Motorcycle specifications YamahaSZR 660 1998 Mono-sport lesson

twin or 4-cylinder, these are the 2 main architectures that have been found in sportbikes for ages. Yamaha's approach to its new small sports bike is quite different, and not lacking in originality. The idea is to offer a machine with a taste for sport, with respectable performance but without costing an arm and a leg. Interesting, isn't it? The result is the SZR 660, whose chassis is closely based on the dynamic TZR 250 (only sold in Japan). The big surprise comes from the engine: it's a single-cylinder. Yes, it's surprising... It's true that this choice may seem strange. But, come to think of it - a single-cylinder engine is by definition a mill with character, which gratifies the rider with a good kick in the pants and a good potato available very early on.
Yam didn't look far for an engine. He took the 660 from the trail XTZ and gave it a slight makeover. In fact, only the gearbox (1st gear) has been modified, and the crown gear has been cut by six teeth.

So, with a trail bike and a sharpened chassis, what is this pretty little sports bike capable of? Let's start by arousing curiosity. The design of the front end is both attractive and light. The inverted fork and frame, reminiscent of that of the FZR, are a sign of seriousness. The two-tone seat and the rather massive rear end, which adds to the overall look, may be less appealing. The swingarm, banana-shaped on the right and reinforced on the left, makes up for it all.
48 hp may sound light, but so is the machine. Weighing less than 180 kgs in the wet, it's a pleasure to ride. Sporty dashboard (with a red zone at... 7,000 rpm), useless mirrors, half-handlebars under the fork crown, stooped riding position tilted to the front - enough to motivate you to attack, but not really to go into town. Although maneuverable, light and docile in the city, the SZR quickly becomes tiresome, steering without optimism, and it doesn't take long for your wrists to grumble. OK, forget about the ride!

What about this mono? Well, it doesn't really excite. Already, it lacks a little flexibility and watts at low revs. With a transmission like this, that's to be expected... It polishes up the feel far too much. And it's far too discreet. The exhaust muffler lives up to its name and literally suffocates it
While the chassis is cut out for the twisty roads of deepest France, the mono-engine needs to be revved beyond 3,500 rpm to respond properly. The power it delivers ensures very honest performance, but its behavior is not seductive: no kick, no mood swings, too smooth a face. On the other hand, it allows you to control the watts perfectly. They never overwhelm you, leaving you free to improvise.

You'll learn how to ride, with the emphasis on cornering speed, and learn riding techniques without worrying about big nags pushing at the rear wheel.
The bike is very sound, the suspension pleasant and effective, the agility and stability reassuring, although we would have appreciated a little more liveliness, as the machine is not very incisive in this respect. The single disc doesn't have the equipment claims of a hypersport, but it's well suited to this type of small sports bike. The SZR 660 leaves a mixed bag, although the bike is not lacking in interest. The engine isn't as pleasant as we'd hoped, but the chassis is very appealing. However, its price tag opens up new prospects for young enthusiasts: for the price of a trail bike, they can afford a small sports bike that won't break the bank in terms of maintenance. Ah, if only it had more character...

M.B
(inspired by S. Van Gelder's article - Moto-journal n°1 190
manufacturer's photos)