The Yamaha YZF-600 Thundercat this No Kitty

Tweaked engine from the Yamaha FZR600R sportsbike in a legendary Deltabox chassis frame, designed to be the perfect combination of light weight and rigidity for super-precise handling and cornering. Really comfy, good fuel range, splendid brakes and bulging midrange. Four 36mm Keihin CV downdraft carburetors ensure crisp, seamless throttle response throughout the rev range.

The Yamaha FZR600R is powered by a liquid-cooled, DOHC four-cylinder in-line, ram-air-fed 16-valve with digital TCI ignition 599cc powerplant, the engine uses a high 12:1 compression ratio, to produce a strong, 33 horsepower, yet street-friendly. The close-ratio six-speed transmission with multi-plate clutch, provides optimal power, delivery power perfectly tuned for both aggressive sport riding and everyday commuting.

What should I look out for if you consider buying the bike secondhand?
The brake calipers - they can seize. The engine is pretty solid and there are few reliability worries. The clutch action feels imprecise, but check it's not slipping. Look at the rear tyre: a 170-section fits, but makes the steering slower. It's the perfect budget 600cc if you often carry a pillion.

Top tips, levers are not span-adjustable but you can fit adjustable ones. Heavier oil and stiffer springs in the front end works wonders. Tacho doubles as fault code reader: for instance, if it flicks up to 3000rpm when you turn the ignition on, the throttle-position sensor needs adjusting. Headlights is so-so: shove a halogen bulb in there. A set of easy-to-read analog speedometer, tachometer, odometer, and tripmeter with indicator lights for neutral, high beam, turn signals, low fuel and oil monitor all systems.

For suspension Yamaha uses for the front a 41mm telescopic fork with adjustable preload, compression and rebound damping; 13cm travel suspension which offers race-inspired suspension performance with ultra-precise rider feedback during aggressive riding conditions. For the rear suspension Yamaha uses a single shock with remote reservoir and adjustable preload, compression and rebound damping; 12cm travel delivers super-precise handling performance and maximum versatility. Lightweight, cast-alloy, three-spoke 17-inch wheels front and back reduce unsprung weight and support modern radial tires, 120/60-ZR17 front and 160/60-ZR17 rear, for excellent grip and handling.