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Sportbikes

1997Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat

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The 1997 Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat is a lightweight sport bike designed for riders seeking accessible performance and agility. Its 599cc inline-four engine delivers 100 horsepower with responsive handling, making it ideal for both track days and spirited street riding. Known for its affordable entry into sportbike ownership, the Thundercat combines nimble maneuverability with reliable Japanese engineering.

Capacity
599.0 ccm
Engine
In-line four
Gearbox
6-speed
Dry weight
187.0 kg
Seat height
810 mm
Power
100.0 HP (73.5 kW)
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How it rides

Editorial estimate from the spec sheet - not lab tested
Speed 82Agility 80Comfort 62Off-road 5Touring 50Road manners 85
Off-road & trail5%
Cornering85%
City riding55%
Daily riding60%
Touring50%
Two-up45%
Track78%
Best for
Designed as a sport-touring machine that leans toward spirited road riding and occasional track days rather than pure racing or long-distance cruising.
Built for
A sharp, willing engine paired with agile handling gives it the personality of a fast, fun all-rounder that rewards confident throttle use.
Not ideal for
Not a good fit for complete beginners, off-road enthusiasts, or riders seeking a relaxed, upright touring position for two-up long-distance comfort.

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

Will it fit you?

Worked out in your browser - nothing is sent to us
At 810mm, a rider of 68.9" with a 31" (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1997 Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning 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.

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Full specifications

Engine
Capacity
599.0 ccm
Power
100.0 HP (73.5 kW)
Torque
67.0 Nm (6.8 kgf-m)
Engine type
In-line four
Power/weight ratio
0.5348 HP/kg (dry)
Cooling system
Liquid
Starting
Electric
Valves per cylinder
4
Transmission
Gearbox
6-speed
Transmission type
Manual
Final drive
Chain
Performance
Top speed
255.0 km/h (158.4 mph)
Dimensions & weight
Seat height
810 mm
Dry weight
187.0 kg
Brakes & wheels
Front brakes
Dual disc
Rear brakes
Single disc

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

Rider Reviews

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Common questions

What is the engine size of the Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat?

The 1997 Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat has a Capacity of 599.0 ccm (36.55 cubic inches).

What engine power does the Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat have?

The 1997 Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat has a Power of 100.0 HP (73.5 kW).

How many gears does the Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat have?

The 1997 Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat has a Gearbox of 6-speed.

What is the torque of the Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat?

The 1997 Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat has a Torque of 67.0 Nm (6.8 kgf-m or 49.4 ft.lbs).

How much does the Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat weigh?

The 1997 Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat has a Dry weight of 187.0 kg (412.3 pounds).

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