Second-hand advice: 600 athletes up to 3000 euros

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Second-hand advice: 600 athletes up to 3000 euros
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Second-hand advice: 600 athletes up to 3000 euros

Second-hand advice: 600 athletes up to 3000 euros
600 from the used department

Why fish in the large pond of 1000? 600 super athletes offer a great price-performance ratio. After all, there is also high-tech straight from the racing department. From a certain age, even at the low budget tariff.

Jorg Lohse

09/25/2008

With the ongoing run on super sporty 1000s, the 600s have disappeared from the spotlight. This is good for cost-conscious used buyers. Well-equipped machines are available privately or from dealers for less than 3000 euros. Of course, the four Japanese are very popular – above all the Honda CBR 600 F, which not only keeps up with a sporty pace, but can also wipe out the competition with its all-round qualities. Probably the most thoroughbred sport bike comes from Kawasaki. The ZX-6R is just the thing if you want to get down to business in between during race training. The positive side aspect: for the journey to and from the circuit, it offers its pilot a comfortable seat. In contrast to the Suzuki. The GSX-R series has a recognized good name in the scene. But the start in the 600 league was bumpy, everyday qualities go well GSX-R 600 completely off. Yamaha attracts with the sporty and comfortable 600 Thundercat, which however lacks the famous name. What’ll it be? It’s best to take a look yourself.

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Honda CBR 600 F.


Second-hand advice: 600 athletes up to 3000 euros

In the race for a total of 20 years: Honda CBR 600 F.

She is considered to be the pioneer of the modern 600 sport class. Already in 1987 the CBR 600 F made her debut and has been refined over the years. Although designed to be super sporty, it never misses everyday virtues. Which is why the CBR repeatedly conquered pole position in comparative tests. Competitors were able to sit in front of the Honda nose in racing pace, but they buckled in the all-round standings. In contrast, the CBR excelled especially when touring with a pillion passenger and luggage. Last but not least, the standard main stand and the luggage hooks at the rear show that supersport bikes can be equipped with equipment that is suitable for everyday use.

Despite many revisions in the long construction period, the Honda did not suffer from typical quirks in any expansion stage. And thanks to the neutral, perfectly balanced chassis, both beginners and experienced kilometer eaters feel comfortable in the saddle. After 20 years, the first copies are of course very battered and are offered at prices well below 1500 euros. Caution is advised when buying. The PC 31 model versions from 1995 with 105 hp are significantly more interesting and attractive in terms of price-performance ratio from 2000 euros. Those who like it really sporty will be happy with the PC 35 from 1999, which with its extremely short-stroke engine, ram-air system, aluminum frame and appropriate 180 mm rear tires can withstand today’s demands on a super sports car.

plus
+ Neutral chassis with practical adjustment range
+ Suitable for everyday use and comfortable
+ Braking system stable
+ Large selection of used vehicles

minus
– Older machines badly worn
– Engine not powerful enough from a sporting perspective

Conclusion
Honda’s racing main stand – the recommendation for anyone looking for a 600cc super sports car with a perfect mix of all virtues. Thanks to the long construction time, you can browse through a wide range of offers and play poker properly at the price. The recommendation for all bargain hunters!

Market situation
The selection of PC 31 types is extremely extensive in the price range up to 3000 euros. Many are advertised as being in an above-average condition. Interested parties have numerous options for comparison. The trade in the much more sporty PC-35 version only starts at just under 3000 euros. Used buyers have to reckon with small defects (such as paint damage caused by falling over). The mileage is around 5000 kilometers per year. The original model from 1987 (PC 19) is just like the first offspring from 1991 (PC 25) the right one for youngtimers interested in.

Data
Water-cooled four-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 600 cm³, 77 kW (105 PS) at 12,000 rpm, weight 208 kg, seat height 810 mm, tank capacity 17 liters; Top speed 248 km / h; 0–100 km / h: 3.4 seconds, consumption 5.8 liters / 100 km, regular gasoline

Tests in MOTORCYCLE
PC 31: 26/1994 (T); 1/1995 (VT); PC 35: 26/1998 (VT); 22/2000 (LT); 5/2001 (TT)

T = test, TT = top test, VT = comparison test, LT = long distance test; Repeat orders by phone 0711/1821229

Internet
Fansites: www.cbrforum.de; www.cbr-forum.de
Used offers: https://www.1000ps.de/gebrauchte-motorraeder

Kawasaki ZX-6R


Second-hand advice: 600 athletes up to 3000 euros

Older ninjas also master the street fight: Kawasaki ZX-6R, built in 2005.

Anyone who fishes in the used pool for a sporty 600 with the best price-performance ratio is most likely to get one Kawasaki ZX-6R go online. In 1995, Team Green sent the 100 hp bike into the race. The 600 was able to convince the fan base from the start. The ZX-6R scored points not only on the racetrack, but also in everyday use. The engine presented itself as equally powerful as it was powerful and smooth-running. The chassis scored with stability without sacrificing comfort. There was also no criticism when it came to the brakes. Still, Kawasaki never left the ninja the same for long. In the history of the model, there is an indication of minor modifications almost every year.

In 1998 and 2000, in the third and fifth years since its appearance, the ZX-6R was launched completely revised. With this, the Kawa engineers underscored their endeavor to always have a hot iron in the fire in the highly competitive 600 business. One problem that persisted up to the 2000 model despite all the fine work was the stubborn fork flutter during hard braking maneuvers. On the other hand, the Greens showed their environmental flag early on and offered the 1998 model with an unregulated catalytic converter for an extra charge. At best, important competitors were able to parry with a secondary air system. The third variant – to be found in the showroom from 2000 – has been made even sportier with a larger Ram Air opening, shorter inlet ducts and higher compression. As used, however, this scratches only at the 3,000 euro limit.

plus
+ Motor powerful and smooth
+ Chassis stable and comfortable
+ Brakes first class

minus
– Fork flutter when braking hard
– There is hardly any wind protection

Conclusion
First choice for everyone who is looking for a robust sport bike with enough everyday reserves. Particularly interesting are models built after 1998, which have been maintained as well as possible and have not seen a racetrack if possible. Visually, they are among the most beautiful in the Ninja series.

Market situation
With well over 15,000 sales by 2001, the ZX-6R was a real box-office hit. Around two thirds of these are currently registered. The best conditions to be able to choose from an attractive second hand offer. Entry-level tickets to the fast, green world can be purchased from around 2000 euros. There are many offers of the ZX-6R up to 3000 euros, including a number of delicacies with low mileage and in top condition. Bargain hunters should concentrate on the more difficult to sell “non-green” ninjas in black, red, yellow or silver. It is mandatory to check for signs of a fall.

Data
Water-cooled four-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 599 cm³, 82 kW (111 PS) at 12500 rpm, weight 199 kg, seat height 820 mm, tank capacity 18 liters; Maximum speed 255 km / h; 0–100 km / h: 2.8 seconds, consumption 6.4 liters / 100 km, regular gasoline

Tests in MOTORCYCLE
1/1995 (VT), 24/1996 (LT), 6/1998 (VT), 6/2000 (T)

T = test, VT = comparison test, LT = long distance test; Repeat orders by phone 0711/1821229

Internet
Fansites: www.ninja-forum.de
Used offers: https://www.1000ps.de/gebrauchte-motorraeder

Suzuki GSX-R 600


Second-hand advice: 600 athletes up to 3000 euros

Likes sporty pilots: Suzuki GSX-R 600, built in 2005.

Amazingly, with the GSX-R 600, Suzuki was the last Japanese brand to enter the super sports class. Anyone who thought the long wait was worth it was bitterly disappointed. Because the 1997 original version of the Mini-Gixxer couldn’t really show itself off either on the racetrack or on the country road. The engine simply lacked power for the sporty finish on the slopes, and the uneven power delivery was annoying in everyday life. The engineers in Hamamatsu therefore gave the 1998 model one more hand. On the engine side, with a larger airbox, longer air funnels on the carburettors and revised camshafts, the GSX-R engine now looked significantly more powerful. The silencer gained in volume, the gear ratio was now shorter with a 15-tooth instead of a 16-tooth pinion.

The overall package of revisions made the Suzuki really legs. From now on it shone on the racetrack – where it also benefits from its chassis, which is characterized by excellent stability without being too tight. Another plus point: the low weight of 199 kilograms. A handicap, however, is the uncomfortable sitting position with notches that are too high and handlebar ends that are too low. Anyone who wants to dash down country roads in a relaxed way is literally tortured on the Suzuki. We don’t even want to start with the pillion qualities at this point. In addition, smaller drivers have the problem of getting their feet on the ground safely on the comparatively wide seat.

plus
+ Engine reliable and powerful after the facelift
+ Driving performance from a sporting point of view is first class
+ Equipment of high quality and handsome

minus
– 1997 models with very inelastic power delivery
– Extremely uncomfortable in everyday life

Conclusion
From model year 1998 the Suzuki GSX-R is designed for one thing: speed up. Therefore, it remains the first choice only for ambitious sporty pilots, while touring or travel fans should rather squint in the direction of the Honda competitor CBR 600 F. Overall, the offer is very poor.

Market situation
The used range of small Gixxers from the first year of construction is very manageable under 3000 euros. Serious trade in the 600 series Suzuki starts at around 2500 euros. According to the seller, the few offers always include an extremely well-maintained bike without accidents or accidental damage. The mileage fluctuates considerably: There are offers with well below 25,000 and well over 40,000 kilometers. Since the Suzuki is extremely popular for racing training, you should search the machine of your choice for possible fall damage.

Data
Water-cooled four-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 600 cm³, 81 kW (110 PS) at 11800 rpm, weight 199 kg, seat height 810 mm, tank capacity 18 liters; Top speed 252 km / h; 0–100 km / h: 2.8 seconds, consumption 6.3 liters / 100 km, regular gasoline

Tests in MOTORCYCLE
1/1997 (T), 2/1997 (VT), 9/2000 (VT), 25/2000 (VT), 23/2001 (GK)

T = test, VT = comparison test, GK = used purchase; Repeat orders by phone 0711/1821229

Internet
Fansites: www.kurvenjaeger.org
Used offers: https://www.1000ps.de/gebrauchte-motorraeder

Yamaha YZF 600 R Thundercat

Comfortably rolled onto the siding? Interestingly, a look at the test logbook of the Yamaha YZF 600 R reveals only positive things at first glance: Yamaha’s new sports star impressed the MOTORRAD test crew in 1996 with its efficient fairing, civil engine running properties and first-class brakes. But then the scales spat out the weight of the Thundercat: a lush 223 kilograms, up to 15 kilograms more than the competition – so the Yamaha was quickly passed in the race track standings and from then on traded under the name “also ran”. Instead of improving the image through fine model updates, Yamaha decided to face the arms race in the 600 super sports class with the completely new model YZF-R6.

The Thundercat would have had a career as a superb sports tourer if it hadn’t been for the in-house competition from 1998 with the half-disguised and significantly cheaper Fazer. So the 600 was only granted a short guest appearance. The four-cylinder disappeared from the range as early as 2002. As a second-hand offer, however, it remains the first choice for those who are looking for an agile touring athlete and who are more comfortable on long road trips than on short sprints on the racetrack. Because with its comparatively high handlebar stubs, a comfortable seat and the efficient wind protection, the YZF 600 R spoils you with plenty of comfort in this segment. In addition, the chassis offers an extremely practical adjustment range.

plus
+ Engine cultivated and smooth running
+ Chassis comfortable and adjustable to all needs
+ Brakes first class and stable

minus
– Weight too high for an athlete
– Used offer very small
– Short service intervals of 5000 kilometers

Conclusion
Looking for super sport, found super comfort. The YZF 600 R looks racing, but offers real touring qualities. The range up to 3000 euros is not extensive, but usually includes well-maintained bikes. You should therefore not hesitate too long with the purchase.

Market situation
The thunder cats from Yamaha are offered from around 2000 euros, with the selection in the price range up to 3000 euros being modest. Of course, this is not surprising, since the 600 series is not represented in very large numbers in Germany with just under 2800 registered copies. Most of the machines are between ten and twelve years old. Particularly positive: wild conversions or references to a race track use are rarely found. The sellers tend to emphasize the original condition of the YZF 600 R. Compared to the more sporty competitor models, the mileage averaging 40,000 kilometers is rather high.

Data
Water-cooled four-cylinder four-stroke in-line engine, 599 cm³, 72 kW (98 PS) at 11500 rpm, weight 223 kg, seat height 810 mm, tank capacity 19 liters; Top speed 234 km / h; 0–100 km / h: 3.6 seconds, consumption 6.3 liters / 100 km, regular gasoline

Tests in MOTORCYCLE
6/1996 (T), 7/1996 (T); 23/1999 (VT), 5/2000 (GK)

T = test, VT = comparison test, GK = used purchase; Repeat orders by phone 0711/1821229

Internet
Fansites: www.thundercat-club.de
Used offers: https://www.1000ps.de/gebrauchte-motorraeder

What to wear on athletes?

It’s still best to wear a leather suit on sports bikes. MOTORRAD gives tips on buying.


Second-hand advice: 600 athletes up to 3000 euros


IXS

For example: leather suit “Firestrom” by IXS.

Practical for every day is a two-part combination with a connection zipper that is firmly sewn into the leather of the trousers and jacket. With models in which the zipper is only attached to the lining, there is a risk that the suit will tear open at the connection point in the event of a fall. The protectors must be positioned without pressure and must not slip. It is good if the station wagon is already equipped with a CE-approved back protector as standard. Also practical: a lining that can be removed for washing. In a test of leather suits up to 800 euros (MOTORRAD 10/2008), the Alpinestars Octane and Berik Motard models have proven themselves. If you regularly take part in racing training, a tight one-piece suit is recommended.

Is the setting right??

Real sports bikes have to be rock solid? Most of the time the landing gear is set incorrectly. Convenient tips for the right setup.


Second-hand advice: 600 athletes up to 3000 euros


Jahn

Information on adjusting the shock absorber and fork can usually be found in the driver’s manual.

The spring elements of athletes can be adjusted in preload, rebound and compression. Anyone who operates with wrong values ​​with the many possibilities can be greatly spoiled by poor response behavior with brisk driving. Therefore, first carry out a “reset” on the new acquisition. The information on how to adjust the fork and shock absorber can be found in the driver’s manual – usually given for a specific driver weight. Based on this, the bike can be quickly adapted to your own needs. In addition, valuable information on the suspension settings can be found in the MOTORRAD tests of the individual models.

Tire recommendation for athletes

Old bikes, old tires? Even an elderly athlete can be spiced up quickly with fresh rubbers.


Second-hand advice: 600 athletes up to 3000 euros


Artist

Only the right rubber creates the right feeling.

Even during the inspection, a critical look should be given in the direction of the tires. Even if the profile is still good for thousands of kilometers, that doesn’t mean that the tire is also good for the motorcycle. Old pairings with hardened rubber compounds should be replaced with fresh pelts as soon as possible. A look at the four-digit production code (week and year of manufacture) reveals the age of the tires. MOTORRAD regularly tests tires with great effort, most recently in issue 12/2008 on a CBR 600 RR. The Metzeler Sportec M3 has turned out to be the best sports tire. If you are looking for a rain specialist, you are well served with the Michelin Pilot Power. Drivers who are more interested in cross-country skiing and travel skills are better off using touring tires. Michelins Pilot Road 2 and the Dunlop Roadsmart with good driving characteristics on dry and wet roads are recommended here.

Fix optical defects yourself?

Paint and plastic repairs are not without and usually a case for professionals. What can you do, what better not to do?


Second-hand advice: 600 athletes up to 3000 euros


Froberg

Unsightly signs of the times cannot be avoided with older used models.

A small crack in the paneling, scratches in the paint: When buying, visual defects can lower the price, but when it comes to fixing, the amount saved can quickly be gone. Basically, only experienced hands should dare to repair such areas. Painting is particularly tricky. Rule of thumb: Any damage that is bigger than a small fingernail is a case for the professional. When touching up, you should avoid spray-paint (gives paint mist or running noses) and work better with original touch-up pens (from the dealer). The same applies to damaged cladding: leave large-scale repairs to the professionals. Small spots can be repaired yourself using special repair kits (in the large chain stores, from 50 euros) – but manual skills are also required here.

Used bike with racetrack experience?

Has the motorcycle of your choice been burned up on the racetrack? Our tips for visiting.


Second-hand advice: 600 athletes up to 3000 euros


Jahn

If the used bike has already had close contact with the racetrack, there are a few extra checkpoints to consider when viewing.

In the case of super athletes, it is essential to clarify whether the motorcycle has been used on the racetrack more often. Even if the seller credibly denies this, it is important to pay close attention to unusual running noises from the engine and gearbox as well as to fall marks during the on-site appointment. After an extensive test drive, make sure to check that the engine is tight and that no oil is leaking anywhere. To be on the safe side, you should take the panel off. In addition, you can quickly see whether the frame or the motor housing have traces of sanding. If there is damage to the steering stop, this is also a sure sign of an accident. Further check points: bearing points (steering head, wheel bearings). Check rocker arm and reversing lever for play, brake disks for distortion and wear. It makes sense to visit with an experienced friend.

Alternatives

There are exotic species in the 600 sports segment, which on the one hand are difficult to find used due to their low distribution. On the other hand, when you look outside the box, “most wanted” Targeting models that few buyers care about. And which can sometimes be bought for little money with excellent care. Of course, some older models like the GPX 600 R no longer have the charisma of yore and have to give up significantly compared to current sports goods. And others like the Ducati 600 SS are very expensive to maintain.

Ducati 600 SS Carenata
Once the entry-level model in the super sporty Ducati world. Charismatic engine with air cooling. A case for bargain hunters: only a few have this Duc in their sights.

Data: four-stroke two-cylinder, 53 hp, 190 km / h, 0-100 km / h in 5.2 seconds, weight 189 kg, tank capacity 17.5 liters, consumption 6.1 liters Super

Kawasaki ZZ-R 600
Another oldie from the 600 sports department. But a good one: Brakes, handling are great, the engine is easy to turn. Above all, scores with sports tourists. Large selection, small prices.
Data: four-stroke four-cylinder, 98 hp, 236 km / h, 0-100 km / h in 3.8 seconds, weight 225 kg, tank capacity 18 liters, consumption 7.4 liters normal

Kawasaki GPX 600 R.
Back to the eighties. The angular Kawasaki can be medium-
while it is difficult to keep up with supersport bikes, but collects plus points thanks to their comfortable seat.

Data: four-stroke four-cylinder, 73 hp, 204 km / h, 0-100 km / h in 4.3 seconds, weight 208 kg, tank capacity 18 liters, consumption 5.5 liters normal

MZ Scorpio Sport / Tour
Really the exotic among the exotic. The East German cult forge also tried its hand at sports, even with its own cup machine (Skorpion Cup). A clear case for lovers.

Data: four-stroke single cylinder, 48 hp, 175 km / h, 0-100 km / h in 5.4 seconds, weight 189 kg, tank capacity 18 liters, consumption 5.4 liters normal

Suzuki GSX 600 F
A long-runner in the Suzuki range. Always played second fiddle in a sporty way. There is a huge selection on the market. A tip for speedy bargain hunters.

Data: four-stroke four-cylinder, 86 hp, 208 km / h, 0-100 km / h in 4.4 seconds, weight 223 kg, tank capacity 20 liters, consumption 6.5 liters normal

Triumph TT 600
England’s ticket to the sporty 600 class. Will follow the specifications of the Honda CBR 600 F. Great chassis, great brakes, but the sometimes anemic engine was not convincing.

Data: four-stroke four-cylinder, 108 hp, 250 km / h, 0-100 km / h in 3.4 seconds, weight 189 kg, tank capacity 18 liters, consumption 6.8 liters Super

Yamaha FZR 600 R
Super athletes from a completely different time. In the program from 1989 to 1995. Despite its glorious race optics, only ranks from a sporty perspective due to its age “also ran”.

Data: four-stroke four-cylinder, 91 hp, 223 km / h, 0-100 km / h in 4.0 seconds, weight 208 kg, tank capacity 18 liters, consumption 5.9 liters normal

Yamaha YZF-R6
Changing of the guard for the Thundercat from 1999. Suitable for everyday use, it can also compete with the GSX-R and ZX-6R. The first models are now being traded for just under 3000 euros.

Data: four-stroke four-cylinder, 120 hp, 254 km / h, 0-100 km / h in 3.2 seconds, weight 196 kg, tank capacity 17 liters, consumption 6.0 liters normal

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