Motorcycle specifications YamahaXJ6 600 2013 The return of solid values

After several years of loyal service, the XJ6 is approaching the end of its evolution. Will it change radically? Will it cruelly demote the old version? Should we expect a new generation?
Relax the electrocardiogram: the roadster is only evolving in terms of design, and then only in small steps. For 2013, some elements have been redesigned and others updated. The XJ6 gains new radiator scoops, a more aerodynamic headlamp surround, translucent white turn indicators, LED dashboard lighting and a chain tension indicator. In terms of comfort, the saddle is covered with a non-slip cover and the passenger has new, more ergonomic grips. No radical changes, then, for this big-bore access machine. It's simply fine-tuning what shows.

genesis:

the philosophy behind the medium-displacement XJs remains as some of us knew it while we were looking for the magic pink paper: to offer a motorcycle that's easy to access, reasonably priced, good for everything, with the right amount of power. The XJ6 respects these codes. But there's no question of looking sad, because the competition has plenty of pep. Yam has therefore insisted a little on the design of the bodywork, with an FZ1 headlamp topped by a ruby-shaped pilot light, sharpened radiator scoops, a small engine cowling and a few plastic parts to reinforce the look. With its slim rear end and muffler removed (it's tucked under the engine), the XJ6 is a real eye-catcher. Its profile stands in stark contrast to its bigger rivals: it looks incisive and muscular, while a Honda CBF is wise and reassuring, while the Kawa ER-6n is fun, playful and svelte. The Bandit, on the other hand, seems more impulsive.

on the technical side, there's no need to bother with a Superbike chassis, which would be useless (and expensive) for its clientele. The XJ6 has a diamond-shaped frame with steel tubes. Simple and functional, it houses an engine based on the 4-cylinder architecture of the FZ6, itself derived from the 2003 R6. Cylinder head, crankcase, camshafts, intake/exhaust systems, clutch and gear selection have all been revised to suit the XJ6. It has been extensively redesigned to offer flexibility and availability, in keeping with the widely versatile nature of its use. As a result, this sedan is in the same league as machines in the same segment. The powertrain comparison with the other Japanese models will be close - The evolution is much more marked, however, if we refer to the data of the previous XJ: it was equipped with an air-cooled 4-cylinder engine with 2 valves per cylinder and 61 hp. Its descendant is equipped with a liquid-cooled engine, twice as many valves, and 78 hp at 10,000 rpm.

with the wave of street-fighters arriving in recent years, it's strange to find a bike with wise values, much more suited to our "safe" environment. The chassis data tell us that this is a pleasant bike, not particularly playful, but not tricky either. A 1,440 mm wheelbase, 26° rake, conventional 41 mm forks, double-piston brake calipers and optional ABS - nothing sporty, but playful and functional in an attractive package.
Standardization obliges, and the XJ6 uses the same dashboard as the FZ series. By opting for classic elements such as a simple swingarm, a rear light with bulbs, a braking system that's more than adequate without being an R1 front end, a steel frame and a well-proven engine, this Yamaha is able to offer a reasonable price. Like the late XJ6, but more modern.
And for those looking for a bit of protection or a bit of road-ability, don't forget that the XJ6 doubles as the Diversion version, equipped with a good-sized fork head.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos