YAMAHA YZF-R6S (2007-2008) Specs, Performance & Photos

In 2008, Yamaha released the YZF-R6S, a motorcycle that, for the untrained eyes, was easily mistaken for its track-focused R6 sibling, but despite their similarities, there were two different beasts.

The R6S was the urban version of the R6, with a revised seating position and a slightly tamed engine that delivered the peak power and torque in the lower rpm range, an incredible combination of power, performance, and style that made it a do-it-all sports bike.

The lightweight aluminum Deltabox frame offered the perfect rigidity balance with its engine used as a stressed member and the removable aluminum rear subframe with fewer welding points that reduced weight, which resulted in a light frame design and great handling response.

In the performance department, the bike featured an ultra-compact, lightweight engine with lightweight forged pistons and a powerful 32-bit Electronic Control Unit (ECU) with computer-perfected mapping that provided precise ignition timing, maximum response, and power output.

The 2008 Yamaha YZF-R6S had at its core a 599cc four-stroke four-cylinder liquid-cooled engine that delivered an output power of 127 hp with a peak at 14,500 rpm and 66 Nm (49 lb-ft) of torque available at 11,000 rpm.

In addition, the bike featured a lightweight, durable clip-on handlebar that reduced vibrations, high premium Dunlop tires mounted on lightweight five-spoke wheels, a five-position adjustable front brake lever, an under-seat helmet holder, and fold-out bungee cord straps under the seat.