The Yamaha XJ6 motorcycle is a simplified version of the famous 600 cc "Phaser", and has a lot in common with it. And its name refers to the once famous XJ 600 model, a popular road bike, which was also highly regarded as an excellent option for tourism on asphalt roads. Purely technically, the modern Diversion has nothing in common with the old XJ 600, these are completely different models, but the marketers of the Japanese company decided to play on the well-known name and were right.
Design
Since the Yamaha XJ6 was developed on the basis of the FZ-6, similar features can be traced in the appearance of these two models. This did the bike good; it looks great even by modern standards, and doesn’t seem like something from the distant past. This is doubly true for modifications with a plastic fairing, which in full view resembles its brothers in the YZF sports bike line. A successful combination of sporty and classic features has given the Yamaha Diversion a very harmonious and balanced appearance .
Brief history of the model
1992 - start of production and sales of the model. Model: Yamaha Diversion 600 / Seca II (Europe, North America). Factory designation: 4BR1, 4BR2, 4DG1, 4DS1, 4DU3, 4EB1.
1993 - no significant changes. Model: Yamaha Diversion 600 / Seca II (Europe, North America, Japan). Factory designation: 4BR3, 4BR4, 4DG2, 4DS2, 4HK1, 4EB2.
1994 - appearance of the naked modification. Model: Yamaha Diversion 600 / Seca II; Yamaha Diversion 600 (Naked) (Europe, North America, Oceania). Factory designation: 4BR6, 4BR7, 4DG4, 4EB4, 4KA1, 4KE1, 4KE2, 4KF1, 4LX1, 4MB1.
1995 - no significant changes. Model: Yamaha Diversion 600 / Seca II; Yamaha Diversion 600 (Naked) (Europe, North America). Factory designation: 4BR8, 4BR9, 4DG5, 4DUC, 4EB5, 4KA2, 4KE3, 4KE4, 4KF2, 4LX2, 4MB2.
1996 - no significant changes. Model: Yamaha Diversion 600 / Seca II; Yamaha Diversion 600 (Naked) (Europe, North America). Factory designation: 4BRA, 4DG6, 4DUF, 4EB6, 4KA3, 4KE5, 4KE6, 4KF3, 4LX3, 4MB3.
1997 - no significant changes. Model: Yamaha Diversion 600 / Seca II; Yamaha Diversion 600 (Naked) (Europe, North America). Factory designation: 4BRC, 4BRD, 4DG7, 4EB7, 4KA4, 4KE7, 4LX4, 4MB4.
1998 - restyling of the model. The model receives an increased thickness fork (38 → 41 mm), a 2-disc front brake (instead of a single disc), an oil cooler and new versions of carburetors. Model: Yamaha Diversion 600 / Seca II; Yamaha Diversion 600 (Naked) (Europe, North America). Factory designation: 4BRE, 4DG8, 4EB8, 4KA5, 4KE9, 4KF5, 4LX5, 4MB5.
1999 - no significant changes. Model: Yamaha Diversion 600; Yamaha Diversion 600 (Naked) (Europe). Factory designation: 4BRF, 4DG9, 4EB9, 4KA6, 4KEA, 4KF6, 4LX6, 4MB6.
2000 - no significant changes. Model: Yamaha Diversion 600; Yamaha Diversion 600 (Naked) (Europe). Factory designation: 4BRG, 4DGA, 4KEB, 4KF7, 4LX7, 4MB7.
2001 - no significant changes. Model: Yamaha Diversion 600; Yamaha Diversion 600 (Naked) (Europe). Factory designation: 4BRH, 4DGB, 4KEC, 4KF8, 4LX8, 4MB8.
2002 is the last year of production. Model: Yamaha Diversion 600; Yamaha Diversion 600 (Naked) (Europe). Factory designation: 4BRJ, 4DGC, 4KED, 4KF9, 4LX9, 4MB9.
Specifications
The FZ6R was a successful model in all respects, and Japanese engineers decided to offer the public a cheaper version, which became the Yamaha XJ6. By replacing the light-alloy frame with a steel one , reducing engine power and generally simplifying the design, they achieved their goal - the bike became more friendly, and its cost noticeably decreased.
Engine
Derated to 78 hp. The liquid-cooled inline-four, borrowed from the Phaser, has excellent traction almost from the very bottom, although the maximum torque of 60 Nm is available only after reaching 8000 rpm . But, unlike the donor, the Yamaha Diversion completely lacks sharp dips and pick-ups in different speed ranges. This makes handling much more predictable, which is very important, especially for beginner motorcyclists . From a design point of view, the engines of these motorcycles are almost identical; the main difference lies in their settings.
Transmission
Proven 6-speed gearbox , as reliable as a Swiss bank. It works noisily and slightly rough, which is especially noticeable when the engine is not yet warmed up. The gears are engaged with a knock that shakes the entire motorcycle, but when “hot” everything is quiet and smooth. In any case, the gearbox is extremely reliable, and you can only get problems with it if you don’t care about maintenance.
Chassis and brakes
The brakes on the Yamaha XJ6 aren't as impressive as those on its sporty siblings. Front and rear there are two 298 mm discs (2-piston calipers) and one 245 mm disc (1-piston caliper, respectively) , which are enough for satisfactory braking intensity, but nothing more. The situation is saved by the ABS system , which was offered as an additional option, as well as the replacement of conventional brake lines with reinforced ones. The suspensions are short-travel (130 mm front and rear), and preload adjustment is present only at the rear monoshock. The front fork is devoid of any adjustments.
Electronics
All electronics in the XJ-6 are securely hidden in the bowels of the motorcycle, and they are not afraid of rain and moisture. The wiring is laid out very thoughtfully, so that chafing of the wires due to friction against metal and plastic structural elements is excluded. There is nothing more complex in the bike than ABS and a digital instrument panel, which, by the way, is perfectly readable in any light.
Weight and dimensions
The curb weight of the bike ranges from 205 to 220 kg , depending on the configuration, which is several tens of kilograms higher than that of the Phaser. This is not surprising; the steel frame alone, which replaced the aluminum one, immediately added a lot of weight. In terms of size, this model can be called medium; it is quite comfortable for pilots of any height and build.
Controllability
Perhaps this is the main advantage of the bike, which all owners mention in their reviews. It obeys the steering wheel perfectly, and at any speed. The XJ-6 draws a clearly visible trajectory before the pilot’s gaze, even on serpentines and in long turns, for which it is sometimes even called “boring.” But most motorcyclists consider this behavior of their two-wheeled friend to be an undeniable advantage over its competitors.
Fuel consumption
According to the manufacturer, average fuel consumption does not exceed 5 liters . In fact, it can be higher, up to 6-6.5 liters , if you like to drive aggressively or just quickly. The volume of the gas tank is 17.3 liters , and the bike will inform you that you have already switched to reserve fuel reserves when there is still 3.2 liters of gasoline left in the tank.
You can pour AI-92, although, judging by the reviews of the owners, many prefer not to save money and pour AI-95.
Differences from similar motorcycles from other companies
What makes the Yamaha Diversion 600 special? The answer is this: the developers sought to bring to life the most comfortable qualities for driving and controlling a motorcycle. The model was modernized with newfangled inclusions - a cunning headlight with a “side size” star in the forehead, “turn signals” placed along with the number at a respectable distance from the “tail”, and especially a newfangled exhaust under the “belly”. The high-strength steel tube from which the diamond-shaped frame is constructed provides a balance of lateral stiffness, thereby increasing the very smoothness of cornering. The chassis of the Yamaha Diversion 600 has a modern design, narrow, compact, impressive with its convenience and lightness, which is important for driving motorbikes in large cities with narrow streets.
From the point of view of a typical buyer of such equipment, who does not need adrenaline in a bunch of turns, but the ability to get to a place as safely as possible and with minimal fatigue, this type of bike will be ideal for him. The rigidity of the system is not lower than before, but we also tinkered with comfort, reconfiguring the suspension and increasing the fork angle at the same base. It is also worth noting that Yamaha Diversion motorcycles are suitable for both beginners and experienced, seasoned bikers. The tubular frame has significantly reduced the dimensions of the bike and its weight, which makes it possible to steadily adhere to a given trajectory. A motorcyclist of average to short stature can easily touch the ground with his feet at low speeds when maneuvering. The instrument panel contains a modern analog tachometer, as well as a functional monitor with a speedometer. This model is equipped with a tachometer needle with a luminescent coating and LED illumination of the main panel, which makes it easy to monitor the situation even at night. And this is not the least important point when choosing a future purchase.
Produced in three colors:
- Extreme Yellow.
- Midnight Black.
- Cloudy White.
Yamaha has also developed a huge number of accessories for this model for comfortable travel at any distance. The compact motorcycle "Yamaha Diversion-600" is easy to ride. An important role in describing the advantages of “Diversion” is played by a very stylish external appearance, which, combined with Japanese capitalism and the absence of significant disadvantages, makes the model attractive to a wide audience.
Reviews from owners about the Yamaha Diversion 600 bike are not very enthusiastic, although generally positive. Unfortunately, a large man is somewhat uncomfortable behind the wheel and still needs to try to look in the rearview mirrors. For spoiled motorcyclists, it seems too predictable and calm, although for a beginner this is sometimes worth a lot. There are very different opinions about traveling long distances. Some are wildly delighted, and some are dissatisfied with the fact that the seat is too thin and too hard for them to go on a long journey with pleasure and comfort.
Motorcycle price
Now this model is no longer produced, so you can become its owner only by purchasing it from someone else. The cheapest offers start at 260-280 thousand rubles , and the most expensive ones are offered for 500-530 thousand . The average price is about 350 thousand rubles, for this money there is a wide choice.
General advantages compared to similar motorcycles
Now that we’ve sorted out the technical characteristics, it’s time to summarize the cherished advantages of this model, confirmed by reviews. And they are as follows:
- Conveniently located switches, easy-to-use dashboard.
- On city roads and good highways, a comfortable bike ride is guaranteed.
- The motorcycle is easy to operate, predictable in behavior and amenable to complete control even in the most unexpected situations.
- Operation is simple for all categories of drivers.
- The seat is comfortable for long bike rides.
- The motorcycle is universal when choosing relative to the road surface.
- Optimal fairing system and stylish expensive design.
Repair and tuning
The myth that all Japanese motorcycles are complex and therefore expensive to maintain is nothing more than a myth . Such a popular Diversion is an inexpensive motorcycle, despite its excellent technical characteristics, and there is nothing overly complicated about it. Of course, this is a consequence of the attempts of Japanese engineers to reduce the cost of its production, but what difference does it make if the result is still so good?
Repair
Since there are no auxiliary systems other than ABS in this model, its repair and maintenance are quite simple. Any problems, even the most serious ones, can be dealt with at any general motorcycle service center, so there is no point in spending money on expensive trips to official dealers. And most operations can be done yourself if you are the happy owner of a garage and tools.
Spare parts
There are no problems with them - the company continues to support discontinued models for many years, and in many respects the Diversiya is unified with its brothers in the model range. Spare parts cost about the same as for all other Japanese bikes of a similar price category, that is, more expensive than for small-capacity bikes, but cheaper than for flagship models.
Tuning
There are a lot of tuning options available, if only you had enough money! The manufacturer offers something, but the choice of non-original parts is much higher. The most popular are windshields of increased height, xenon light optics and, in some cases, replacing the suspension with a more powerful one. All this is not cheap, but it is completely worth it.
Return of "Diversion"
Over time, the improved Yamaha Diversion 600 (2009) comes out, which has become a new and improved embodiment of the old model. The manufacturers' idea was to minimize the shortcomings of the progenitor, while creating a motorcycle with simpler controls and a competitive price, which the developers succeeded in doing. They coped with the task, the new product looked more expensive than it cost, and its consumer qualities became significantly higher than those of previous models and competitors. The Yamaha Diversion 600 is available to many potential buyers looking for a comfortable and less expensive motorcycle model in the market.
Motorcycle modifications
- XJ6 N , naked version, produced from 2009 to 2021. It cost less than all the others and was distinguished by the absence of a plastic body kit.
- The XJ6 S , or SA (for some markets), was produced at the same time. It had a developed front fairing at the front, but otherwise corresponded to the previous modification.
- XJ6 F (2010-2017). Technically, it is a complete analogue of the above versions, but the Yamaha XJ6 Diversion F is distinguished by a full set of plastic, which makes it look like a sportbike. In the USA, this modification was sold under the name FZ6 R.
Disadvantages to consider before purchasing
As with all other bikes, this Yamaha model also has disadvantages:
- Vibration may appear after 4 thousand revolutions.
- Maximum care should be taken when operating the brake and gas due to the weight of the device.
- The reliability of the motorcycle is reduced due to the presence of a fuel pump.
And despite everything, the Yamaha Diversion-600 is still a very interesting model of motorbikes in this category. At first glance, it seems like nothing supernatural, but your impression will change as soon as you try to drive the first hundred kilometers. Ease of control, reliability in operation, and presentable appearance evoke admiration from even the most advanced motorcyclist. Summarizing all the nuances described above, we can note the following: undoubtedly, the positive aspects of this model are that the Yamaha Diversion 600 can be controlled well at high speeds, and the low price will be a pleasant argument for a large target group of buyers. The disadvantage is the noisy operation of the clutch system, which leaves a not very pleasant feeling. The Yamaha 600 was not delivered to the CIS countries for a long time or arrived in a shabby condition, so today it is not so easy to find a Yamaha Diversion in our country. You can try turning to classifieds sites: there you can easily find many used motorcycle models and more.
Advantages and disadvantages
Despite the fact that this bike was born as a simplified and cheaper “younger brother” of the Phaser, it has much more advantages than weaknesses. The model turned out to be not only commercially successful, but also successful in all respects, and it was discontinued only so as not to create internal competition for the new bikes from the MT line.
Advantages
- Low cost of maintenance . Spare parts and consumables cost moderate money.
- Excellent dynamics and high top speed.
- High reliability and huge resource of all main components.
- A combination of excellent maneuverability and predictable engine operation.
- Versatility - the bike was equally well suited for short trips and very long ones.
Flaws
- Noisy engine . This makes it difficult to superficially diagnose potential faults.
- A lot of weight for a road 600.
- It is very difficult to drive on dirt roads.
Peculiarities
The Yamaha XJ 600 S Diversion is a road bike that is equally well suited for both experienced and novice pilots.
The motorcycle has few distinctive features, and some users consider some of them to be advantages, others to consider them disadvantages.
- Ergonomics . A comfortable large sofa for both the motorcyclist and the passenger, ideally calculated height and inclination of the mirrors and instrument panel.
- Good handling , convenient for shooting between rows.
- Excellent maneuverability.
- Gripping brakes.
- Cost - at the time of release, new, it cost about the same as a well-used 400.
And there is also good traction at any speed. “You can already drive at 1500 rpm, according to reviews.”
Owner reviews
The Yamaha XJ6's performance, of course, is not great, but the bike is still peppy, balanced and very comfortable. I owned the full plastic version for two years, the ride is comfortable, the seating position is almost straight, and not like on sports bikes, my back and arms don’t get tired. The standard wind deflector is enough for up to 150-160 km/h, and you don’t need more; in extreme cases, you can lie down on the tank. I traveled around the city to work constantly, plus evening errands and trips to the sea once or twice a season. With a passenger, a topcase and two textile side cases at a speed of 120-130, the consumption is less than a liter more than alone. I wouldn’t have parted with the moto, but I suddenly needed money, I had to walk for one season, and then I bought a new FJ-09, which Tracer is also happy with as an elephant. Ilya, Moscow.
When I was choosing between Hornet, Bandit and Diversion and reading tons of reviews, I almost went crazy, but in the end I still took the Yamaha and did not regret it. The engine is fire, overtaking is easy at any speed, there have not been a single breakdown in 30k miles. The downside is that the engine is noisy; if you travel long distances, I really recommend either buying an integral with good noise, or putting earplugs in. And the standard glass on the Yamaha XJ6SA is not suitable for pilots taller than 180-185 cm, the wind blows right into the head, so tall riders need to place the glass higher. Arthur, Krasnodar.
The bike handles beautifully; once, at the exit of a long turn at a speed of under 120, I caught a wobble and almost gave birth to a hedgehog. It’s not my first year behind the wheel, I know what to do, so I just let the XJ 6 straighten itself out. And so it happened, Diversion simply caught the road and moved on as if nothing had happened. He really forgives mistakes, although the stupidity is enough for instant teleportation to the next world, so we still don’t turn off our heads, gentlemen motorcyclists. Evgeniy, Omsk.
Yamaha design: as always in its splendor
The body of the Yamaha Diversion 600 was enlarged, resulting in a large and comfortable seat, which is important for long rides. Both the mirrors and the panel board are located as much as possible for the driver of the bike, and the ergonomics themselves are excellent. The ride quality of the motorcycle allows you to feel great both in a big busy city and on a breathtaking ride on the highway. The braking system is balanced and makes it possible to accelerate and brake effectively even in the most unexpected situations, which adds a definite plus to safety. But the most important innovation is that now the Yamaha Diversion has begun to look larger and more massive: it is for this quality that experienced motorcyclists choose. Yes, with such a model it can sometimes be inconvenient in traffic jams around the city, but the external solidity and internal characteristics more than make up for this drawback.
As for her appearance, she also managed to stand out with a variety of colors: green, black, red, blue, silver-gray, purple, burgundy, yolk. Over time, a color scheme in a stylish metallic shade was added to the model: now the Yamaha Diversion 600 motorcycle has become noticeable on the road from afar. The developers chose non-standard colors after each change and improvement of the bike in accordance with the reaction of regular customers. The Yamaha Diversion 600 is a low-slung, lightweight and compact motorcycle: such features contribute to good streamlining, which significantly improves maneuverability in various situations on the roads.
FAQ
- Are the spare parts for Phasers and Diversions interchangeable? Yes, many internal components are suitable. Moreover, some parts are standardized with other models of the manufacturer.
- Is it possible to take the plastic from a Yamaha XJ6 Diversion F and put it on a naked version? Yes, but a lot of things will have to be “finished with a file”, since there are no fastenings for the plastic body kit on naked bikes. Yes, and such an undertaking will cost a tidy sum.
Target audience: who is this model suitable for?
Thanks to the strong power flow of the six-cc engine, which is easy to control, the Yamaha Diversion 600 is a versatile bike that performs well both on crowded city streets and on highways. It does not require frequent maintenance and you can save a decent amount of money on future use. Finishing elements and modern design make this unit one of the brightest representatives of the middle class.
Manufacturers have contributed a lot to the new version of the “Diversion”: the improved model “Yamaha Diversion-600” (2014), the tuning of which you can also choose at your discretion, has an extremely successful design and provides the opportunity to correct it at your discretion in any good car service center.
Conclusion
While characterizing the Yamaha XJ6 Diversion F as an obedient and easy-to-ride motorcycle , let’s not forget that it has high power. Yes, it can be recommended to cautious beginners who have graduated from a motorcycle school, where they were taught not only to pass the traffic police license exam, but also to actually ride. But when riding this steel horse, you must always remember that it can easily throw off an arrogant driver who has decided that he knows everything and can do everything. But in the hands of an experienced pilot, Diversion can work wonders and serve for years without any breakdowns.
Specifications
| Maximum engine power: | 77.5 hp (57 kW) at 10000 rpm HP |
| Torque: | 59.7 Nm (6.1 kg*m) at 8000 rpm Nm |
| Working volume: | 600 cm3 |
| Motor type (cylinder arrangement, number of strokes): | 4-cylinder, 4-stroke, in-line |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Number of valves: | |
| Intake type (Injector / Carburetor): | |
| Bore and stroke: | |
| Starting system (Electric starter, kick starter): | |
| Maximum speed in km/h: | 207 km/h |
| Cooling system: | Liquid |
| Transmission (gearbox): | 6-speed, Manual |
| Clutch (Dry / Wet): | |
| Drive unit: | Chain |
| Frame: | Steel diagonal |
| Chassis | |
| Suspension (front/rear travel): | |
| Brakes (Front/Rear): | |
| Wheels / Tires / Rubber: | |
| Dimensions and weight | |
| Dimensions (Length / Width): | |
| Seat height: | |
| Ground clearance: | |
| Curb weight: | |
| Wheelbase: | 1440 mm |
| Weight: | 205 - 220, depending on modification kg |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 17.3 l. |
| Battery capacity: | |
| Year of release: | |
| Country of Origin: |
Features of the model, or What else do we not know about the popular motorbike?
The new model was significantly redesigned, but the creators did not change the old front shock absorbers due to savings: this could greatly increase the already high price of this model. The thickness of the discs was reduced by 0.5 mm (they should play a role in reducing inertia during acceleration and braking). The rims have become lighter, and the use of a lighter 520 chain and a smaller rear axle diameter allows the unsprung and rotating masses of the motorbike to be reduced. Accordingly, greater realization of the motor’s capabilities became possible: to improve its elasticity, it had to be redesigned. The combination of intake and exhaust devices has changed.
As a result, the thrust increased significantly by 4,000-5,000 rpm in the main engine operating mode, as a result of which it became possible to change gears more rarely, which greatly simplifies the process of driving the bike. In order to reduce costs, the aluminum frame was replaced with a steel one, which increased the overall weight of the motorcycle. For a visual comparison, consider the Yamaha Diversion 600 (1992) model in the photo below.
The weight of the bike today when fully equipped is about 216 kg. As standard, flat sliders protect the equipment from damage. It is also possible to equip it with an ABS system. The suspension is quite soft and works perfectly. On good road surfaces the bike feels balanced. The steel frame is not practical enough for driving on bad roads; it will be much more difficult to control the motorcycle: but this should not scare you away, because this model has many more advantages. As for the gear shift and clutch mechanism, it has been redesigned for better maneuverability in city traffic. The braking system meets the expectations of even the most experienced drivers. The gearbox is precise and shifts smoothly. The top speed is about 215 km/h, and it accelerates to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds. It starts moving easily, starting at idle speed. All these points, of course, attract the attention of the future buyer, but it’s still worth paying attention to the insides of the model.
Tire pressure
With a load of 0-90 kg, the pressure in “cold” tires should be:
- For the front wheel 225 kPa
or
2.25 Bar
(atmospheres); - For the rear wheel 250 kPa
or
2.5 Bar
(atmospheres).
With a load of 90-184 kg, the pressure in “cold” tires should be:
- For the front wheel 250 kPa
or
2.5 Bar
(atmospheres) or
36.25 psi
; - For the rear wheel 290 kPa
or
2.9 Bar
(atmospheres) or
42 psi
.
Photo gallery
This is a stylish and comfortable bike model from the Japanese brand Yamaha, with a bright design. This bike is suitable for both beginners and experienced drivers, we suggest you look at it in more detail, perhaps it will conquer you.
