07. Yamaha YZF-R6 (1999-2005)
Engine: 599cc, 16-valve, carb’d/ injected, four
Power: 120bhp
Torque: 50 lb/ft
Weight: 168kg
Top speed: 160mph
Insurance group: 15
Rating: ★★★★
Used prices (highest, average, lowest): £4,250 • £3,300 • £2,100
Another dark horse. Yes, it ticks all the fast and lairy boxes, it’s even popular in hip hop circles. But it’s actually quite practical too with a spacious riding position and a smooth engine with useable midrange. All models can shake their bars without too much provocation so a steering damper’s a wise extra. Updated for 2001 with minor tweaks, most obviously LED rear lights. 2003 saw a major update including an all new frame and much more and probably represents the best of these models. 2005 machines got USD forks and radially-mounted brakes. A tiny minority have clutch, gearbox and engine problems but most are problem free.
Click here to read Yamaha YZF-R6 owner reviews.
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