Yamaha XT125R
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Manufacturer | Yamaha |
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Also called | Thundercat |
Parent company | Yamaha |
Production | ? |
Predecessor | n/a |
Successor | n/a |
Class | enduro,adventure |
Engine | 125 cc single cylinder |
Transmission | 5 speed sequential |
Weight | 108 kg (dry) |
The Yamaha YZF600R (known as the Thundercat in some European markets) is a 599cc sportbike. While similar in style to its sibling, the YZF-R6, the 600R maintains some significant differences, namely a less aggressive posture, lower reving and higher torque producing motor, large 1 piece seat, and steel frame rather than aluminum. While the 600R started out in life as Yamaha's 600cc class supersport motorcycle, it is now considered a comfortable alternative to the aggressive racing motorcycles that dominate the 600cc market.
First offered for sale in US markets in 1994, the YZF600R underwent a major aesthetic restyling in 1997 (1996 in European markets), while retaining major mechanical componentry such as the engine, transmission, suspension components, and steel "Deltabox" frame (perhaps the largest contributor to its hefty weight when compared to the modern competition). The bike remains virtually unchanged with the exception of color schemes until model year 2007. Emerging emissions restrictions will likely spell the end of this carburated model in the United States.
With its inline 4 cylinder engine and 90 BHP the Thundercat is a comfortable and road minded sport bike. While it weighs in at a hefty 417 lbs dry, it is still capable of 150+ mph top speeds and extreme cornering. Its comfortable seating position and relatively torquey motor make it a favorite for sport touring applications, while the fully adjustable suspension and legendary first generation R1 sourced Brembo brakes also make it a good choice for track racing.
As of the 2007 model year, Yamaha is still producing and marketing the YZF-600R. At a very competitive US$7,099 MSRP, the YZF600R is one of the cheapest sport motorcycles on the market compared to the US$9,199 MSRP YZF-R6 and others.
Specifications
1994-1996 | 1997-2007 | ||
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Engine Type | Four-stroke DOHC inline four, 16 valves | ||
Displacement | 599 cc | ||
Peak horsepower (est.) | 89 hp @ 11,500 rpm | 89 hp @ 11,500 rpm | |
Peak Torque (est.) | 45 ft-lbs @ 9,500 rpm | 45 ft-lbs @ 9,500 rpm | |
Front Tire | 120/60 ZR17 | 120/60 ZR17 | |
Rear Tire | 160/60 ZR17 | 160/60 ZR17 | |
Length | 81.5 in | 79.9 in | |
Wheelbase | 56.3 in | 55.1 in | |
Seat Height | 30.7 in | 32.3 in | |
Dry Weight | 430 lb |
Known Issues
Second gear grind - A debatable problem of getting the bike to go into 2nd gear through neutral from 1st. While no quantitative data has been compiled, anecdotal evidence shows that the YZF600R is no more, and no less, prone to 2nd gear grinds than any other 600cc bike with a large gear ratio between 1st and 2nd. Many owners have reported many tens of thousands of miles of trouble free operation, others have had less luck. In any event, a shift kit is available to improve the shift feel and lessen likelihood of occurence.
External links
- 2007 YZF600R official Yamaha site
- YZF600R-USA.com resource site featuring tutorials, forums, and more