14 August. Friday 2026
Gilera RC600 - 1989 Specifications and Reviews
The 1989 Gilera RC600 is a capable enduro machine designed for adventure-minded riders seeking off-road exploration. Its liquid-cooled single-cylinder engine delivers 48 horsepower with responsive handling courtesy of quality Marzocchi forks and Boge rear suspension. Known for reliable performance and genuine trail capability, it remains a respected middleweight enduro bike of its era.
1989
General information | |
| Category | Enduro / offroad |
| Year | 1989 |
| Model | Gilera RC600 |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Clutch | wet multi plate |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Ignition | electronic |
| Fuel system | Carburettor. TEIKEI |
| Bore x stroke | 98.0 x 74.0 mm (3.9 x 2.9 inches) |
| Top speed | 144.8 km/h (90.0 mph) |
| Power | 48.00 |
| Engine type | Single cylinder, four-stroke |
| Capacity: | 600.00 ccm (36.61 cubic inches) |
Brakes, suspension, Frame and wheels | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 220 mm (8.7 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc. floating disc with hydraulic single piston |
| Front brakes diameter | 260 mm (10.2 inches) |
| Front brakes | Single disc. front floating disc with hydraulic double piston |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 130/80-17 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 90/90-21 |
| Rear suspension | Boge monodamper power drive |
| Front suspension | Marzocchi hydraulic forks |
| Frame type | TUBULAR STEEL SINGLE CRADLE |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Reserve fuel capacity | 2.00 litres (0.53 gallons) |
| Fuel capacity | 12.00 litres (3.17 gallons) |
| Wheelbase | 1,510 mm (59.4 inches) |
| Overall width | 850 mm (33.5 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,230 mm (87.8 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,230 mm (48.4 inches) |
| Seat height | 890 mm (35.0 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.3404 HP/kg |
| Dry weight | 141.0 kg (310.9 pounds) |
| | |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
| Modifications compared to previous model | This was the first model made by Gilera for entry into the Paris Dakar (they won this class two years running) the RC600R followed which then became (after modifications) the Nord West |
| Color options | Red |
| Starter | Electric & kick |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
48 hp
Peak Power
6.5s
0-60 mph
90 mph
Top Speed
Best For
Track20%
City40%
Cornering55%
Daily Riding35%
Touring30%
Passenger20%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Best suited to intermediate or experienced riders comfortable with a tall, lightweight single-cylinder enduro that demands active body input. |
| Purpose | Built as a Paris-Dakar-derived off-road machine, it excels at rough terrain, trail riding, and technical enduro work rather than outright speed or long highway stints. |
| Rider Fit | The 890mm seat height and lean, minimal-bulk chassis suit taller or average-height riders confident standing on the pegs and shifting weight over rough ground. |
| Character | A raw, purposeful desert-racer with rally pedigree, rewarding riders who enjoy mechanical simplicity and off-road capability over refinement. |
| Not Ideal For | Not a good fit for riders wanting sustained high-speed cruising, plush two-up comfort, or a low, easy-to-manage city commuter. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
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