Yamaha YZF-R6 (1998-2003)

Hardcore, know the score. The Yamaha YZF-R6 is a sexy uber-capable track bike that works on the road too. It caught the 600 race rep class napping and nothing came close until Suzuki launched its 2001 GSX-R600 – that’s a long time to rule the 600 roost and shows just how good the original Yamaha YZF-R6 was.


Engine 
The Yamaha YZF-R6 loves to rev – a 15,500 rpm redline was high for the time. And it’s powerful. 160mph fast doesn’t sound amazing in these days of 180+mph bikes but unleashing the Yamaha YZF-R6's 108bhp certainly feels pretty special. The midrange is surprisingly meaty too although the top end rush hides it. The gearbox isn’t the smoothest but it’s at least a match for most Hondas.


Ride and Handing
Light, rapid steering and hard to fault on the track – ultimately the Yamaha YZF-R6's pegs will touch down but that takes some doing. The bars will waggle under power but the Yamaha YZF-R6 is a fast steering track bike so that’s to be expected. It can’t quite match the composition and easy turn in of the latest supersport 600s but it’s a small difference – chassis wear will be more significant on most machines.


Equipment
Sports bikes don’t have to be crippling and impractical. And the Yamaha YZF-R6 is neither. The riding position’s pretty reasonable – touring’s possible although the seat could benefit from a gel insert. The Yamaha YZF-R6's instruments are comprehensive for the era and include an extra trip meter triggered by the fuel reserve. Above average underseat storgage, good headlights, passable mirrors.


Quality and Reliability
The Yamaha YZF-R6's finish is a mixed bag. Plenty of major parts resist the rigors of rain and salt well. But a few smaller parts let the Yamaha YZF-R6 down. Bolts, brackets and fasteners plus a handful of bigger components fur or rust up far too easily. Major Yamaha YZF-R6 reliability problems are extremely rare. Check for heavy oil consumption and any form of gearbox fault.


Model history
1998: Original Yamaha YZF-R6 launched.
2001: Updated Yamaha YZF-R6 includes quick release number plate hanger and most obviously LED tail lights.
2003: Yamaha YZF-R6 gets new swingarm, fuel injection replaces carbs, revised frame, five-spoke wheels.



Engine and transmission


Displacement: 598.00 ccm (36.49 cubic inches)
Engine type: In-line four, four-stroke
Power: 120.00 HP (87.6 kW)) @ 13000 RPM
Torque: 68.00 Nm (6.9 kgf-m or 50.2 ft.lbs) @ 11500 RPM
Top speed: 250.0 km/h (155.3 mph)
Bore x stroke: 65.5 x 44.4 mm (2.6 x 1.7 inches)
Valves per cylinder: 4
Fuel system: Carburettor
Cooling system: Liquid
Gearbox: 6-speed


Chassis, suspension, brakes and wheels
Front suspension travel: 130 mm (5.1 inches)
Rear suspension travel: 120 mm (4.7 inches)
Front tyre dimensions: 120/60-ZR17
Rear tyre dimensions: 180/55-ZR17
Front brakes: Dual disc
Front brakes diameter: 298 mm (11.7 inches)
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 220 mm (8.7 inches)


Physical measures and capacities
Dry weight: 167.5 kg (369.3 pounds)
Power/weight ratio: 0.7164 HP/kg
Seat height: 820 mm (32.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Wheelbase: 1,380 mm (54.3 inches)
Fuel capacity: 17.00 litres (4.49 gallons)