2009 Supersport Shootout (600cc)

[DarkSoul]

Another shootout from Motorcycle.com, good read if you got some spare time.

http://www.motorcycle.com/shoot-outs/2009-supersport-shootout-87967.html


Summary:

#4
Yamaha YZF-R6 Specs
At the bottom of our street-biased rankings is the Yamaha YZF-R6, but it’s nevertheless a grin-producing machine that remains impressive. If you want the sportiest looking 600 and are willing to tolerate racy ergonomics, we can’t blame you if your fires are fanned by the sexy R6. However, be prepared for relatively lethargic midrange power, a tall seat height and the most difficult to modulate clutch that make it our least favorite for general street riding. Yamaha’s revenge may come when we take this group to the track.


#3
Honda CBR600RR Specs
The Supersport class has always been the most hotly contested category in motorcycling, and this is again evident by how last year’s winner has slipped into third place. It retains its neutral handling that inspires confidence in all maneuvers, and its finely tuned suspension handles all situations with undeniable composure. And although the shape and design of the bodywork is familiar, the RR remains one of the most handsome bikes in the class, accentuated by its excellent fit and finish. But its engine is no longer the standout it once was, and its lack of a slipper clutch is an obvious omission. It runs a dead heat against the following bike.


#2
Suzuki GSX-R600 Specs
Although the GSX-R suffers a bit for its apparent non-newness - it feels not a whole lot changed from its 2006-07 iteration - it impresses as one of the easiest to simply jump on and ride it quickly and confidently. The Suzuki proves to be very compliant in all categories – suspension, throttle pick-up, ergos, composure, steering, clutch and gearbox, and generally friendly rider comfort. And now that it has a superior engine to the CBR, the Gixxer Sixxer gets its due by finishing runner-up to the bold new kid on the block. An MSRP increase to $10,399 is one of the few marks against it.



#1
Kawasaki ZX-6R Specs
We’ve now tried twice to divine the Ninja’s shortcomings (at the racetrack press intro and on the street back home), but the ZX has proved it’s as good as it gets in the 600cc category. Combining class-leading power with a highly responsive and trustworthy chassis are the major elements of the formula for middleweight class success. And although it might not be termed as pretty, it’s definitely jumped up in the cool factor category.