1997 Yamaha YZF600R
Miles: 3,476
Clean Title
Listed Price: $3,400
Listing Ends: September 10th, 2025
Prior to the introduction of bikes like the R6, the 600cc class was dominated by bikes more along the lines of this Yamaha YZF600R, a much more versatile, all-around useful motorcycle than the hyper-focused, frenetic, track-ready bikes that came later. In fact, the YZF, also known as the “Thundercat” in Europe, was such a useful, practical machine that it was sold alongside the R6 for several years after its introduction. An evolution of the earlier FZR600 it was powered, naturally, by a 599cc, liquid-cooled inline four producing a claimed 105hp, or 87hp at the rear wheel and backed by a six-speed gearbox. This updated powerplant was hung from the company’s signature Deltabox frame, although the frame was made from steel, instead of aluminum, to keep costs of the budget-conscious machine as low as possible. Honda did the same with their CBR600 at the time and, in both cases, the bikes handled superbly. Up front, Yamaha’s excellent “blue-spot” four-piston calipers helped pull the 453lb dry machine down from its 153mph top speed.
Up for sale is my 1997 Yamaha YZF 600R with only 3,400 miles. Runs and rides great. Carbs have been rejetted and muffler has been swapped for a Yoshimura. Other newer parts include water pump, fan switch, coolant flush, new spark plugs and a fresh oil change. Pretty fast for a 600cc bike.
Obviously, Japanese bikes in the 600cc class sold by the bucketload when they were new, so this Yamaha YZF600R “Thundercat” wouldn’t have been a rare bike twenty years ago. But these were raced, hacked, used as commuters, thrashed in the canyons, crashed, and generally abused for decades, so examples this nice are virtually impossible to find. I haven’t even seen a YZF600R for sale in any reasonable condition in a while. Unlike its stablemate the R6, the YZF was a true all-rounder, capable on track [it won an AMA championship in 1996], commuting to work, or even doing some weekend touring. If you had one years ago and want to relive your youth, or want a capable, but more comfortable sportbike, this might be a great buy. At just $3,400 it might make a great first real sportbike for a less experienced enthusiast, although you’d be giving up the convenience of fuel injection and modern safety features like ABS.
-tad
Very nice ‘Thunderkitty’. I had an identical example for years, although an obnoxiously loud D&D pipe alienated my riding buddies. A great all-rounder for sure, and the Sumitomo stoppers were excellent. With some suspension upgrades a very good bike.
Always loved these bikes and their YZF1000 counterparts. Hate to see when carbs get monkeyed with on an otherwise virgin, low mile example. Hopefully it’s one of the kits that doesn’t drill the slides and can be reversed back to stock.
This looks even better in person, I rode down a week ago and had a look. It needs rubber, but who cares? Starts right up and sounds great. Close to a museum piece. I considered it, but have since decided to hold off for a while. An screaming deal!
I am somewhat local, and rode down the Saturday before last to look at it. It is even better in person. Not quite a museum piece, but looks just a year or two old. Will need rubber, but who cares?
I have since decided to put my purchases on pause, as the reason has changed.
However, for someone that wants an extremely nice example, this is it.
Super condition and very well priced. it needs to go to someone that will not “improve” it by converting it to a “cafe racer.” Obviously adult owned, and starts right up and runs as it should.
A screaming deal. Extremely reasonable owner.
To Sal Giovanni, the jet kit that’s installed on this bike is a Dynojet Stage 1 Jet Kit 4145. no major modifications to the carbs for were needed to install that kit.
@Frederick – Thanks for the report!