Built around Kawasaki's sport motorcycle platform, the 1998 Kawasaki ZX-6R relies on a 599 cc (36.6 cu in) liquid-cooled in-line four, four-stroke powerplant. In factory specification, peak output is rated at 108 HP (78.8 kW) at 12,000 rpm while maximum torque reaches 65 Nm (47.9 lb-ft) at 10,000 rpm, transferring power to the rear wheel through a 6-speed gearbox and chain final drive. With a specific output of 180.3 HP per liter and a 2,000 rpm working window between peak torque (10,000 rpm) and peak power (12,000 rpm), the engine character is placing it firmly in high-revving supersport territory where top-end breathing dominates.
On the scales, the ZX-6R measures 203 kg (448 lbs) wet (curb), translating to a power-to-weight ratio of 0.53 HP/kg (1.88 kg per horsepower). Rider ergonomics and chassis geometry center around a 820 mm (32.3 in) seat height — resulting in a taller command-style riding posture suited to medium-to-tall inseams, combined with a 1,466 mm (57.7 in) wheelbase engineered for balanced agility and highway composure. The 18-liter (4.8 US gal) fuel tank supports practical everyday commuting and weekend road stints, while factory top speed is listed at 265 km/h (165 mph).
Specific Output
180.3 HP/L
Power-to-Weight
0.53 HP/kg (1.88 kg/HP)
Power Band Window
10,000–12,000 rpm
Standover Height
820 mm (32.3 in)
Engine
Displacement599.0 ccm (36.55 cubic inches)
Engine TypeIn-line four, four-stroke
Engine DetailsIn-line four, four-stroke
Power108.0 HP (78.8 kW)) @ 12000 RPM
Torque65.0 Nm (6.6 kgf-m or 47.9 ft.lbs) @ 10000 RPM
Compression11.8:1
Bore x Stroke66.0 x 43.8 mm (2.6 x 1.7 inches)
Valves/Cylinder4
Fuel SystemCarburettor. 4 x 36mm Keihin CVKD36
Fuel ControlDouble Overhead Cams/Twin Cam (DOHC)
IgnitionDigital
CoolingLiquid
Transmission
Gearbox6-speed
Final DriveChain (final drive)
Performance
Top Speed265.0 km/h (164.7 mph)
Chassis
Front Suspension46mm Showa telescopic forks
Front Travel120 mm (4.7 inches)
Rear SuspensionShowa sing shock, adjustable preload and rebounding preload.
Rear Travel135 mm (5.3 inches)
Wheelbase1466 mm (57.7 inches)
Wheels & Brakes
Front Tyre120/60-ZR17
Rear Tyre170/60-ZR17
Front BrakesDouble disc. Six-piston calipers.
Front Brake Ø300 mm (11.8 inches)
Rear BrakesSingle disc. Single-piston caliper.
Rear Brake Ø220 mm (8.7 inches)
Dimensions & Weight
Dry Weight176.0 kg (388.0 pounds)
Weight incl.203.0 kg (447.5 pounds)
Power/Weight0.6136 HP/kg
Seat Height820 mm (32.3 inches) If adjustable, lowest setting.
Use this page to compare this motorcycle by its real specifications, not only by model name. Focus on the details that affect fit, comfort, handling, range and ownership.
Power
Compare engine output with similar motorcycles if acceleration, highway use or two-up riding matters.
Torque
Torque is useful for judging real-world pull, especially for touring, commuting and loaded riding.
Seat Height
Check the seat height against your inseam and riding posture before choosing a motorcycle.
Weight
Compare weight carefully because it affects low-speed handling, parking and confidence.
Fuel Capacity
Fuel capacity helps estimate touring range and how often you may need to stop.
Brakes
Brake setup is worth comparing if you ride in traffic, mountains or with a passenger.
Suspension
Suspension details can matter for comfort, road feel and long-distance riding.
Transmission
Transmission and final drive affect maintenance, smoothness and everyday usability.
