Is a 600cc a good starter bike? It’s a question that many aspiring motorcycle riders ask, and the answer isn’t always straightforward. While 600cc motorcycles offer a balance of power and manageability, they can be a bit much for complete beginners. The key is to understand the nuances of these machines and assess your own skill level and riding goals.
600cc motorcycles, known for their versatility, span various categories like sportbikes, naked bikes, and sport-touring models. Each type has its own character and riding experience, catering to different preferences. The key is to find the right fit for your riding style and comfort level.
Understanding 600cc Motorcycles
The 600cc class of motorcycles offers a fantastic balance of power, handling, and affordability, making them popular choices for both new and experienced riders. These bikes are often described as “sportbike” or “middleweight” and represent a significant step up from smaller, less powerful entry-level models.
600cc Motorcycle Characteristics
- cc motorcycles are known for their potent engines that deliver a thrilling ride, while still being manageable for beginners. Their relatively lightweight design makes them nimble and easy to handle, allowing for confident maneuvering on both city streets and winding roads. The power-to-weight ratio is often described as “sweet spot”
- providing enough power for spirited riding without being overwhelming for new riders.
Types of 600cc Motorcycles
cc motorcycles are available in a variety of styles, catering to different riding preferences and needs. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular types:
Sportbikes
Sportbikes are the most common type of 600cc motorcycle. They are characterized by their aerodynamic fairings, aggressive riding position, and high-performance engines. Sportbikes are designed for speed and agility, making them popular for track days and spirited riding.
Naked Bikes
Naked bikes, also known as “streetfighters,” are similar to sportbikes in terms of performance but lack the full fairings. This results in a more upright riding position and a less aggressive feel. Naked bikes offer a more versatile riding experience, suitable for both city commuting and weekend adventures.
Sport-Touring Motorcycles
Sport-touring motorcycles combine the performance of sportbikes with the comfort and practicality of touring bikes. They feature a more relaxed riding position, larger windshields, and luggage options for long-distance travel. Sport-touring models are ideal for riders who enjoy spirited riding but also appreciate the comfort of touring.
Popular 600cc Motorcycle Models
The 600cc class is packed with fantastic models from various manufacturers. Here are some popular examples:
Sportbikes
- Yamaha R6: Known for its sharp handling and powerful engine, the R6 is a true track-focused sportbike.
- Honda CBR600RR: The CBR600RR is another popular choice for track days, offering a well-balanced blend of performance and handling.
- Suzuki GSX-R600: The GSX-R600 is a lightweight and agile sportbike with a reputation for its responsive engine.
Naked Bikes
- Kawasaki Z650: The Z650 offers a stylish design, comfortable riding position, and a smooth engine.
- Suzuki SV650: The SV650 is known for its user-friendly engine and forgiving handling, making it a popular choice for beginners.
- Yamaha MT-07: The MT-07 is a fun and engaging naked bike with a punchy engine and a comfortable riding position.
Sport-Touring Motorcycles
- Honda CBR650F: The CBR650F offers a comfortable riding position, ample power, and a smooth engine, making it suitable for both commuting and touring.
- Yamaha Tracer 700: The Tracer 700 combines the performance of a sportbike with the practicality of a touring bike, featuring a comfortable riding position, adjustable windshield, and luggage options.
- Suzuki V-Strom 650XT: The V-Strom 650XT is a versatile sport-touring motorcycle that is equally at home on paved roads and dirt trails.
Advantages of a 600cc Motorcycle for Beginners: Is A 600cc A Good Starter Bike
A 600cc motorcycle offers a balanced blend of power, handling, and affordability, making it an attractive option for novice riders. It provides a smooth learning curve, allowing you to gradually build your skills and confidence without being overwhelmed.
Power Delivery and Control
Starting with a 600cc motorcycle allows you to experience a good amount of power without being intimidated by excessive acceleration. This is crucial for beginners as it provides a safe and controlled learning environment. The power delivery is linear and predictable, making it easier to manage and learn throttle control.
Maneuverability and Handling
cc motorcycles are known for their agility and responsiveness, making them easy to handle in various riding situations. Their lighter weight and compact design allow for effortless maneuvering through tight corners and in city traffic.
Learning Curve
The learning curve on a 600cc motorcycle is generally considered to be more gradual than that of a larger displacement bike. This is because the power delivery is more manageable, allowing you to focus on developing essential riding skills like cornering, braking, and throttle control.
Safety Considerations
Starting with a 600cc motorcycle provides a good balance of power and control, making it a safer option for beginners. The manageable power output allows you to gradually learn how to handle the bike’s acceleration and braking, reducing the risk of accidents caused by sudden bursts of speed or over-braking.
Comparison to Smaller and Larger Displacement Motorcycles
A 600cc motorcycle offers a middle ground between smaller displacement bikes and larger displacement motorcycles. Smaller displacement bikes may lack the power for highway riding or overtaking, while larger displacement bikes can be intimidating for beginners due to their sheer power and potential for accidents.
Considerations for Choosing a 600cc Motorcycle
Choosing the right 600cc motorcycle is a crucial step in your journey as a rider. This class offers a great balance of power, handling, and affordability, making it popular among beginners and experienced riders alike. But with so many models available, it can be overwhelming to decide which one is best for you. Here’s a breakdown of the key factors to consider when choosing your 600cc motorcycle:
Riding Style
Your riding style is the most important factor in determining the right 600cc motorcycle for you. Are you looking for a sporty bike for track days, a comfortable cruiser for long rides, or something in between?
- Sportbikes: These bikes are designed for performance and handling, with aggressive riding positions and powerful engines. Popular examples include the Yamaha R6, Honda CBR600RR, and Kawasaki Ninja 636.
- Standard/Naked Bikes: These bikes offer a more upright riding position and are typically more versatile than sportbikes. They’re well-suited for commuting, city riding, and light touring. Popular examples include the Suzuki SV650, Triumph Street Triple, and Yamaha FZ-07.
- Sport Touring Bikes: These bikes blend the performance of sportbikes with the comfort of touring bikes, offering a more relaxed riding position and additional storage options. Popular examples include the Kawasaki Ninja 650, Yamaha FZ6R, and Honda CBR650F.
Budget, Is a 600cc a good starter bike
cc motorcycles come in a wide range of prices, from entry-level models to more expensive premium options. It’s important to set a budget before you start shopping to avoid overspending.
- Entry-Level: Expect to pay around $5,000 to $8,000 for a used 600cc motorcycle. These bikes are typically older and may have higher mileage, but they can be a great value for budget-minded riders.
- Mid-Range: Used 600cc motorcycles in good condition can cost between $8,000 to $12,000. These bikes are usually newer and have lower mileage.
- Premium: New 600cc motorcycles can cost upwards of $12,000, with some premium models reaching $15,000 or more. These bikes offer the latest technology and features, but they come at a higher price.
Experience Level
Your experience level is another important factor to consider. A 600cc motorcycle can be a great starter bike, but it’s important to choose a model that’s appropriate for your skill level.
- Beginner: If you’re new to riding, it’s best to start with a bike that’s forgiving and easy to handle. Consider a standard or sport touring model with a lower seat height and a less aggressive riding position.
- Intermediate: As you gain experience, you can graduate to a more powerful and sporty bike. A sportbike or a higher-performance standard model can be a good choice for intermediate riders.
- Experienced: Experienced riders can choose from a wider range of 600cc motorcycles, including high-performance sportbikes and specialized models for specific riding styles.
Fit and Comfort
Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, it’s important to test ride the bikes you’re considering. This will give you a feel for the bike’s handling, performance, and comfort.
- Seat Height: Make sure the bike’s seat height is comfortable for you. You should be able to flat-foot the ground when stopped, with your knees slightly bent. If the seat is too high, you’ll have difficulty maneuvering the bike at low speeds.
- Riding Position: The riding position is another important factor to consider. Sportbikes have an aggressive riding position, with your arms extended and your back hunched over. Standard bikes have a more upright riding position, which is more comfortable for long rides.
- Controls: Make sure the bike’s controls are easy to reach and operate. You should be able to comfortably reach the handlebars, levers, and foot controls.
Research and Compare
Once you’ve considered your riding style, budget, experience level, and fit, it’s time to start researching and comparing different 600cc motorcycle models.
- Read Reviews: Check out online reviews from other riders to get an idea of the pros and cons of each model. You can find reviews on websites like Motorcycle.com, Cycle World, and Revzilla.
- Compare Specifications: Compare the specifications of different models to see how they stack up in terms of engine size, power, weight, and other important factors.
- Look at User Feedback: Check out forums and social media groups for user feedback on specific models. This can give you valuable insights into the bike’s reliability, performance, and overall ownership experience.
Riding a 600cc Motorcycle
A 600cc motorcycle can be a thrilling ride, but it’s crucial to master the fundamentals of riding before hitting the open road. This section delves into the essential techniques and skills needed to ride a 600cc motorcycle safely and confidently.
Learning to Ride a 600cc Motorcycle
Learning to ride a motorcycle, especially a 600cc, is a gradual process that requires patience, practice, and a commitment to safety. Here’s a step-by-step guide for beginners:
1. Motorcycle Familiarization
- Start by getting comfortable with the motorcycle’s controls. Understand the function of the clutch, throttle, brakes, gear shifter, and other essential components.
- Practice starting and stopping the engine, getting a feel for the clutch engagement point and throttle response.
- Learn to use the motorcycle’s stand and how to safely maneuver it in tight spaces.
2. Basic Riding Techniques
- Begin in a controlled environment, like a parking lot or empty area.
- Practice slow-speed maneuvers, such as starting, stopping, and turning at low speeds.
- Master the clutch and throttle control, ensuring smooth acceleration and deceleration.
- Gradually increase your speed as you become more confident.
3. Cornering Techniques
- Learn to lean into corners, keeping your body relaxed and your head up.
- Maintain a consistent speed through corners, avoiding sudden acceleration or braking.
- Use your body weight to help balance the motorcycle in turns.
- Practice in a controlled environment until you feel comfortable.
4. Braking Techniques
- Practice braking smoothly and progressively, using both brakes in coordination.
- Avoid sudden or harsh braking, which can lead to loss of control.
- Learn to use the front brake effectively, as it provides the majority of braking power.
- Practice emergency braking in a safe environment to develop quick reaction times.
5. Riding on the Road
- Once you feel confident in a controlled environment, start riding on the road, but always choose less-traveled roads initially.
- Be aware of your surroundings, including other vehicles, pedestrians, and road conditions.
- Practice defensive riding techniques, anticipating potential hazards and maintaining a safe following distance.
- Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, gloves, boots, and protective clothing.
Common Mistakes Beginners Make
Every rider makes mistakes, but being aware of common beginner errors can help you avoid them:
- Over-revving the engine: Beginners often over-rev the engine, especially when starting off. This can lead to jerky starts and wheelspin. Solution: Practice smooth throttle control and gradually increase the engine speed.
- Not downshifting before slowing down: Failing to downshift before slowing down can lead to engine braking, which can cause the motorcycle to lose traction. Solution: Learn to downshift smoothly and progressively before slowing down.
- Braking too hard: Applying excessive braking force can cause the front wheel to lock up, leading to a loss of control. Solution: Practice progressive braking techniques, using both brakes in coordination.
- Not looking far enough ahead: Focusing on the immediate surroundings can lead to poor anticipation and reaction times. Solution: Train yourself to look far ahead, anticipating potential hazards and planning your route.
- Not using the clutch properly: Improper clutch use can lead to stalling, jerking, and loss of control. Solution: Practice smooth clutch engagement and disengagement, gradually releasing the clutch lever while applying throttle.
- Leaning too much in corners: Over-leaning can cause the motorcycle to lose traction and skid. Solution: Practice gradual leaning and maintaining a balanced position in corners.
600cc Motorcycles vs. Other Displacement Options
Choosing the right motorcycle displacement is crucial for a beginner rider. While a 600cc motorcycle is often recommended, it’s essential to consider the advantages and disadvantages compared to smaller and larger displacement options.
Comparison of Displacement Options
Understanding the pros and cons of different displacement options helps you make an informed decision. Here’s a table comparing 250cc-400cc, 600cc, and 750cc+ motorcycles for beginners:
| Feature | 250cc-400cc | 600cc | 750cc+ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power and Acceleration | Gentle and forgiving | More powerful, but manageable | Powerful and potentially overwhelming |
| Handling and Maneuverability | Easy to handle and maneuver | More responsive, but requires more skill | Can be challenging to handle, especially at low speeds |
| Fuel Efficiency | Generally excellent | Good fuel economy | Lower fuel efficiency |
| Cost | More affordable | Mid-range pricing | More expensive |
| Maintenance | Typically less expensive | Moderate maintenance costs | Potentially higher maintenance costs |
Challenges and Benefits of Starting with a 600cc Motorcycle
Starting with a 600cc motorcycle presents both challenges and benefits:
Challenges:
- Power and Throttle Control: 600cc motorcycles have more power than smaller displacement bikes, requiring precise throttle control, especially for beginners. Sudden acceleration can be overwhelming and lead to mistakes.
- Handling and Stability: The increased power and torque of a 600cc motorcycle can make it more challenging to handle, especially at low speeds. Learning to balance and maintain stability is crucial.
- Potential for Overconfidence: The perceived “coolness” factor of a 600cc motorcycle can lead to overconfidence, pushing beginners beyond their skill level and increasing the risk of accidents.
Benefits:
- Learning Curve: While challenging, a 600cc motorcycle offers a steeper learning curve. You’ll develop essential skills like throttle control, braking, and cornering faster.
- Future Growth: A 600cc motorcycle provides a solid foundation for transitioning to larger displacement bikes later on. The skills you develop on a 600cc will be transferable.
- Performance and Versatility: 600cc motorcycles offer a balance of performance and versatility. They’re capable of handling various riding styles, from commuting to sport riding.
Ultimately, deciding whether a 600cc motorcycle is right for you depends on your individual circumstances and experience level. If you’re looking for a machine that offers a good balance of power and manageability, a 600cc could be a great choice. However, if you’re completely new to riding, starting with a smaller displacement motorcycle might be a safer and more gradual learning experience.
Remember, the most important thing is to choose a bike that you feel comfortable and confident riding.
FAQ Corner
What are some popular 600cc motorcycle models?
Some popular 600cc motorcycle models include the Yamaha R6, Honda CBR600RR, Kawasaki Ninja 650, Suzuki GSX-R600, and Triumph Street Triple 660.
What are the safety considerations for riding a 600cc motorcycle?
Safety is paramount when riding any motorcycle. It’s crucial to wear proper protective gear, understand the bike’s controls, and practice safe riding techniques. Always be aware of your surroundings and anticipate potential hazards.
How do I choose the right 600cc motorcycle for me?
Consider your riding style, budget, and experience level. Test ride different models to find the one that feels most comfortable and suits your needs. Read reviews and compare specifications to make an informed decision.