Motorcycle specifications YamahaYZF-R6 600 20ème anniversaire 2019 The clock is ticking, the rev counter is sublime

A bit like a rifle bullet. That's how the first R6, released in 1999, felt. Placid in the low to mid-range, it became hysterically enjoyable once it passed 10,000 rpm. A real afterburner that would give you goose bumps and an indelible banana.

20 years later, a special "20th anniversary" edition was invited to the big YZF owners' meeting at the Sugo circuit in Japan. This latest-generation YZF-R6 was decked out in a dress that mirrored the first model's decor. From the white nappage to the red effluvia to the calligraphy of the period, everything has been transposed in its entirety.
A fine piece of work, intended as a timeless wink. However, there are no special goodies for this model. No pot, no special racing or tuning parts, and for good reason: this is not a Yamaha special edition, but an initiative by Presto Corporation. This Japanese importer has close ties with Yamaha. In reference to GK Dynamics, a company working closely with Yam on motorcycle design, they created this "R6 20th Anniversary" for the pleasure of the eyes at the YZF-R Owners Meeting.

Many loved it, and one of them could win it. Not scheduled for sale, this one-off model can be won in a draw to be held on June 28. We can see the disappointment for fans of this pistarde. But let's hope that Yamaha is sensitive to the enthusiasm generated by this creation, and gives in to the temptation of producing an official limited edition.

A lot has changed since the little bombshell at the end of the century. From a conventional fork, it has moved to an R1 front axle with inverted fork and radial brake calipers. The carburetor manifold, which gave it its volcanic character, has been replaced by a fuel injection system supervised by traction control and a choice of three fuel injection maps. The perimeter frame is die-cast aluminum, the air intake is variable, a shifter has made its appearance and the design is now identified with the MotoGP M1. It's only in terms of power that the 2019 pulls its punches, as required by anti-pollution standards. But once it's out on the track with its breath released, the R6 pedals like an overexcited woman.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos