Yamaha YZF 600 R Thundercat - 2001 Specifications and Reviews

The 2001 Yamaha YZF 600 R Thundercat is a sporty middleweight sport-tourer powered by a nimble 599cc inline-four producing 100 horsepower. Its lightweight agility and responsive handling make it ideal for riders seeking thrilling cornering performance with practical everyday usability. Known for excellent value and dependable Japanese engineering, it bridges the gap between pure sportbikes and comfortable touring machines.

4.5 stars Average rating: 4.5 from 2 votes
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General information

CategorySport touring
Year2001
ModelYamaha YZF 600 R Thundercat

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission type,final driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Fuel systemCarburettor
Valves per cylinder4
Bore x stroke62.0 x 49.6 mm (2.4 x 2.0 inches)
Top speed230.0 km/h (142.9 mph)
Torque66.00 Nm (6.7 kgf-m or 48.7 ft.lbs) @ 9500
Power100.00
Engine typeIn-line four, four-stroke
Capacity:599.00 ccm (36.55 cubic inches)
 
 

Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels

Rear brakes diameter245 mm (9.6 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter298 mm (11.7 inches)
Front brakesDual disc
Rear tyre dimensions160/60-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions120/60-ZR17
Rear suspension travel120 mm (4.7 inches)
Front suspension travel130 mm (5.1 inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Fuel capacity19.00 litres (5.02 gallons)
Wheelbase1,415 mm (55.7 inches)
Seat height810 mm (31.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Power/weight ratio0.5348 HP/kg
Dry weight187.0 kg (412.3 pounds)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

100.1 hp
Peak Power
3.4s
0-60 mph

Best For

Track72%
City55%
Cornering80%
Daily Riding60%
Touring58%
Passenger50%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to riders with at least some prior experience on mid-to-large sportbikes who are comfortable with a forward-leaning riding position and strong midrange power delivery.
PurposeDesigned as a sport-touring-leaning supersport, blending brisk in-line four performance with a slightly more relaxed chassis setup than a full-blown race replica.
Rider FitThe moderate 805mm seat height and 187kg dry weight make it manageable for average-height riders, though the sporty ergonomics still put some load on wrists and shoulders on longer rides.
CharacterA characterful late-90s/early-2000s inline-four sport machine that rewards revs with a smooth, linear power delivery and confident, stable cornering manners.
Not Ideal ForNot ideal for complete beginners seeking an upright, low-effort commuter, nor for riders wanting genuine long-distance touring comfort or any off-road capability.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

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Feet:

At 810mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2001 Yamaha YZF 600 R Thundercat, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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