YAMAHA YZF-R6 (2006-2007) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 2007, Yamaha launched the YZF-R6, the smaller brother of the R1 model, which came with multiple tweaks for the engine and suspension, but also featured a unique Formula 1-inspired style and proved to be the machine of choice for those riders who didn't accept any compromises.

The bike had at its core an ultra-compact and lightweight engine with a cylinder head design that featured lightweight titanium valves for both intake and exhaust, lightweight forged pistons that provided high rpm power and fast engine response, lightweight crankshafts, and much more tweaks that raised the red line all the way up to 16,000 rpm.

As for the power figures, the 599cc four-stroke four-cylinder liquid-cooled engine delivered an output power of 125 hp with a peak at 14,500 rpm and 59 Nm (44 lb-ft) of torque available at 11,500 rpm.

All the power produced by the engine was converted into speed by a six-speed manual transmission with a back-torque-limiting clutch that spun the rear wheel to a top speed of 255 kph (158 mph).

In addition, the 2007 Yamaha YZF-R6 packed a durable and lightweight aluminum clip-on handlebar that offered optimal vibration damping, a narrow fuel tank that provided great ergonomics and an aggressive seating position, dual multi-reflector headlights with a sleek profile for better aerodynamics and visibility, a dual taillight design, and a standard toolkit located in a storage compartment under the passenger seat.