Yamaha R1 2009 vs. Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2006

Yamaha R1 2009

Yamaha R1 2009

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2006

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2006

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Overview - Yamaha R1 2009 vs Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2006

The Yamaha R1 model year 2009 and the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R model year 2006 are both high-performance supersport motorcycles. While they share similarities in terms of engine configuration and number of cylinders, there are several notable differences between the two models.

In terms of engine power, the Yamaha R1 2009 takes the lead with 182 horsepower, compared to the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2006's 130 horsepower. This significant difference in power output gives the Yamaha R1 an advantage in terms of acceleration and top speed.

The engine displacement of the Yamaha R1 is also larger at 998cc, compared to the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R's 636cc. This larger displacement allows the Yamaha R1 to generate more torque, resulting in better low-end and mid-range performance.

Yamaha R1 2009

Yamaha R1 2009

When it comes to dimensions and weights, the Yamaha R1 has a slightly longer wheelbase at 1415mm, compared to the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R's 1390mm. This longer wheelbase contributes to the Yamaha R1's stability at high speeds, making it more suitable for straight-line performance.

In terms of seat height, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R has a slightly lower seat height at 825mm, compared to the Yamaha R1's 835mm. This lower seat height may be more comfortable for riders with shorter inseams.

In terms of weight, the Yamaha R1 is heavier at 206kg (dry weight), compared to the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R's 164kg (dry weight). This weight difference can affect the handling characteristics of the motorcycles, with the lighter Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R potentially being more agile and nimble.

Both motorcycles have similar fuel tank capacities, with the Yamaha R1 having an 18-liter capacity and the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R having a 17-liter capacity. This allows for decent fuel range on both models, although the Yamaha R1 may have a slight advantage in terms of longer distances between refueling.

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2006

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2006

In terms of strengths, the Yamaha R1 2009 is praised for its sophisticated sound, good power delivery, easy handling, hydraulic spring preload, and high level of workmanship. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2006 is commended for its anti-hopping clutch, strong overall package, optimal chassis, stability, and compatibility with all types of tires.

In terms of weaknesses, the Yamaha R1 2009 is criticized for its suboptimal seating position and somewhat difficult cornering over long distances. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2006 is noted for its unsteady handling on complex tracks with bumps and its very sporty overall setup, which may be an advantage on the racetrack but a disadvantage on the road.

Overall, the Yamaha R1 2009 and the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2006 are both impressive supersport motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Yamaha R1 offers more power and a larger displacement, making it suitable for riders seeking high-performance capabilities. On the other hand, the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R offers a lighter weight and potentially more agile handling, making it a good choice for riders who prioritize maneuverability.

Technical Specifications Yamaha R1 2009 compared to Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2006

Yamaha R1 2009
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2006

Engine and Drive Train

Engine powerEngine power182 HPEngine power130 HP
TransmissionTransmissionChainTransmissionChain
CylindersCylinders4Cylinders4
StrokesStrokes4-StrokeStrokes4-Stroke
CoolingCoolingliquidCoolingliquid
DisplacementDisplacement998 ccmDisplacement636 ccm

Dimensions and Weights

WheelbaseWheelbase1,415 mmWheelbase1,390 mm
Seat HeightSeat Height835 mmSeat Height825 mm
Dry WeightDry Weight206 kgDry Weight164 kg
Fuel Tank CapacityFuel Tank Capacity18 lFuel Tank Capacity17 l
License compliancyLicense compliancyALicense compliancyA

Pros and Cons in comparison

Pros and Cons in comparison

Yamaha R1 2009

Yamaha R1 2009

Of course, the new R1 engine also passed all the tough Yamaha stress tests and comes with the same guarantees as other Yamaha motorbikes. Because until now, it was precisely the issues of durability and reliability that prevented series production of such an engine.

Sophisticated sound

good feeling for power delivery

easy handling

hydraulic spring preload

high level of workmanship.

Suboptimal seating position

somewhat difficult cornering over long distances.

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2006

Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2006

The Kawa leaves nothing to be desired. Engine, chassis and brakes will satisfy you 100%. This machine will make the intensive lap times drop, even the rider will not be able to prevent that.

Anti-hopping clutch

strong overall package

optimal chassis

stability

works with all tyres

almost complete.

Unsteady handling on complex tracks with bumps

very sporty overall set-up => advantage for racetrack, disadvantage for road

Price Comparison Avarage Market Price Yamaha R1 vs Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

There are a few key differences between a Yamaha R1 2009 and a Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R 2006. It takes less time to sell a Yamaha R1 with 45 days compared to 50 days for a Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R. Since model year 2005 1000PS.de editors have written 80 reviews for the Yamaha R1 and 37 reviews for the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R since model year 2005. The first review for the Yamaha R1 was published on 4/28/2003 and now has more than 3,900 views. This compares to more than 5,800 views for the first review on Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R published on 9/2/2002.

Price Yamaha R1

Model year
Current average market prices

Price Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R

Model year
Current average market prices

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