Yamaha XJ6 2016 — Specifications

After a few years of faithful service, the spectre of evolution has touched the XJ6. Does it change profoundly? Will it cruelly date the previous version? Should we expect a new generation? Relax the electrocardiogram: the roadster evolves only in terms of design; and even then, by small touches. In 2013, some elements were redesigned and others modernized. The XJ6 gains new radiator cowls, a more aerodynamic headlight fairing, translucent white turn signals, LED illumination for the dashboard, and a chain tension indicator. In terms of comfort, the seat is covered with a non-slip cover, and the passenger has more ergonomic handles. So, no upheaval for this machine offering access to larger displacement engines. It simply refines what is visible. One of the main threats to the XJ6 comes from its own family: the MT-07, with its attractive price and more playful character.

Genesis:

The philosophy of the mid-displacement XJ remains as some have known it while we sought the magic pink paper: to offer an accessible motorcycle, at a reasonable cost, good for everything, with the right dosage of power. The XJ6 respects these codes. But there’s no question of looking sad, because the competition is full of pep. Yam has therefore insisted a bit on the design of the fairing, with a headlight from the FZ1 surmounted by a ruby-shaped marker light, sharpened radiator cowls, a small engine guard, and a few pieces of plastic to reinforce the appearance. With its slim rear end and free of the exhaust pipe (it is hidden under the engine), the XJ6 really has presence. Its profile stands out from its major competitors: it seems incisive and muscular, when a Honda CBF wants to be wise and reassuring, while the Kawasaki ER-6 wants to be fun, playful, and slender. The Bandit, for its part, seems more impulsive.

Technically, there’s no need to burden it with a Superbike chassis, unnecessary (and expensive) for its clientele. The XJ6 is equipped with a diamond-type frame with steel tubes. Simple and functional, it accommodates an engine borrowing the 4-cylinder architecture of the FZ6, itself derived from the 2003 R6. Cylinder head, crankcase, camshafts, intake/exhaust systems, clutch, and selection have been revised to adapt to the XJ6. Largely reworked, it strives to offer flexibility and availability, to best suit a largely versatile use. This powerhouse is therefore in the same league as machines in the same segment. Engine comparisons will be tight against other Japanese models – the evolution, however, is much more marked if we refer to the data of the old XJ: it was equipped with an air-cooled 4-cylinder with 2 valves per cylinder of 61 hp. Its descendant is equipped with a liquid-cooled engine, twice as many valves, and 78 hp at 10,000 rpm.

With the wave of streetfighters arriving in recent years, it’s strange to find a motorcycle with wise values, much better suited to our "safe" environment. The chassis data announce a pleasant motorcycle, not particularly playful but not tricky either. A wheelbase of 1,440 mm, a rake of 26°, a conventional 41 mm fork, double-piston brake calipers, and ABS as standard – Nothing sporty but fun and functional under a seductive dress. Standardization dictates that the XJ6 borrows the dashboard from the FZ series. By choosing classic elements, such as the simple-design swingarm, an incandescent rear light, a largely sufficient braking system without being an old R1 front end, a steel frame, and a well-proven engine, this Yamaha can afford to display a reasonable price. Like the old XJ6, but in a more modern way. And for those seeking a bit of protection or something to do some road riding, remember that the XJ6 was doubled by the Diversion version, equipped with a well-dimensioned fairing head.

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