YAMAHA YZF-R6 (2011-2012) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 2012, Yamaha launched the YZF-R6, a motorcycle loaded with top-notch technologies that provided a more rewarding experience for both daily riding and track days. The R6 was fitted with MotoGP technology and offered outstanding engine and chassis performance that was usually reserved for professional racers.

With the knowledge gained from all the racing years, the Yamaha YZF-R6 was a light and powerful machine, but also the most advanced motorcycle made by Yamaha at the time and the first production motorcycle that featured the Yamaha Chip Controlled Throttle (YCC-T) system that offered flawless response under all conditions.

The compact and lightweight engine featured lightweight titanium valves and lightweight forged pistons that provided incredible horsepower and a redline set at 16,000 rpm. The 599cc four-stroke four-cylinder liquid-cooled engine delivered an output power of 129 hp with a peak at 14,500 rpm and 66 Nm (48 lb-ft) of torque available at 11,500 rpm.

All that power was converted into speed by a six-speed manual transmission with a back-torque-limiting clutch that offered great braking and downshifting from high speeds while launching the bike to a top speed of 257 kph (160 mph).

In addition, the 2012 Yamaha YZF-R6 came with an adjustable front brake lever, a lightweight O-ring chain for reduced weight, a steering lock, a lightweight, low-maintenance sealed gel-type battery, and a lightweight aluminum side stand and chain adjusters.