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The 600 cc sport bikes are among the most desirable and demanding motorcycle categories. They aren’t as heavy and challenging as the heavyweight 1,000 cc sports bike with loads of power. Nevertheless, they aren’t as easy as a 300 cc beginner sports bike.
For this reason, the 600 cc sport bikes cover a vast range of riders with good skills. You will not find these sport bikes less engaging and low-powered even if you are a trained sport bike rider.
Being a middleweight bike, the 600 cc sport bike provides the best combination of power, agility, and athleticism. They have adequate sportiness, aggressiveness, responsiveness, and power to never make you feel bored.
Both sports and supersports bikes are in the 600 cc category. Whether road riding or track racing, these bikes are on par with their 1,000 cc heavyweight counterparts. Continue reading this article to learn about the best 600 cc-ish sport bikes of 2024.
1. Difference Between Sports and Supersports Bikes
They may look similar as both have sporty, aggressive, and aerodynamically-designed bikes.
1.1 Sports Bikes
Sports bikes are more focused on everyday riding than super sports bikes.
They are better road bikes than super sports bikes.
They are not as comfortable as other road bikes like cruisers, standard bikes, or roadsters.
But they are more comfortable than super sports bikes.
They are available in multiple engine displacement sizes, including:
Lightweight: 300 cc sports bikes.
Middleweight: 600 cc sports bikes.
Heavyweight: 1,000 cc sports bikes.
1.2 Super Sport Bikes
Supersport bikes are more aggressive, sportier, and more powerful bikes than sports bikes.
They are built for high-speed performance.
More suited for track racing.
They are more powerful and deliver great top-end power.
They have more quick acceleration.
The throttle response is also very abrupt compared to sports bikes.
Supersports bikes usually feature 600 cc race-ready engines.
They are also lighter than the sports bikes.
The purpose is to keep the weight on the lower side by removing any extra parts.
They have a higher power-to-weight ratio.
2. Seven Best 600cc-ish Sport Bikes of 2024
2.1 2025 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R falls under the supersport bike category, due to which it is best for both road and race track use. Kawasaki also has the Ninja 650 in its sports bike lineup. Nonetheless, the Ninja ZX-6R is more focused on top-end performance.
What makes the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R different is its superior aerodynamic design and sportiness. According to most reviews, the Ninja ZX-6R has been ranked as one of the best sports bikes in the 600 cc category.
It was surprising to see the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R discontinued in 2022. The company had to bring it back in 2024 with several upgrades. The Ninja ZX-6R finally meets the Euro 5 emission standards.
Though the displacement size is the same, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R has received updated air intake, cam profiles, and exhaust headers. The 636 cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder engine delivers 127 hp of horsepower at 13,000 rpm and a torque of 70.64 Nm at 10,800 rpm.
Also Read: Motorcycle Horsepower Vs Torque Explained!
Several speed tests have been performed so far. The Ninja ZX-6R is recorded to attain a top speed of around 165 mph. Though it is a 600 cc sports bike, it carries an inline-four engine, making it more versatile.
The superior engine technology makes the Ninja ZX-6R more capable in the 600 cc class. Compared to the rest of the 600 cc sports bikes, it produces exceptional low-end and mid-range power and torque. Considering its versatile capabilities, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R is an ideal sports bike for both road and tracks.
By looking at its power figures, you must go for the ABS variant, which will cost you $12,300. However, you can also buy a used Ninja ZX-6R if you are low on a budget but still want to ride something very powerful and aggressive.
The 2025 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R has several rider aids to make your sports riding experience safe and fun. It features optional ABS, traction control, power modes, quick shifter, assist & slipper clutch, and whatnot.
The Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R features a lightweight aluminum frame and preload adjustable Showa Separate Function Big Piston (SFF-BP) front forks. The Bottom-link Uni-Trak® rear mono-shock is fully adjustable.
These top-class features make the Ninja ZX-6R an excellent bike for riding on twisty roads. You will love to do canyon carving and lean this bike around corners.
2025 Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R | |
---|---|
Base MSRP |
Non-ABS: $11,399 ABS: $12,399 |
Motorcycle Type |
Supersport Bike |
Engine |
636 cc Liquid-Cooled Inline Four-Cylinder Engine |
Peak Horsepower |
127 hp at 13,000 rpm |
Peak Torque |
70.64 Nm / 52.1 lb-ft at 10,800 rpm |
Top Speed |
Approximately 165 mph |
Fuel System |
DFI® with 38 mm Keihin Throttle Bodies (4) and Oval Sub-Throttles |
Transmission |
Six-Speed, Return Shift |
Final Drive |
Sealed Chain |
ABS |
Optional |
Wet Weight |
ABS: 436.6 lbs Non-ABS: 432.2 lbs |
Seat Height |
32.7 in |
Fuel Tank Capacity |
4.5 gal |
Tech Features |
Optional ABS Kawasaki Intelligent Anti-Lock Braking System Kawasaki Traction Control Kawasaki Quick Shifter Assist & Slipper Clutch Dual Throttle Valves Power Modes Economical Riding Indicator Smartphone Connectivity TFT Color Display All-LED Lighting Pirelli Diablo™ Rosso IV tires |
2.2 2025 Suzuki GSX-R600 (Gixxer 600)
The Suzuki GSX-R600 is another top-of-the-line supersport bike, famously known as the Gixxer. It is one of the legendary sports bikes, popular among sports bike enthusiasts, track racers, and stunt performers. It is among those sports bikes that have made a massive name in the category.
Despite being a supersport bike, the Gixxer 600 offers a perfect blend of excellent power and comfort. Also, being made by Suzuki, the reliability is top-notch.
What makes it more special is the fact that you can find the old model years at a very cheap price. The insurance rates are also pretty lower compared to most 600 cc sports bikes.
Like the Kawasaki ZX-6R, the Suzuki GSX-R600 is also a perfect bike for both road and track performance.
The Gixxer 600 has a proven track record of being at the top of the 600 cc Supersports class. It is not a premium sports bike with high-end features. Nevertheless, the Gixxer 600 still uses advanced engineering for superior performance.
The 2025 GSX-R600 uses a 599 cc liquid-cooled, inline-four engine, delivering 102.9 hp of horsepower at 13,520 rpm and a torque of 59.65 Nm at 11,580 rpm. The Gixxer 600 is well-known for its top-end power delivery, thanks to its inline-four engine.
The strong high-rpm power output makes the Gixxer 600 a superior road and track racing bike.
The GSX-R600 also features a lightweight twin-spar aluminum frame, offering superior agility, nimble handling, and precise control. The Showa Big Piston Forks are among the top features of the Gixxer 600.
The 2025 Suzuki GSX-R600 doesn’t even have ABS, traction control, or a quick shifter. There are only two ride modes, including Road and Track. However, despite being the simple, most super sports bike, the Gixxer 600 is still a very relevant motorbike in today’s world.
2025 Suzuki GSXR600 (Gixxer 600) | |
---|---|
Base MSRP |
$11,999 |
Motorcycle Type |
Supersports Bike |
Engine |
599 cc Liquid-Cooled, Inline Four-Cylinder Engine |
Peak Horsepower |
102.9 hp at 13,520 rpm |
Peak Torque |
59.65 Nm / 44 lb-ft at 11,580 rpm |
Top Speed |
155 mph |
Fuel System |
Fuel Injection with SDTV |
Transmission |
Six-Speed Constant Mesh |
Final Drive |
Chain, RK525SMOZ8, 114 links |
ABS |
No |
Wet Weight |
187 kg / 412 lbs |
Seat Height |
810 mm / 31.9 in |
Fuel Tank Capacity |
4.5 gal |
Standard Features |
Ride-By-Wire Throttle Suzuki Drive Mode Selector Two Ride Modes: Road Track Three-Way Adjustable Footpegs Adjustable Shift Lever |
2.3 2024 Aprilia RS 660
The Aprilia RS 660 is also a very strong contender in the 600 cc sports bike class. It is a big achievement for the RS 660 to stand tall in the list alongside the class-leading brands. We all know that Aprilia is not a bigger motorcycle brand than others on the list. It also has a limited lineup.
Fortunately, Aprilia has made a big name in the sports bike category, particularly in the 600 cc class. The Aprilia RS 660 is the lightest sports bike on this list, with a wet weight of only 403 lbs. On top of that, it also features a cutting-edge technology package, also known as APRC (Aprilia Performance Ride Control).
The package includes ABS, cornering ABS, engine mapping, engine braking, traction control, wheelie control, and more. The remarkable 659 cc parallel-twin engine produces 100 hp of horsepower at 10,500 rpm and a torque of 67 Nm at 8,500 rpm. Thanks to its low weight, the Aprilia RS660 has an impressive power-to-weight ratio.
The Aprilia RS 660 shows superb handling performance thanks to its lightweight dual-beam aluminum frame. On top of that, its relatively comfortable ergonomics allow for both track and road use. You can use this bike for everyday riding.
The Aprilia RS660 has a design similar to that of its powerful and expensive sibling, called the Aprilia RSV4. The beautiful design and superior performance make this sports bike a perfect choice for both experienced and beginner riders.
The 2025 Aprilia RS660 is punchier and more flickable than other supersports bikes on this list. Also, it produces one of the best sounds in its class.
2024 Aprilia RS 660 | |
---|---|
Base MSRP |
$11,549 |
Engine |
659 cc Liquid-Cooled, Parallel Twin-Cylinder Engine |
Peak Horsepower |
100 hp (73.5 kW) at 10,500 rpm |
Peak Torque |
67.0 Nm (6.83 kg) at 8,500 rpm |
Top Speed |
|
Fuel System |
Electronic Fuel Injection with 48 mm Throttle Bodies and Ride-By-Wire System |
Transmission |
Six Gears with Aprilia Quick Shift (AQS) Up and Down |
Final Drive |
Chain Drive with Drive Ratio: 17/43 |
Wet Weight |
403 lbs |
Seat Height |
32.3 in |
Fuel Tank Capacity |
4 gals |
Standard Features |
ABS Multimap ABS Cornering Aprilia Cruise Control (ACC) Aprilia Engine Maps (AEM) Aprilia Engine Braking (AEB) Aprilia Wheelie Control (AWC) Aprilia Traction Control (ATC) Six-Axis Intertial Platform Multiplate Wet Clutch with Mechanical Slip System 5 Ride Modes: 2 Predefined Modes 3 Customizable Modes |
2.4 2024 Honda CBR600RR
The Honda CB600RR is another notable sports bike in the 600 cc class. It is one of the masterpieces with a glorious past and heritage. However, it may not be the most appealing in the modern-day lineups. The reason why the CBR600RR doesn’t attract most new riders is the fact that it has been unchanged for more than a decade.
Nonetheless, the CBR600R still manages to shine in the 600 cc category with its remarkable road performance. This bike is durable and is among the best sports bikes for canyon carving.
The 2024 CBR600R features a 599 cc liquid-cooled, inline-four engine, delivering a horsepower of 121 hp at 14,000 rpm and a torque of 64 Nm at 11,500 rpm. It features a calibrated throttle response, making the bike feel adequately powerful.
However, the engine response is neither too abrupt nor does it feel sluggish. The Honda CBR600RR is well-known for its low and mid-range power delivery. If you want to have extreme fun, you will be required to rev this bike at higher rpms.
The 2024 Honda CBR600RR also features good-quality adjustable front and rear suspensions, ensuring superb handling and stability. The 2024 CBR600RR doesn’t have many tech features. The ABS is also an optional feature. However, you will need to spend $12,199 for the non-ABS model.
2024 Honda CBR600RR | |
---|---|
Base MSRP |
Non-ABS: $12,199 ABS: $13,199 |
Engine |
599 cc Liquid-Cooled Inline Four-Cylinder Engine |
Peak Horsepower |
121 hp at 14,000 rpm |
Peak Torque |
64 Nm / 47.2 lb-ft at 11,500 rpm |
Top Speed |
160 mph |
Fuel System |
Dual Stage Fuel Injection (DSFI) with 40 mm Throttle Bodies, Denso 12-Hole Injectors |
Transmission |
Close-Ratio Six-Speed |
Final Drive |
#525 O-Ring Chain; 16T/42T |
ABS |
Optional |
Wet Weight |
434 lbs |
Seat Height |
32.4 in |
Fuel Tank Capacity |
4.8 gals |
Standard Features |
Optional ABS Electronically-Combined Anti-Lock Braking System (C-ABS) Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) |
2.5 2024 Triumph Daytona 660
If you are looking for something different than a Japanese supersports bike, the Triumph Daytona 660 is a choice for many riders. It is a more aggressive bike with a sleeker look.
Moreover, if you are bored with how these Japanese sports bikes look, you will find the Daytona 660 very attractive. This bike has a perfect fit and finish and looks more premium.
Despite being a 660 cc super sports bike, the Daytona 660 features an inline three-cylinder engine. This engine design makes it different from the rest of the sports and super sports bikes on the list.
The 660 cc engine is capable of producing a horsepower of 95 hp at 11,250 rpm and a torque of 69 Nm at 8,250 rpm. The power specs may not attract you if you are an experienced track racer.
However, what makes the Daytona 660 special is its improved engine cooling technology, refined crankshaft design, and wider throttle bodies. These refined components give the Triumph Daytona 660 a responsive throttle and high-revving performance.
It has a solid build quality, so you don’t need to worry about reliability. The Daytona 660 is also a great option for both road and track riding.
2024 Triumph Daytona 660 | |
---|---|
Base MSRP |
$9,195 |
Engine |
660 cc Liquid-Cooled, Inline Three-Cylinder Engine |
Peak Horsepower |
95 hp (69.8 kW) at 11,250 rpm |
Peak Torque |
50.88 lb-ft (69 Nm) at 8,250 rpm |
Top Speed |
140 mph |
Fuel System |
Multipoint Sequential Electronic Fuel Injection with Electronic Throttle Control |
Transmission |
Six-Speed |
Final Drive |
X-Ring Chain |
Wet Weight |
443 lbs |
Seat Height |
31.88 in / 810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity |
3.7 gals |
Standard Features |
ABS Ride-By-Wire Throttle Three Ride Modes: Road Rain Sport Traction Control Slipper & Assist Clutch TFT Color Display Michelin Power 6 Tires |
2.6 2025 Kawasaki Ninja 650
The Kawasaki Ninja 650 is very different from the Ninja ZX-6R. It is not a super sports bike with a highly aggressive riding stance. The Ninja 650 is a highly practical sports bike for city traveling.
The ergonomics are very comfortable, considering it is a sports bike. Unlike most super sports bikes, the Ninja 650 doesn’t feature a clip-on bar. Instead, the handlebars are slightly taller, offering an upright stance. The seat height is also low, making daily commuting very easy and comfortable.
The Kawasaki Ninja 650 is not designed for track racing. The power figures are also not incredible when compared to a supersport bike. The 649 cc parallel-twin engine delivers 67 hp of horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 65.76 Nm at 6,700 rpm.
The Ninja 650 still feels decently quick on paved roads. You can also take this bike on highways if you want to see how fast it can go. It is also a better sports bike for riding in traffic. You can ride it for hours without getting uncomfortable.
The Kawasaki Ninja 650 also offers a good fuel economy, making it suitable for everyday riding. The suspension technology may not be the premium. It still does the job well.
Handling and cornering on this bike are also amazing. You can do the quick sprints as well on the backroads. Above all, it is the most affordable sports bike on this list, having a 649 cc engine. You can buy the ABS variant for only $8,899.
2025 Kawasaki Ninja 650 | |
---|---|
Base MSRP |
Non-ABS: $8,299 ABS: $8,899 |
Motorcycle Type |
Sport Bike |
Engine |
649 cc Liquid-Cooled, Parallel Twin-Cylinder Engine |
Peak Horsepower |
67 hp at 8,000 rpm |
Peak Torque |
65.76 Nm / 48.5 lb-ft at 6,700 rpm |
Top Speed |
132 mph |
Fuel System |
Digital Fuel Injection® (DFI) with Dual 36 mm Keihin Throttle Bodies |
Transmission |
Six-Speed |
Final Drive |
Sealed Chain Drive |
ABS |
Optional |
Wet Weight |
ABS: 423.4 lbs Non-ABS: 421.2 lbs |
Seat Height |
31.1 in |
Fuel Tank Capacity |
4 gals |
Standard Features |
ABS (Optional) Assist & Slipper Clutch Kawasaki Traction Control Dual Throttle Valves Horizontal Back-Link Rear Suspension Economical Riding Indicator Twin LED Headlights Dunlop Sportmax RoadSport Tires Flush-Fit Windshield |
2.7 2025 Yamaha YZF-R7
In the true sense, the 2025 Yamaha YZF-R7 is not a super sports bike. To all those who think it is a better, more powerful, and more aggressive version of the Yamaha YZF-R6, it is not.
The reason for including the YZF-R7 on the list is its affordable price. The 2025 Yamaha YZF-R7 is available at a base price of only $9,199. However, if you have ridden the YZF-R6, the YZF-R7 is not even close. It is merely a fairing version of the Yamaha MT-07.
The Yamaha YZF-R6 was produced from 1999 to 2000 and is still produced in limited numbers for track racing. The Yamaha R6 was among the most dominant supersports bikes in the 600 cc racing category.
The YZF-R7 is a more practical bike for new riders to use every day. The 689 cc parallel-twin engine only makes 64.8 hp of horsepower at 8,490 rpm and a torque of 60.33 Nm at 6,520 rpm.
The Yamaha R7 is also a slim sports bike and is low in weight, which makes it easier to use. It is good for those new sports bike riders who want a more aggressive ride. The established CP2 engine technology is also very reliable. The bike is best suited for road riding.
2025 Yamaha YZF-R7 | |
---|---|
Base MSRP |
$9,199 |
Engine |
689 cc Liquid-Cooled, Inline Twin-Cylinder CP2 Engine |
Peak Horsepower |
64.8 hp at 8,490 rpm |
Peak Torque |
60.33 Nm / 44.5 lb-ft at 6,520 rpm |
Top Speed |
139 mph |
Fuel Economy |
58 mpg |
Fuel System |
Fuel Injection System |
Transmission |
Six-Speed |
Final Drive |
Chain Drive |
Wet Weight |
414 lbs |
Seat Height |
32.9 in |
Fuel Tank Capacity |
3.4 gal |
Standard Features |
ABS Assist & Slipper Clutch LCD Instrument Display Adaptive LED Lighting |
3. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
3.1 Which Is the Fastest 600cc Sportbike?
In the 600 cc supersport bike category, the retired Yamaha YZF-R6 is considered to be the fastest. It has a top speed record of 174 mph.
The inline-four-powered YZF-R6 is a legendary supersports bike. It continued in production from 1999 to 2020. Later on, the Yamaha R6 is only produced for track racing purposes.
3.2 What Is the Best Sport Bike for 2024?
There are many supersports bikes that made it to the list of best and most powerful sports bikes for 2024. These include:
Aprilia RSV4
BMW S 1000 RR
Ducati Panigale V4
Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade
Yamaha R1
MV Agusta F3
Energica Ego+
Norton V4 SV
3.3 Is 1000cc Faster Than 600cc?
You cannot exactly tell which bike is faster than the other because there are a lot of deciding factors. However, considering a straight-line drag race, a 1000 cc supersports bike is most likely to win. However, when it comes to track racing that contains sharp twists and turns, a 600 cc supersports bike is most likely to win.
4. Takeaway
If you are looking for a 600 cc motorbike in the 600 cc category, you must first know the difference between sports and super sports bikes. Secondly, you must also know your riding style and purpose.
Both sports and supersports bikes may look slightly similar, but there are a lot of differences. Supersports bikes are super aggressive, more powerful, and are primarily designed for track racing.
If you are a fan of such an aggressive riding style and want to conquer racing tracks, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R, Gixxer 600, and Aprilia RS660 are ideal track racing bikes.
If you want a perfect blend of both track racing performance and adequate comfort for city traveling, the Ninja 650 and Honda CBR600RR are more road-biased.
The 600 cc sports bikes are neither too powerful nor sluggish. They make a perfect platform for both exert and beginners alike. However, if you are a complete newbie, the 600 cc sports bike platform can be too much for you to handle.
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