600cc bikes lie in a sweet spot in the market. They’re affordable to buy and insure, not overpowered for road riding, and feature big enough engines that their strength-to-weight ratio starts to get interesting.
Just remember – engine capacity is only one way of measuring a bike’s grunt. Power to weight ratio is a more effective metric.
The following bikes are fast, light, and powerful – ride carefully.
Honda CBR 600 RR
Specs:
- Top Speed: 162mph
- Engine: 599cc Double-Overhead Cam
- Cooling: Liquid-Cooled
- Induction: Fuel-Injection
- Max Power: 118hp
- Seat Height: 820mm
- Dry Weight: 156kg
Honda makes reliable bikes, and among their range, the CBR series is mainly known for its reliability and build quality. Since its introduction in 2003, the CBR 600 has been the gold standard for 600cc, racing-inspired Supersports bikes.
Its aerodynamic looks are very much MotoGP-inspired. But, thankfully, the CBR 600 is made to handle the road beautifully. The track elements in its DNA are still present. But the light, agile handling and its 118hp make this one of the most popular Supersport models on earth.
The exceptional handling is down to the choice of Showa big piston front forks and Unit Pro-link rear mono-shock. Honda’s HESD (Honda Electric Steering Dampener) creates optimum dampening force, giving you maximum control.
For many, the real appeal of the CBR 600 RR is as much in the way it handles. Many bikes can output speed and power comparable to this machine, but few offer such excellent control alongside all that power.
There’s a reason many people consider this bike the king of the 600cc class. Unfortunately, saving some large revisions to make this compliant with the latest emissions laws, the 2017 model is the last CBR 600 RR on the market.
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
Specs:
- Top Speed:175mph
- Engine: 636cc
- Cooling: Liquid-Cooled
- Induction: DFI Injection
- Max Power: 126.2hp
- Seat Height: 1100mm
- Dry Weight: 182kg
The Kawasaki Ninja name has been synonymous with thrilling motorcycling for decades now. And in its latest iteration, the Ninja delivers on that pedigree. The only complaint we’ve seen levelled at this current Ninja is that it’s so similar to the previous models.
But when a bike has a reputation for reliability and for being a monster on the road and track, why change it?
Adjustable Showa front forks are stiff when needed but compress nicely into corners. There’s no sense of skittishness. Sometimes, when a sportbike attempts the feeling of lightweight steering, the result can be terrifying. The Ninja’s steering and suspension are confidence-inspiring.
There’s also the fact that the Ninja is a chunk cheaper than some of its rivals. There’s a significant difference compared to a Honda CBR or a Yamaha R6.
Given the build quality, reliability, and performance found here; the Ninja is a very compelling option in the 600cc market.
Of course, there’s also the 175mph top speed. That alone will attract some.
Yamaha R6
Specs:
- Top Speed: 175mph
- Engine: 599cc
- Cooling: Liquid-Cooled
- Induction: Electronic Injection
- Max Power: 117hp
- Seat Height: 850mm
- Dry Weight: 166kg
If the mighty R6 doesn’t have enough top-end for you, then we recommend seeing a doctor. With a max power output of 117hp and a top speed of 175mph, the R6 is plenty of bike for anyone.
The original R6 was the first 600cc bike to break the 100hp barrier. And while this trait is now shared with many other bikes on our list, the R6 is still the most commonly ridden bike on the world supersport circuit.
In addition to its whopping 117hp and 175mph top speed, the R6 features traction control and a first-class braking system. This feels like a modern machine for a bike that’s genesis was 22 years ago.
Electronic rider controls, an Akrapovic race exhaust system, and a fuel-injected engine mean this is a cutting-edge bike.
Like many bikes on our list, the R6 has lost some power output thanks to stricter, Euro-4 emissions standards. Currently, Yamaha offers an R6 Race model. This track-only GTYR model includes parts from Yamaha’s in-house tuning team, making it one of the most compelling track models available.
But we’d still opt for the street-legal model. Better to have something to ride home after a track day.
Suzuki GSX R 600
Specs:
- Top Speed: 165mph
- Engine: 599cc
- Cooling: Liquid-Cooled
- Induction: Fuel-INjection
- Max Power: 125hp
- Seat Height: 1125cm
- Dry Weight: 160kg
On paper, the GSX R doesn’t sound as impressive as some of its rivals in this 600cc class. Of the bikes we’ve listed, only the CBR 600 RR has lower power output. But like the Honda mentioned above, there’s something in the way the GSX handles and delivers that power that makes it a joy to ride.
Doubtless, part of that is due to the low weight of this bike. The GSX was already a lightweight machine, and the latest model (2017-2018) has shaved a further 9kg from its overall weight. Some of this has been achieved with the twin-spar aluminium frame. This is lighter and shorter than the previous frame while retaining good flex properties.
The Showa big piston forks are a new addition to the GSX R 600. There’s plenty of adjustment for controlled riding on the track or the road.
The adjustable footpegs are also a nice touch. Combined with the comfortable seat and clip-on bars that don’t require you to bend over double, the GSX is a comfortable machine for how fast it goes.
Triumph Daytona 675
Specs:
- Top Speed: 165mph
- Engine: 675cc
- Cooling: Liquid-Cooled
- Induction: Electronic Fuel Injection, Forced Air Induction
- Max Power: 126hp
- 0Seat Height: 820mm
- Dry Weight: 167kg
The Daytona 675 was introduced in 2006 and was iterated upon until 2018. In the process, Triumph has produced what many consider a Supersport masterpiece.
A triple-cylinder, monster 675cc engine in a lightweight aluminium frame, the Daytona 675 is another of the fastest 600s that’s been phased out by emissions laws.
But, considering these were made up until 2018, there are a few floating around on the secondhand market. And for riders after all-out speed and thrills, this Triumph is worth a look – not least because of the stunning visuals.
Triumph is known for its aesthetic prowess. Machines like the Bonneville set the standard for what a motorcycle should look like for forty years. But the company was not known for its contemporary Supersports designs, which were usually eclipsed by their Japanese rivals.
This machine looks and feels just as good as the competition – if a little more visceral. The Daytona doesn’t opt for the electronic rider’s aids common in many bikes and keeps things old school. This is an excellent way to do it if you want to feel the sensation of speed.
Aprilia RS 660
Specs:
- Top Speed: 147mph
- Engine: 659cc
- Cooling: Liquid-Cooled
- Induction: Air Box Intake, Ride-By-Wire management
- Max Power: 100hp
- Seat Height: 825mm
- Dry Weight: 169kg
The Aprilia RS 660 might not have the all-out top speed of some bikes on our list. But the fact that this is still in production makes it special.
Few of the fastest 600cc class bikes can pass the latest Euro-5 emissions standards. Thankfully, these only apply to new models sold. You can continue to ride your crazy-fast Gixxer.
But for those who want something brand new that can hang with the big boys, the Aprilia RS 660 is a nice option. The lightweight aluminium frame and swingarm keep the weight down and well-balanced. This distribution of weight contributes to excellent handling.
The latest iteration of the RS 660 opts for a slightly larger front fairing. The result is better weather protection and a more aerodynamic ride. This could have hurt the looks of the bike. Thankfully, the distribution of volume throughout the bike results in a classic, sporty outline. And it also uses Aprilia’s Performance Ride Control system for maximum control in every situation.
MV Agusta F3 675
Specs:
- Top Speed: 160mph
- Engine: 675cc
- Cooling: Liquid-Cooled
- Induction: Electronic Injection
- Max Power: 126hp
- Seat Height: 805mm
- Dry Weight: 173kg
The Agusta F3 has a very distinctive, triple-cylinder roar. And though the original model is over a decade old, the F3 remains one of the most beloved 600s on the market today.
The internal layout has changed, boasting a quick-shifter, slipper clutch, and 8-point traction control system. But the trellis frame and minimal fairing hold onto that classic, Italian racing look.
If looking and sounding good is high on your list of priorities, this bike won’t serve you wrong. The only complaint we’ve heard levelled at the F3 is that its power delivery is not always as smooth as its rivals, creating an occasional jerkiness in acceleration.
Apart from this, it offers a wild and generally smooth ride thanks to its MotoGP-inspired counter-rotating crank.
Sadly, production of these stopped with the advent of the Euro-5 laws in 2021. And short of a significant downgrade in power to satisfy those criteria, the F3 will be available on the second-hand market only. But with these in production for over a decade, plenty can be found online.
Yamaha YZF Thundercat 600
Specs:
- Top Speed: 153mph
- Engine: 599cc
- Cooling: Liquid-Cooled
- Induction: Carburettor
- Max Power: 100hp
- Seat Height: 810mm
- Dry Weight: 189kg
The Thundercat is the first sports-touring hybrid model on our list. The “touring” part of this moniker means increased weight, slightly worse aerodynamics, and softer suspension. But it also means you can carry a passenger comfortably, add some luggage racks, and ride for hours without back pain.
Whether or not this is worth sacrificing the 20kg and 10-15mph is up to you. But those who are OK with this bike’s more relaxed, touring design will find it reliable and powerful.
Tuned for low and mid-range performance, the Thundercat is no slouch regarding acceleration or all-out speed. The only bikes on the road that will beat you are true sports bikes which can sink into and out of corners more efficiently.
This bike was only manufactured from 2003-2004. Despite this short run, it has developed a fanbase.
The engine is, in essence, a detuned R6. And some of the power of the R6 is lost. But the upside is increased durability and reliability without losing too much of that legendary power. The lack of ABS might put off some newer riders who aren’t familiar with the Dark Ages.
Honda CBR 600 F4
Specs:
- Top Speed: 160mph
- Engine: 599cc
- Cooling: Liquid-Cooled
- Induction: Carburettor
- Max Power: 110hp
- Seat Height: 810mm
- Dry Weight: 168kg
Old does not mean slow. Especially when modern emissions laws throttle how a motorcycle can produce power. Honda’s CBR 600 F4 model is an old beast.
Made from 1999-2000 and with many models still on the road, the CBR 600 F4 can be found cheaper than most of the bikes on our list. And it competes well in terms of speed.
There is a fuel-injected model that came out a year later. This version was produced from 2000 to 2007 and is a fine example of a 600cc machine.
They don’t look as edgy and razor-sharp as the modern CBR RR designs. But they do have a certain chunky appeal. Thankfully, they handle just as well as their sporty counterparts, with the later models offering fully-adjustable suspension.
The carburettor version of this machine (1999-2000) could also be a good choice for those who like to do their own maintenance and other work. Compared to many of the electronically enhanced, newer machines on our list, the original F4 is blessedly simple.