Faults:

Since the tanks are made of metal, the accumulation of moisture or old gasoline can lead to corrosion. This rust ends up clogging the carburetors and causing acceleration issues (though nothing serious).

Out-of-sync carburetors; the motorcycle takes a long time to warm up or doesn't run well without the choke after about 10 minutes.

Wear on the ignition lock cylinder, which sometimes prevents proper contact when attempting to start the engine.

As the mileage increases (especially beyond 50,000 km), the front fork bearings wear out and loosen.

General Comments:

The XJ600 is designed to be smooth, affordable, versatile, simple, and beginner-friendly.

The bike is suitable and easy to ride for beginners, though not particularly inspiring or exciting. However, as a versatile mode of transport for those moving up to larger-displacement motorcycles, this Yamaha gets the job done. The suspension is quite basic and the brakes are a bit soft, but the steering is precise and the ride is comfortable for two people.

It is truly smooth, and that is exactly how it should be. Its air-cooled, four-cylinder engine—designed specifically for this model—is mechanically bulletproof and foolproof, and its handling is much the same. Don't look for extreme power output; it simply doesn't have it.

It purrs effortlessly and is incredibly durable. Plus, thanks to its streamlined exhaust pipes and extensive cooling fins, it is somewhat reminiscent of a classic vintage Honda engine.

You can tell it is a motorcycle built to last, not to impress. That is why steel takes precedence over alloy, ruggedness over sophistication, and simple mechanics over high-tech features. And it works. The XJ600 rarely gives trouble, and it is quite common for it to run like new even after covering more than 50,000 kilometers.

The XJ600's two-valve engine is very robust, so any oil leaks or smoke upon cold start-up should be considered a warning sign. If it sounds good and the gearbox operates correctly, there shouldn't be any issues.

As for the accessories, it’s nothing spectacular. But for those of us who use this bike for work every day, there isn't much to complain about. The mirrors work properly, the instruments are clear, and the controls are well-placed; if I had to compare it to a car, I’d say it’s like a Japanese model from the 80s or a Mercedes from the 70s—though certainly more basic.

For those of us who want a simple, affordable, and easy-to-maintain bike, the XJ600 is exactly what we need—even though it’s getting on in years. You wouldn't know it to look at it.

Faults:

Firstly: I haven't touched the engine.

Rear unitrack suspension rebuilt for MOT.

Exhaust repaired with Gun Gum - still fine - it works!

Indicators (front) replaced with fairing mounted units.

Seat cover repaired with some magic adhesive they use to repair dinghies. It works!

I could do with an oil filter that doesn't need the exhaust system removing if you need to change it. Especially as these days the exhaust will probably fall apart if you try and take it off.

General Comments:

Very reliable. I bought this bike from some bloke who thought he wanted to get back into bikes until he dropped it, then he sold it to me and bought a Nissan Micra.

It isn't very quick or flash, but it goes and stops, and keeps going and stopping.

Fuel consumption is very good. Miles per smile very good. A cheap set of wheels.

Not the flashiest, but keeps on trucking.

Faults:

Had to replace right hand front caliper; mounting hole was made of cheese, not sure what happened there.

Carbs need an overhaul, just wear and tear/maintenance.

Rear shock is a bit flogged.

General Comments:

I bought this bike as a barn find that had been in a shed for nearly twenty years. A quick tidy up and it flew through its compliance Warranty of Fitness, and a nice new licence plate was issued.

My previous bike was a factory hot FZR400 that was incredibly quick, handled very nicely, but required physiotherapy after each ride; far too cramped! The XJ600 is very comfortable, and pretty staid.

It isn't the most exciting bike performance-wise, but to be honest it is nice to have something where I turn the key, go for a nice ride to work or just out and about, and nothing bad happens. It is comfortable, I get a good range out of a tank, and I don't feel tired after a ride. I like it!

The brakes are not particularly flash, but the engine has excellent 'braking' properties, which negates the need to use the brakes much at all.

The bike is rated at about ~53kw (~72hp) from the factory, and it is delivered smoothly and predictably, making it a very easy bike to operate.