KAWASAKI ZX-6R (1998 - 1999) Review
At a glance
| Owners' reliability rating: | |
|---|---|
| Annual servicing cost: | £100 |
| Power: | 106 bhp |
| Seat height: | Medium (32.1 in / 815 mm) |
| Weight: | Low (388 lbs / 176 kg) |
Prices
Overall rating
Next up: Ride & brakesWith its genuine 163mph top speed, six-piston brakes, low’ish insurance group and evil induction noise the Kawasaki ZX-6R G-series is the bike that overnight made the 750cc superbikes look superfluous.
Even today it’s still considered a capable performer, though the suspension and stoppers will doubtless welcome a fettle.
Ride quality & brakes
Next up: EngineIf 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.
Engine
Next up: ReliabilityThe 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.
Reliability & build quality
Next up: ValueThe 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 Gains cartridge forks, semi-downdraught carbs and revised frame and motor. 2000: G-series superseded by J-series ZX-6R (new singarm, revised shock, engine and gearbox improvements).
Value vs rivals
Next up: EquipmentThese 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.
Equipment
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.
Specs |
|
| Engine size | 599cc |
|---|---|
| Engine type | 16v in-line four, 6 gears |
| Frame type | Ally twin spar |
| Fuel capacity | 18 litres |
| Seat height | 815mm |
| Bike weight | 176kg |
| Front suspension | Preload, compression, rebound |
| Rear suspension | Preload, compression, rebound |
| Front brake | Twin 300mm discs |
| Rear brake | 220mm disc220mm disc |
| Front tyre size | 120/70 x 17 |
| Rear tyre size | 170/55 x 17 |
Mpg, costs & insurance |
|
| Average fuel consumption | 41 mpg |
|---|---|
| Annual road tax | £73 |
| Annual service cost | £100 |
| New price | - |
| Used price | £2,500 - £2,600 |
| Insurance group |
14 of 17 How much to insure? |
| Warranty term | Two year unlimited mileage |
Top speed & performance |
|
| Max power | 106 bhp |
|---|---|
| Max torque | 48 ft-lb |
| Top speed | 163 mph |
| 1/4 mile acceleration | 10.9 secs |
| Tank range | 160 miles |
Model history & versions
Model history
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).
Other versions
None
Owners' reviews for the KAWASAKI ZX-6R (1998 - 1999)
15 owners have reviewed their KAWASAKI ZX-6R (1998 - 1999) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.
Review your KAWASAKI ZX-6R (1998 - 1999)
Summary of owners' reviews |
|
| Overall rating: | |
|---|---|
| Ride quality & brakes: | |
| Engine: | |
| Reliability & build quality: | |
| Value vs rivals: | |
| Equipment: | |
| Annual servicing cost: | £100 |
Version: G2
Year: 1999
Annual servicing cost: £100
Cracking bike that does it all. Commute, tour and trackdays. Awesome value for money. No computers, modes or any other modern gadgets. The most tech advanced bit is probably the digital clock / odometer! And it has carbs and a fuel tap. (No fuel lights on the dash). I just love the 20th century innocence of this bike.
Ride quality is good considering - the new rear shock has transformed it. Brakes are very 20th century, but still do the job. (They are definitely lower league compared to modern Brembo's) . Brakes need rebuilding every 2 or 3 years. Strip, clean, new seals, new fluid, new pads.
Awesome bit of kit. Responsive from low down. Just as happy bimbling at 4000 revs or giving it the berries on the red line. Mine uses a bit of oil these days - just check the level regularly.
It's not a Honda - however mine has faired quite well. It has been garaged throughout it's life, although it has seen a lot of rain in the last 23 years. Reg /rec failed after about 12 years, I've done a few fork seals, refurbed the brakes several times, changed the stem seals, and renewed the rear shock. I've got 35k on the clock and this bike has used as designed. I'm happy with reliability.
I do mine own, change brake fluid every 2 years, oil & filter every 2 years and fork oil when I need to do a fork seal. (Might as well do the oil in both forks when you have stripped the front end anyway)
I have given this 5 out 5 for equipment because it doesn't have computers, modes or anything unnecessary. It has all the essentials. Currently running michelins - I've never had a bad tyre, and usually see what is on offer when I need new.
Buying experience: Bought new from Motorcycle City in 1999. (They went bust ages ago and to be honest I wouldn't recommend them if they were still about.) I paid £6495 OTR with 4 years 0% finance. (Which is why I used Motorcycle City). Once you have signed on the dotted line, they don't want to know you. (And the PDI was rubbish)
Version: G2
Year: 1999
Second one I've owned. I love these bikes
Hard on the wrists
Beautiful
Year: 1998
Best overall bike I think Great engine good handling and reliable And the colour green is the best
Just oil change and air filter every year
Buying experience: Dealer wanted a price but came down as I had cash and no trade in
Version: G1/G2
Year: 1998
There are no bad points on the 98 zx6r in my opinion, its sturdy, fast, easy to handle and looks really beautiful better than newer models.
Never had a single problem with mine, mechanical or otherwise only normal wear and tear.
Buying experience: Privately, easy and quick buy. I paid less than you would normally expect £830 ish with minor scratches from previous owner fall- fixed easily
Version: G1
Year: 1998
Anyone who needs a cheap, easy handling bike. A bit old now but anyway still good.
Abit hard seat and wrists on longer rides (1500km) but had 6000km with few stops but that was realy painfull In the end. Love the brakes and responds well.
Gives a good boost about 8000rpm but all over it's great fun.
Took 12 years for fuel pump to brake down and leak but otherwise nothing of greater importance.
Well guess it's in the normal range for part mostly with some exceptions.
The color? I just love the whole bike..was my dream bike and still got It.
Buying experience: Perfect. Cheap to buy..but not to insure.
Version: G2 ninja
Year: 1999
Annual servicing cost: £100
Engine characteristics are great. Strange tyre size 120/60/17 170/60/17.
Set it up for ur needs and except it's an older bike and it's just fine
Perfect, it has no power band, zero, it just pulls from 0-......., great for any sort of riding, lovely and well designed, my last bike was a 2000 srad and that was powerless till the power band then yeehaaa, great but no the best to live with all the time, the srad is faster, more nimble but is less comfy, less miles per tank, the ninja is no slouch it's just more everyday.
We'll build and reliable if it's been cared for.
Everything you need and no more. I fitted pilot road 3 tyres after using sports tyres and I'm very happy.
Buying experience: Bought private for £1225, bargain. All original except exhaust can and data tool alarm and immobiliser
This is my first 600 (moved up from a geared 50 :P) and it really is a brilliant machine, the only downsides are that I'm 6ft so it can get abit wristy and the fact that it doesn't have a fuel light. Other than that this is a truley awsome bike!
Had my 6r for a year and love it it's quick, reliable and cost effective.
i bought this bike a few years ago,as it was comfortable and roomy,brakes were a bit spongy but discs and pads/hose upgrade sorted that!also ohlins steering damper,who needs a new 600 these are just as good,and can easily keep up the pace
I am very proud to be riding this bike, yeah its the biggest i've ridden, but what a bike i love it. the sound from my scorpion can through the k&n is awesome, very addictive. I covered 800 miles when i bought it few weeks ago in a week and enjoyed it all, i've never felt so confident in the wet and the power in all gears is soo useable, it goes faster than the figures say too, the 3 pot brakes are awesome too and the bike is soo comfy compared to any other sports bike i've rode, go by one i got mine from dealer with extras and a warranty with 11k on the clock and 2 new tyres for ....wait for it 2 grand. the best 2 grand i ever spent, and no the green ones not faster lol
Sorry to all of you that think Kwaks are only green, the Black/Gunmetal G1 is the best! Went like stink, the engine is unbelievable after bandits and the like, and the airbox howl makes it seem 20mph faster, especially with a micron can. Build quality seems good, after 7 years my G1 is mint, not even a hint of corrosion. Riding position is ace for tall riders, had to ride an SV650 for a month after being knocked off it and hated every minute in comparison. Screen is great, mirrors steady and clear, the whole bike screams quality. Will never buy anything except Kawasaki again! Strengths: Engine, looks (NOT green!) Ride quality, Build, Sound (oh yes!). Weaknesses: You will be devastated if you crash it! Seat wobbles(!) Crappy stiff fuel tap, hard to find an un-bodged original one.
This was my 1st big bike,i t is a cracking bike for a 1st timer. It is comfy enough for short or longer distance riding, not to painful on the wrists. Riding position is user friendly not over stretched & this is from a 5ft 9inch bloke. Get it to 9000rpm & it is instant grin factor. Strengths: Changed from Bridgestone 010's what it came with over to the 020's. These are a little more hard wearing, but still gives loads of feel. Weaknesses: None for the bike, only me because I can't get the best from it.
This bike has taken everything in its stride. Almost 40000 miles in five years with no major problems. Everything from daily commutes to European tours. Its still great to look at, still puts a huge grin on my face, and still comfy for 400 miles in a day. What more could you ask for? Just the noise it makes at high revs is enough to make anyone laugh and grin like an idiot. Strengths: Engine, noise, comfort, easy handling, brakes, 180 miles from a tank, reliability...... Weaknesses: Expensive when you drop it. Could do with a bit more power now I'm used to it. (An extra 36cc might sort it...).
I have a 99 G2 model and only planned to keep it for 2 years. I'm on my 4th year and still plan on keeping it for at least another 2. I just love it's mix of raw power, easy handling and still good looks and comfort. It is used every single day for commuting and 3-4 trackdays in the fast group too. It takes it all in it's stride superbly. Reliable and economical too! Just love it. Strengths: Performance. Steering. Brakes ( after hoses and pad change ). Economy. Comfort. Weaknesses: On 3rd set of fork seals and 2nd set of brake discs.
When I was looking for a sports 600, it was between the GSXR and the ZXR, The ZXR won on looks, and I'm glad I went for it, I like the riding position and power delivery, the induction niose on this bike is something else, the engine appears to be unbustable, finish isn't Honda quality, but its stood up well to all year round riding. Strengths: Looks, Engine. Weaknesses: Carb icing, Dunlops.
Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycle review - Side view
Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycle review - Front view
Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycle review - Side view
Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycle review - Riding
Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycle review - Riding
Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycle review - Riding
Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycle review - Side view
Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycle review - Side view
Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycle review - Side view
Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycle review - Front view
Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycle review - Rear view
Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycle review - Front view
Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycle review - Exhaust
Kawasaki ZX-6R motorcycle review - Riding
