Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat - 1997 Specifications and Reviews

The 1997 Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat is a lightweight sport bike designed for riders seeking accessible performance and agility. Its 599cc inline-four engine delivers 100 horsepower with responsive handling, making it ideal for both track days and spirited street riding. Known for its affordable entry into sportbike ownership, the Thundercat combines nimble maneuverability with reliable Japanese engineering.

1997
4 stars Average rating: 4 from 1 votes
.

General information

CategorySport
Year1997
ModelYamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat

Engine and Transmission Specifications

Transmission typefinal driveChain
Gearbox6-speed
Cooling systemLiquid
StarterElectric
Valves per cylinder4
Torque67.00
Power100.00
Stroke4
Engine typeIn-line four
Capacity:599.00 ccm (36.55 cubic inches)
 
 

Physical measures and capacities

Seat height810 mm (31.9 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Dry weight187.0 kg (412.3 pounds)

Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat dimensions and frame

Rear brakesSingle disc
Front brakesDual disc
 
 

Speed and acceleration

Power/weight ratio0.5348 HP/kg
Top speed255.0 km/h (158.4 mph)

Other specs

MaintenanceFind parts, fluids, filters, maintenance tools and service items on eBay

Performance Profile & Rider Fit

100 hp
Peak Power
3.4s
0-60 mph
158.4 mph
Top Speed

Best For

Track78%
City55%
Cornering85%
Daily Riding60%
Touring50%
Passenger45%

Rider Profile

Best ForBest suited to intermediate or experienced riders who can manage a sporty inline-four with real power and a forward-biased riding position.
PurposeDesigned as a sport-touring machine that leans toward spirited road riding and occasional track days rather than pure racing or long-distance cruising.
Rider FitA moderate seat height and a 187 kg dry weight make it manageable for average-height riders, though the sporty stance still demands decent wrist and core strength on longer rides.
CharacterA sharp, willing engine paired with agile handling gives it the personality of a fast, fun all-rounder that rewards confident throttle use.
Not Ideal ForNot a good fit for complete beginners, off-road enthusiasts, or riders seeking a relaxed, upright touring position for two-up long-distance comfort.

Character map is an editorial estimate based on this bike's specifications, not a lab-tested measurement.

Rider Fit Visualizer

1997 Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat Rider Ergonomics Assessment

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

Feet:

At 810mm, a rider of 175cm with a 79cm (estimated) inseam will reach the ground with both feet flat on the 1997 Yamaha YZF 600 S Thundercat, with a cramped knee angle of around 70 degrees and a forward-leaning riding position.

Data quality: estimated (wheelbase estimated from this category's typical bike, not this model's own spec). 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.

Find bikes that fit your height →

Rider Reviews

Add a Comment


Please Login or Register if you would like to leave a comment.