Yamaha YZF 600 R Thundercat - 2002 Specifications and Reviews
The 2002 Yamaha YZF 600 R Thundercat is a lightweight middleweight sportbike designed for riders seeking an accessible entry into sport riding. Powered by a 599cc inline-four engine producing 100 horsepower, it delivers sharp handling and agile performance. Known for its excellent balance of power, manageability, and affordability, the Thundercat remains a popular choice for intermediate riders and everyday sport bike enthusiasts.
General information | |
| Category | Sport |
| Year | 2002 |
| Model | Yamaha YZF 600 R Thundercat |
| | |
Engine and Transmission Specifications | |
| Cooling system | Liquid |
| Starter | Electric |
| Bore x stroke | 62.0 x 49.6 mm (2.4 x 2.0 inches) |
| Compression | 12.0:1 |
| Torque | 65.00 |
| Power | 100.10 |
| Stroke | 4 |
| Engine type | In-line four |
| Capacity: | 599.00 ccm (36.55 cubic inches) |
Physical measures and capacities | |
| Wheelbase | 1,415 mm (55.7 inches) |
| Ground clearance | 135 mm (5.3 inches) |
| Overall width | 725 mm (28.5 inches) |
| Overall length | 2,145 mm (84.4 inches) |
| Overall height | 1,190 mm (46.9 inches) |
| Seat height | 805 mm (31.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting. |
| Dry weight | 187.0 kg (412.3 pounds) |
Yamaha YZF 600 R Thundercat dimensions and frame | |
| Rear brakes diameter | 245 mm (9.6 inches) |
| Rear brakes | Single disc |
| Front brakes diameter | 298 mm (11.7 inches) |
| Front brakes | Dual disc |
| Rear tyre dimensions | 160/60-ZR17 |
| Front tyre dimensions | 120/70-ZR17 |
| Rear suspension travel | 120 mm (4.7 inches) |
| Front suspension travel | 120 mm (4.7 inches) |
| | |
Speed and acceleration | |
| Power/weight ratio | 0.5353 HP/kg |
Other specs | |
| Maintenance | Find parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay |
Performance Profile & Rider Fit
100.1 hp
Peak Power
3.4s
0-60 mph
Best For
Track72%
City55%
Cornering80%
Daily Riding60%
Touring58%
Passenger50%
Rider Profile
| Best For | Best suited to riders with at least some prior experience on mid-to-large sportbikes who are comfortable with a forward-leaning riding position and strong midrange power delivery. |
| Purpose | Designed as a sport-touring-leaning supersport, blending brisk in-line four performance with a slightly more relaxed chassis setup than a full-blown race replica. |
| Rider Fit | The moderate 805mm seat height and 187kg dry weight make it manageable for average-height riders, though the sporty ergonomics still put some load on wrists and shoulders on longer rides. |
| Character | A characterful late-90s/early-2000s inline-four sport machine that rewards revs with a smooth, linear power delivery and confident, stable cornering manners. |
| Not Ideal For | Not ideal for complete beginners seeking an upright, low-effort commuter, nor for riders wanting genuine long-distance touring comfort or any off-road capability. |
Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.
Rider Reviews
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