If the Kawasaki ZX-6R's motor begs to be caned, then the chassis begs you to use it. It’s sporty yet comfy, precise but not flighty and roomy but not baggy. It’s a brilliant blend of real world practicality and trackside intent. The six-piston brakes aren’t as harsh as the older ZX-6R’s fours and can be improved with pads for the ZX-9R. The suspension and brakes will need refreshing by now to get the best from the package. Budget on around £200-£300 to do the job properly.
The Kawasaki ZX-6R's DOHC in-line four sounds better with each passing degree of the tacho’s sweep – all the way up to its glorious 14,000rpm redline – as the twin ram-air tubes resonate with the cold fury of quickly shovelled speed. It’s based on the older F-series engine, albeit with revised cams and new 36mm carbs. Carbs that, just like old one, suffer from icing on cold, damp mornings. Pass the Silkolene ProFST, Cyril.
The Kawasaki ZX-6R's finish is good, but ride your ZX-6R through a winter or keep it outside and it quickly palls with corrosion setting in around the shock if you don’t add a hugger. Electrics can suffer, too, so be generous with the WD40. 1998: Supersedes the ZX-6R F-series. Gains cartridge forks, semi-downdraught carbs and revised frame and motor. 2000: G-series superseded by J-series ZX-6R (new singarm, revised shock, engine and gearbox improvements).
These days there is so much metal to choose from that an aging 600 might not seem like the ideal candidate for your cash. But the G-series Kawasaki ZX-6Rs are still handsome performers providing you overhaul the critical areas of suspension and brakes. Find a Kawasaki ZX-6R for sale.
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With the Kawasaki ZX-6R you don’t get a hugger or centrestand. You do get a pillion seat that’s not a dirty joke, and a digital display for water temp, trips and clock, though.