four
  • Stroke; 4
  • Power; 100.00 HP @ 11500 RPM
  • Torque; 600 NM @ 9500 RPM
  • Valves per cylinder; 4
  • Starter; electric
  • Cooling system; liquid
  • Gearbox; 6 speed
  • Transmission type final drive; chain
  • Dry weight; 187.0 Kg
  • Seat height; 795 mm (31.3 inches)
  • Front brakes; dual disc
  • Rear brakes; single disc
  • Top speed; 158.4 mph