In 1998 I took delivery of a pristine blue R6 from J.S.Gedge (Hastings). Having been out if the saddle for a year or two, what appealed to me was the looks, small(ish) size and sheer power of this bike.

Having such a short wheelbase, the bike is so 'flickable' it's easy to quickly build up your confidence on it. Combined with a light clutch and responsive throttle, the bike is actually quite good for a newcomer to the 600cc class. In fact, for a non-injected bike, responsiveness is really good. Despite the short wheelbase, cornering is stable enough on UK roads, and this baby will easily keep up with, if not out-pace many bigger bikes on the open road. Having said that, uneven surfaces will really have it shaking it's head so beware! Acceleration is just phenominal, although around 12000rpm it does all get a bit frantic! (But that's why you buy this bike)! The brakes (R1 derived) are easily up to the job, with about the right feel.

Around town it's remarkably well mannered, although I often found it 'bogged down' under 4500rpm, meaning it ws easy to miss the gaps when in the wrong gear.

Wind protection is adequate - as good as you'd expect for a sports bike. My only complaints were the poor turning circle, notchy gearbox and somewhat limited range (about 120m on a tank full).

After two years and 6500 miles, I have parted company with the R6 in favour of the 'comfier' Fazer 1000 (and what a hoot that is!!). But if you're still fit (unlike me) and want an accomplished 600, the R6 will not disappoint.