Sport Tourers

1996Yamaha XJ 600 S Diversion

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The 1996 Yamaha XJ 600 S Diversion is an accessible all-rounder designed for novice and intermediate riders seeking a reliable, manageable motorcycle. Its lightweight 187kg frame, comfortable 770mm seat height, and responsive 61bhp inline-four engine deliver approachable performance ideal for commuting and casual touring. Known for dependable handling and fuel efficiency, it remains a popular choice for riders building experience.

Capacity: 598.0 ccm
Engine: In-line four, four-stroke
Gearbox: 6-speed
Dry weight: 187.0 kg
Seat height: 770 mm
Power: 61.0 HP (44.9 kW) @ 8500 RPM

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What’s new for the 1996 Yamaha XJ 600 S Diversion

vs the 1995

Spec	1995	1996
Torque	65.7 Nm (6.7 kgf-m or 48.5 ft.lbs)	53.0 Nm (5.4 kgf-m or 39.1 ft.lbs)

Other years 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested

Off-road & trail15%

Cornering62%

City riding72%

Daily riding78%

Touring58%

Two-up55%

Track35%

Best for: It's built as a versatile all-rounder for commuting, learning, and relaxed weekend rides rather than outright performance.
Built for: The in-line four delivers smooth, linear power delivery with a friendly, non-threatening demeanor typical of mid-size Yamaha nakeds.
Not ideal for: It's not the right choice for riders seeking sharp sportbike performance, aggressive cornering ability, or serious off-road capability.

Scores are derived from the spec sheet using the same model across every bike, so they compare like for like.

Will it fit you?

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Your height

Inseam (optional)

Units

At 770mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1996 Yamaha XJ 600 S Diversion, with a cramped knee angle of around 80 degrees and a slightly forward riding position.

Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated. This is an approximation from category-typical geometry, not a measurement of this bike or of you - sit on one before you buy.

More bikes at 751-820 mm — Middle Ground →

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Full specifications

Engine

Capacity: 598.0 ccm
Power: 61.0 HP (44.9 kW) @ 8500 RPM
Torque: 53.0 Nm (5.4 kgf-m)
Engine type: In-line four, four-stroke
Power/weight ratio: 0.3262 HP/kg (dry)
Bore x stroke: 58.5 x 55.7 mm
Compression: 10.0:1
Cooling system: Air
Fuel system: Carburettor
Starting: Electric
Valves per cylinder: 2

Transmission

Gearbox: 6-speed
Transmission type: Manual
Final drive: Chain

Dimensions & weight

Wheelbase: 1445 mm
Overall length: 2170 mm
Overall width: 735 mm
Overall height: 1205 mm
Seat height: 770 mm
Dry weight: 187.0 kg
Wet weight: 212.0 kg
Fuel capacity: 17.00 litres
Ground clearance: 150 mm

Chassis & suspension

Front wheel travel: 140 mm
Rear wheel travel: 110 mm

Brakes & wheels

Front brakes: Single disc
Front brakes diameter: 320 mm
Rear brakes: Single disc
Rear brakes diameter: 245 mm
Front tyre: 110/80-17
Rear tyre: 130/70-18

Compiled from manufacturer documentation and user contributions, corrected on an ongoing basis. Spotted something wrong? Tell us.

What changed, year to year

Differences highlighted

Specification	1992	1995	1996	1998	2000	2003
Capacity	599 cc	599 cc	598 cc	599 cc	598 cc	599 cc
Dry weight	187 kg	187 kg	187 kg	187 kg	190 kg	198 kg
Seat height	770 mm	770 mm	770 mm	770 mm	770 mm	735 mm
Fuel capacity	17 L	17 L	17 L	17 L	17 L	17 L