GSXR 600 vs R6 vs CBR600rr vs ZX6r What is the Best 600cc Japanese Bike to Get?

This video primarily covers what is the best sport bike to buy used around the years of 2006-2010 between the Suzuki GSXR 600 (and 750), Yamaha R6, Honda CBR600rr, and the Kawasaki ZX6r. At the end I also cover what I think the best new bike would be out of these four. I go in depth looking at important factors such as availability, braking, reliability, recalls, common problems and complaints, power, torque, riding comfort, ease to work on, parts prices, suspension and handling, transmission feel and more. I have personally owned a 2007 GSXR 600 and a 2006 Yamaha R6 and have put over 15,000 miles on each one. I have ridden a 2003, 2008, 2009, 2012 CBR600rr, a 2006, 2007 Yamaha R6, a 2000, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2011, 2017 GSXR 600/750 and a 2007, 2015, and 2019 ZX6r. These opinions come from my own opinion after riding each of these bikes, online research, and numerous conversations with owners of these bikes that have ridden much more than I have and who can really speak to the quality and feel of these bikes more then I can. I did my best to rate them in different categories and provide viewers and potential future owners of these bikes advice on which bike to get and why.

[@rr.cycles]

This video deserves so so much more views, cant believe I haven’t seen it yet with how much I’ve researched. I’m looking at getting a 2020 cbr600 in a few months

[@ARYAAN63]

Thank you for the reliability section and making a video on the older (06-09) model years. ❤

[@JamesTake2]

Earned a sub - Really appreciate such an in-depth video on these bikes, you deserve more credit, ride safe brother!

[@LazyAssWins]

Your body type and experiences are unique to you yet i appreciate taking the time to post matey, there's still areas that you pointed to that are good places to start in getting to know your own bike.

[@ppg19782]

The 2006-7 GSXR'S have a lot of electrical issues. On the 2008-9-10 the front light was changed on those years and they look nice What really gets me is that the prices in all of them manufacturers are just about the price of a new one. If you good mechanical go for it...and be happy with what you get. Am doing research in different years on the 600's...that's plenty of power. Am new in the riding adventures and just try to buy the proper bike ...but then again nothing is proper. And the saga continues... I watched your video for the length of time...got my popcorn 🍿, my drink, hotdog and my notebook to get more info to learn about different brands. Safe riding Much blessings 🙌 Ty for the video. 🏍🏍🏍😎😎😎💪💪💪

[@Mr9Guns]

Good video, I'm really thinking of getting a CBR600RR or GSXR600 for next riding season.

[@mbag012]

Kawasaki isn't listed often on auction sites because people love them, they don't sell it once they buy it

[@uuu48119]

Kawis have linear power as same as the hondas that's one of the biggest reassons why they are the number one stunt bikes if you try kawis probabli they are beatten and not Well maintened that's why you had bad feedback from the 636 but if It's well maintened It has no issue I personally own a 03 to 04 one and Im in love with It great information by the way keep the hard work

[@mentoredbylife9730]

The best video that has been made on this topic

[@damonscott4392]

Thanks for taking so much time to be detailed on so many issues. Im looking to start riding (MSF in 1 month) and don’t have a bike yet. You brought up issues I would not have thought to consider. 👍🏾

[@Unknwn_Senpai]

So that's why my engine braking is so hard, the 07 CBR is my first step into the super sport world so I've just assumed everything is a superr sport thing. I have noticed she can SNAP pretty hard if I give it too much throttle and pop the clutch. Definitely see how people can clutch up so easy on these things!

[@andydz8072]

Thanks bro . Best video ever on 600 cc ❤

[@hellfire08]

Let’s be honest. they are all great.

[@johnchase6582]

I've had an 06 gsxr 750 and an 05 zx6r and I feel like the zx6r is my favorite honestly because the power band was smooth and user friendly and it felt way lighter in the corners. Felt like the gsxr 750 was way more snatchy but just keep in mind neither of my bikes had stock gearing. The 750 did feel a lot more stable tho because of the built in steering dampener. I liked both of them very much but the kawi was definitely less reliable lmao.

[@Pizzlewond]

Appreciate the effort you put into the video man

[@TheWolf047]

Thanks for making this.. gsxr 600 DREAM BIKE!! SubD!

[@CamoEffectiveness]

Thank you for making this video. This video was very helpful in deciding what bike to get as a second motorcycle.

[@JW-vr6lo]

Had a cbr600 for 4 years, now have a gsxr600 for over 2 years, gsxr maintenance is easier to work on, it has a slipper clutch with less engine breaking, its more comfortable on longer rides. I just thought the cbr looked better, sounded better, and handled slightly better. Rode a zx6r, awesome power band, but didn't like the breaks and it doesn't come with a steering damper, and my back and wrist was killing me within 30 minutes. I know all about the gsxr750, but the 600s power and better agility is all I'll ever need.

[@CabatoCK]

How tall are you? I’m interested in the comfort of these bikes for me

[@danetiohelslijnen1767]

thank you so much for this video i had so many questions, but you covered them all!!

[@jayjames3929]

amazing video homie! thanks debating between gixer 600 and r6! keeep making content!

[@fpd-6912]

Super detailed comparing video Not deside to get 600cc Still appreciate for the deep explain of differences between each brand

[@ryanstrickland2989]

couldn't agree more with your opinion and the order you placed them in. great video.

[@justinedward81]

Love your dedication and research buddy. I did watch from 0.00 till full end. Thank you for the info and respect your work. I still love my honda cbr 600 and glad is decent on your list. Honda does have their stuff together.

[@M16xDr0pSh0tz]

I think the zx6r looks better than the r6, smaller protruding windshield and more tighter look

[@chrismoody1342]

Boy I don’t think I’ve ever heard anyone trash a Kawasaki as bad as you. I’ve been reading and listening to reviews of the 600’class sportbikes since 2005 and most put the Suzuki and Honda at the bottom of the list. Me and my son both have Kawasaki ZX6R’s, his is an 05’ and mine an 07’. We both bought them second hand, his with 21,000 miles and mine with 4900. Neither one has had a single issue in our ownership. I’ve been riding bike for 58 years and think every thing you said in regards to clutch, transmission and brake feel is ludicrous. I’m a satisfied Kawasaki owner. Matter of fact is, I got a 45 year old Kawasaki Z1 that is still running strong.

[@brucewayne-ej3cx]

Best break down ever. Good job bro. I have a 14r6 and I understand.

[@flintbl6540]

A video like this for the 2013/14 year 600’s would be amazing if you have any to test or know about, new sub after watching this vid👌🏼

[@malikphillips4794]

Thank you so much for this video!

[@CabatoCK]

An updated comparison with newer models would be great

[@megapet777]

I thought gsxr 600 would be best but after hearing the bad clutch, its doesnt seems so good anymore. kawasaki seems to have most issues. R6 looks great but uncomfortable seating positions and 0 power at low revs doesnt make it the best choice for daily driver. So that leaves honda. The only real problem with them is that they are bit rarer, but can still find them. Honda's always been known for their reliabality. I guess its the best 600 imo then.

[@megapet777]

@@thegoldbarron9504 2003-2006

[@megapet777]

@@thegoldbarron9504 Yeah you talking about 06 gixxers? Cause I think cbr600rr should be reliable

[@megapet777]

Ollie Lune yeah I think it really comes down to the person. I would have to test ride bunch of bikes to know

[@lifeinthewhiskeys6144]

Great detailed video!

[@r6liam657]

I can say this now I got the Kawasaki zx6r 2006 and a Yamaha r6 2008 and everyone moans about how uncomfortable the Yamaha is but I’m not sure why but my wrists hurt more on the Kawasaki and I’m 5”9 and the Yamaha is taller but doesn’t hurt my wrists as much also this thing about the electronics over heating with the under tail exhaust iv had my kawasaki since 2012 and never had a problem with it no leaks no electrical faults or any of these things your pointing out it’s a solid bike as for the Yamaha I can’t really say because iv only had it for a year so no known faults from me just yet but I will agree the fairings are annoying to take off and the spark plugs are pretty hard to get to

[@iankrausz7690]

the kawaks no lackers. look at the torque figures. I've had all 4 brands and what Kawasaki miss in finesse they make up for in brute power. Ride really nicely too.

[@konstantindegtyarev1899]

My question is where you find fairings for 200 dollars? everywhere I look is about 400-500 USD. Also, in 2008 Suzuki fixed the rectifier issue for those wondering. If you have a 2005-2007 GSXR600 dont just replace the rectifier cause it will fail again, you need to get the relocation kit

[@tonylowe3525]

Excellent, thank you 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[@kangaroofat]

I just picked up a 2004 cbr600rr in show room condition I don't like all them soft driver modes

[@IProKrazyKiller]

Hey man! I just sold my first bike Suzuki 650F. Looking for a 600cc either one of these 4 or a daytona 675. I've only been riding street bikes for 2 months. I see comments saying Hondas and Kawi have the most linear which are the more forgiving? I know i have to respect the machine but as someone with not alot of experience i'd rather have a more forgiving bike. Also, I'm looking in the 2008+ range, are there any 600cc bikes that have a/b modes? I would feel alot more comfortable starting on a B mode. Thanks!!

[@fubarfubar579]

40 min vid, i subbed

[@timhartsock515]

GSXR clutches are known to go out so (5/5) Brakes GSXR major recall of master cylinder which is very very bad. (5/5)

[@shawnlack1527]

I’ve always felt that the cbr has lacked in every category, only thing it’s kinda decent at is comfort, even in the corners it doesn’t feel as good as the other 3, overall the R6/zx6 is your best go to’s

[@johnnyjorgensen4768]

Idk Honda is underperforming but over engineered. I think if you don't want to work on your own bike it's the only way to go. The reason there's never much aftermarket support for Honda? Honda owners don't replace anything! Ultimately the ride feels boring compared to others in class, and I personally would never own one, but I believe it comes down to what you want. You can't buy a reliable zx, so you have to choose what you want to compromise on.

[@someguy5863]

Great video

[@momchilnikolaev7843]

Great video! I watched the whole thing and I can say that you have put a lot of effort which I appreciate! Keep up with the good reviews and comparisons!

[@snareromie5295]

I like the r6 and the Gixxer

[@artnellwilliams3726]

Very interested video thank you so much I'm thinking of buying a use bike and was confused about which one to buy kawasaki never in mind just don't like them

[@aaronmarkham4424]

I’m torn between the CBR600RR or the ZX 6R completely forgetting the GSXR 600

[@dennyurie4038]

The zx 6r 4 sure

[@aaronmarkham4424]

@@dennyurie4038 that’s what I’m leaning towards I’m just not crazy about the color schemes for it

[@dannythealien]

I'm also trying to pick between the 2! I want the color of the cbr but the speed on the zx 6r

[@RocPackk]

Look for an 07-08 Cbr600rr. Watch videos about it to see why it’s regarded as one of the best 600cc bikes out

[@mbag012]

@@aaronmarkham4424 aftermarket fairings shouldn't be too hard to get. Search on eBay or Revzilla

[@tantiwahopak101]

Dang the kawi got murdered 😂 Just wondering what's your opinion on the 2020 zx6r?

[@86250r]

they are beast with non squid riders. exhaust, filter and mr12 is 120+ whp on the dyno. honestly with these 600s its all about the set up. a correct set up (gearing, tune, rider weight, other mods like ceramic wheel bearings, rotor delete, lighter battery etc) will absolutely gap non set up bikes that just have an exhaust and random flash

[@HalamadridV]

Thanks for this effort but you got lot of things wrong here !! I’ve wathed tons of videos comparing the 600s class by many champs and professionals riders from the UK and the US , and they all agreed that zx6r is the more friendly and smoother on the more comfortable on the street than any other class ever existed , and that the R6 is the best in track

[@ginti4725]

But I've always loved kawasaki's. What will I do. How hard is it to modify these bikes to out perform the stock bikes.

[@megatron7862]

This needs to be done with up to date 600’s

[@omarelfatri5701]

Best is Cbr 600rr

[@buckgraham9195]

I'm looking at a Honda cbr600rr 2019 with 800 miles on it for ten grand. now another guy with a 2021 called me and he is selling his for 9 grand but it has 4500 miles on it. Which bike should I get? Are miles really important or are they both low enough I don't have to worrie about it?

[@mbz205]

@The Gold Barron - Bro...Just finished this video from beg-end. 5-star review bro. Can you give me some advice on: Currently have a 2012 cbr600rr (28k miles), no issues, service on time, oil change. But after 28k miles, CBR just doesn't feel fun - mediocre power low-mid, feels heavy, & not as nimble turning/carving. However, bike/engine does feel tight if I'm pushing on highway which makes me feel safer, i guess. I'm thinking about a switch to a new 2019-2020 GSXR600. You said it might be a good overall new bike. Questions: 1. Is the new GSXR600 reliable (I don't really know how to work on bikes other than oil change and chain work. I do all my service at dealer)? 2. Does the engine feel tight like the Honda at high speeds? I think you brought up the issue of the engine feeling loose, can you explain? I think a bike would feel dangerous if the engine feels loose. Is this the case with gsxr600? I see in some videos, riders say Suzuki has superior engines? 3. Does the handle bars vibrate when riding, and is that normal? I hear people say the bars vibrate. My Honda doesn't have any issues, just feels heavy and not nimble. Any other potential negatives I should be aware of, and do you think I should make the switch? Thanks bro!

[@mbz205]

@@thegoldbarron9504 Thanks much for the insight!!! Yea definately alot of noise from those who only have 4-5k miles (seat time) and have been riding for 5 years lol. I have a great offer on a brand new 2019 gsxr600 for 6600 (not including fees), thats the only reason why I'm considering the switch. Sell old bike and get a new bike and maybe pay the difference of 1500-2500 (i hope). Am I being rational rational here about possibly making the switch? Also, will I regret not getting the 750 if I go with the 600? Is the difference night and day on 750 vs 600 (gsxr)? Will the 750 feel heavier than the 600? Lastly, would you buy a new gsxr600 or a used 750 with low miles from dealer? Thanks Gold!!!

[@mbz205]

@@thegoldbarron9504 Thanks bro!

[@mbz205]

IMO...Honda feels tighter when you throw it around in the corners, and that is VERY important. Suzuki just doesn’t feel like it’s well made. Been riding 2012 cbr600rr w/ 39k miles, then rode my buddies brand new gsxr600...feels loose, difficult to explain. Like baron said, roll on the throttle hard on the gsxr and that loose feeling becomes apparent, very sketchy. Can’t speak on Yamaha/ninja.

[@SystemAdministrator1]

The word you're looking for is Smooth

[@mbz205]

@@SystemAdministrator1 incorrect, that is not the word I’m looking for. Smooth ride vs tighter frame is not the same.

[@StreetPiratesTV]

Dude, I can just tell....You HATE Kawasaki. No 600 is touching my 2021 636. You're smoking dope dude.

[@jimmy737]

The kawasaki you reviewed isn't a 07 or 08 it's an 2009 model.

[@goldenTym]

I don't think my R6 is uncomfortable at all. Then again, it's the only bike I've ever owned... so...

[@ma.d.racingtrackdayteam5028]

Comfort is different for everybody. For ex, the nakedbikes are bad for my shoulders... I rode a 1998 srad and was tad too big a reach for me, but gave me the comfort and support i need on the track cause of physical issues. I drove my mates 09 r6 on track and was hell to me. Clipons seem lower than the seat is, i literally thought going over the bars every time i used the brakes. So i m going for a new gsxr instead of an r6, cause gixxers have lower seat heights AND clipons def higher than the seat.

[@phoenixarizona8441]

I'm gonna say 2006 gsxr 600 being I've had a 2006 gsx600f my

[@brianbrah2194]

I watched all the video

[@datsdylan007]

Yamaha and Honda

[@dennyurie4038]

Yamaha is the cheapest bike you can buy that should tell you something

[@nedialkosimonov3893]

@@dennyurie4038 cheap Yamaha? That was fun 😂😂😂

[@poxyzaid5282]

kawi always come with a reasonable price compare with the others.....to me it matters.

[@dennyurie4038]

Yamaha is the cheapest bike you can buy that should tell people something

[@poxyzaid5282]

@@thegoldbarron9504 well, i agree but to me i love my z800 so much , and i love yamaha r6 2017, not the new one , i hate the design i like r6 2008-2017 models and design love kawi and yammy...peace

[@lawrencedavidson296]

a ninja 400 is not a 636 my clutch on my 636 with 48,000kms is still perfect

[@mycool_p6483]

I’ve got a Ninja 400 1100 miles first bike and I don’t even know what a bad clutch would feel like 😂 maybe it is trash , maybe not?

[@sebastianopolignone8339]

Direi senz'altro il Kawasaki Ninja 636, io ho avuto il 2005 140cv e andava perfetto, esssndo 636 andava anke in basso, poi in alto era una FUCILATA!!! Me lhanno rubato in box dp 13 mesi ke l avevo, ho perso solo 400 euro da qlo ke lho pagata, 9000 euro con monoposto e portatarga, mi è dispiaciuto tanto anke se ho preso dall assicurazione 8600 euro e ho preso un Suzuki GSXR1000 del 2005, mi piaceva abbastanza, anke se nei cambi di direzione veloce nn era il massimo, molto meglio l R1 ke ho preso dp cn cui ho fatto un incidente mortale, morto 3 volte, 2 mesi e mezzo in coma, 16 costole rotte, le clavicole e un gomito, ora ho un Kawasaki Ninja 10R anno 2011 ke mi piace tantissimo e x pista nn targata ho un Suzuki GSXR 750 2008 e va molto bene, con scarico completo Ackrapovic centralina e filtro 172 cv, se cmq trovassi una R6 dal 2007 in poi, quindi gia qla piccola, x pista la prenderei, in strada ti fa incazzare un sacco xke sotto nn ha VERAMENTE nulla ma in alto è fortissima, in pista, lho provata a Misano ed è fantastica!!!

[@jorge600rr6]

🔥🔥✌🏽

[@motorbeancycle5075]

Suprising fact !!!! Only 06-07 gsxr 600 got 16k RPM .....WHILE OTHERS GOT 15K RPM ....IM NOT JOKING CHECK UR BIKR !!!

[@frankiecalsone8536]

интересно и информативно

[@racerrr2231]

💯👍🏾💯👍🏾💯👍🏾💯

[@nicknac4617]

Gsxr fan boy at its finest lol

[@BurchlikeBirch]

GSXR 750 gang

[@dennyurie4038]

You need too ride a h2 Kawasaki the king of kings speed everyone nos that Kawasaki h2r makes the fastest production bike just saying i will only ride a Kawasaki ZXR or a Honda CBR just saying tho my opinion feel me i have ZXR 1000 2012 and a 08 ZXR 600 i have killed yamaha's on the road all day with my 600 just saying man. Bro i have heard you say nothing good about Kawasaki like come on man H2 is the king bro not no $10,000 bike yamaha's one of the cheapest bikes bro flat out lol i would love too race you man for real.. And put it on KZbin too show the world 🌎 your a hater on the Kawasaki I understand they make the fastest bike's and not the cheapest bike's like a Yamaha lol..

[@diykindaguy6000]

Casper Urie I agree 100%. I want a h2r so bad. King of all bike, hands down.

[@nedialkosimonov3893]

H2R ia stupid bike for autoban 😂😂😂Try this sh*t on track or mauntain roads , stupid bike ever , made ony for noobs in USA that cant get corners 😂😂😂

[@eaglescout5816]

Speak up!

[@M16xDr0pSh0tz]

This guy clearly likes the R6 and is heavily biased. 0-10% throttle is best in the Yamaha? Yeah ok bud, the R6 is a 300 bike under 10k.