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.

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General information

CategorySport
Year2002
ModelYamaha YZF 600 R Thundercat

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Cooling systemLiquid
StarterElectric
Bore x stroke62.0 x 49.6 mm (2.4 x 2.0 inches)
Compression12.0:1
Torque65.00
Power100.10
Stroke4
Engine typeIn-line four
Capacity:599.00 ccm (36.55 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Wheelbase1,415 mm (55.7 inches)
Ground clearance135 mm (5.3 inches)
Overall width725 mm (28.5 inches)
Overall length2,145 mm (84.4 inches)
Overall height1,190 mm (46.9 inches)
Seat height805 mm (31.7 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight187.0 kg (412.3 pounds)

Yamaha YZF 600 R Thundercat dimensions and frame

Rear brakes diameter245 mm (9.6 inches)
Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakes diameter298 mm (11.7 inches)
Front brakesDual disc
Rear tyre dimensions160/60-ZR17
Front tyre dimensions120/70-ZR17
Rear suspension travel120 mm (4.7 inches)
Front suspension travel120 mm (4.7 inches)
 
 

Speed and acceleration

Power/weight ratio0.5353 HP/kg

Other specs

MaintenanceFind 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 ForBest 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.
PurposeDesigned 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 FitThe 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.
CharacterA 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 ForNot 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 Fit Visualizer

2002 Yamaha YZF 600 R Thundercat Rider Ergonomics Assessment

Calculated in your browser only - your height/inseam are never sent to our servers.

Feet:

At 805mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 2002 Yamaha YZF 600 R Thundercat, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: measured. Assumes about 30mm of suspension sag once seated (a typical street-bike rule of thumb - stiffer or softer suspension will vary). This is an approximation from category-typical geometry and generic body proportions, not a measurement of this specific bike or you - sit on it before you buy.

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