Yamaha Motor Australia has released the latest four cylinder XJ6NL - the naked version of the FZ6R.

Based on the popular XJ series of middleweights, the XJ6NL is powered by an R6 inspired inline four cylinder 600cc engine.

And - new for 2013 - the power output has been increased to offer even more of the trademark seamless delivery. This combines with compact dimensions, light weight and neutral steering to make the XJ6NL the ideal entry level machine.

This is a machine for learner riders who don't want to compromise. For riders who want the big bike feel and quality but who don't want to sacrifice performance and style. The no compromise attitude is reflected in this model's features. Compare these features with the XJ6NL's competitors:

NO COMPROMISE - XJ6NL key features

• Inline four cylinder powerplant produces more than 40% more power, plenty of low and mid-range urge and a 10,000rpm redline
• Lightweight and slim chassis for pinpoint handling
• Low seat height to suit a wide variety of riders
• Adjustable seat and handlebars
• Four new colour schemes for 2013
• Made in Japan Yamaha build quality
• RRP inc GST of only $9799 (SP Edition Matt Grey $9999)
  

Peak horsepower has been increased by more than 40%. A healthy 47.6bhp is now delivered at 10,000rpm to give a distinctly sporty edge over its rivals. With its strong flow of smooth handling power, this cool new 600 is a genuine all rounder, designed to make the rider feel equally at home in town, on twisty back roads and on the highway.

But one of the more visual changes to the 2013 model XJ6NL is its redesigned sidepanels, which feature a more integrated shape that flows seamlessly into the sculpted fuel tank. Being a naked model with minimal bodywork, the new-look sidepanels grab your attention and give this iconic 600 a sleeker, more flowing profile.

To complement the stylish new sidepanels, the XJ6NL is also fitted with a newly-designed headlight cowl, to give the bike's front end and profile a lighter look. Together with all of the other small changes introduced for the new season, this compact new assembly serves to emphasise the XJ6's sporty and agile character.

For 2013, both fully faired FZ6R and naked XJ6NL benefit from an all-new passenger grab bar assembly which offers improved looks and functionality. The new two-piece design features individual grab bars on the left and right side of the seat.

Another important change for the new season is the introduction of a higher-specification instrument panel. While the new panel retains the shape and layout of the previous design, its appearance and readability are enhanced by new LED backlighting and increased levels of contrast.

For improved feel and a more attractive appearance, the XJ6 is now equipped with a smooth seat cover, which offers higher grip and a comfortable ride. And to complement the bike's body colours, the latest XJ6NL is equipped with clear turn signal lenses.

Other detail changes include black accents on the fuel tank cap, as well as an internal position indicator on the rear wheel's chain adjuster mechanism for easy and accurate chain tension adjustments.

One of the most desirable models in the important LAM category is powered by an inline 4-cylinder engine that is tuned to deliver responsive low to mid-range torque for fun, easy riding.

The lightweight, slim and compact new chassis features a low seat height that is adjustable by 2cm. And the handlebars can be adjusted to suit the rider, making the XJ6 an ideal machine for both new and experienced riders of all ages who want a stylish middleweight that can handle just about any situation.

Unlike some of its close rivals, the XJ6NL is built in Japan and features Yamaha's extremely high quality of finish. This is a motorcycle designed to offer high levels of response and a bike that everyone will want to ride… an all level machine rather than entry level.

R6 inspired inline four
A 600cc liquid-cooled 4-stroke in-line 4-cylinder engine produces linear performance to power the nimble handling machine. The engine has a bore x stroke of 65.5x 44.5mm and a high compression ratio of 12.2: 1.

Lightweight forged pistons and the introduction of the latest vibration analysis technology for the chassis mount has contributed to making the ride extremely comfortable, with a minimum of vibration felt by the rider.

Good flow during low valve lift is ensured by using a slim port shape. And a throttle body diameter of 32mm has been adopted in order to optimise the intake flow volume.

In addition to establishing a narrow overlap setting of 34º where both the intake valve and exhaust valve are open, the maximum valve lift is 6.6mm. This enables high compression ratio and high torque characteristics to be efficiently extracted in the low and middle rpm ranges. This is an important element in achieving good throttle control in the 4000 to 5000 rpm range.

The adoption of a narrow overlap angle minimises blow-by of unburned gas, promoting superior combustion. When combined with optimal settings for the ignition system and fuel injection system, this contributes to easy handling in the low and mid rpm ranges and good fuel economy.
A newly designed cylinder body, which is formed as one piece with the upper crankcase, has been adopted, ensuring optimum rigidity balance. The cylinders are ceramic composite plated ensuring superior heat dissipation.

Fuel injection mapping has been optimised in accordance with the engine specifications, with a focus on ease of handling in the ranges where the engine is operated. The injectors are four-hole two-direction high dynamic range type, and superior injection control is achieved with a compact 32-bit ECU.

The exhaust pipes are 4-1 4-2-1 type, and converge in a midship muffler. A three-way catalytic converter has been adopted for the compact midship muffler, which is located in the lower portion in the centre of the chassis. Signals from an O2 sensor that detects the residual oxygen concentration in the exhaust gas is fed back to the ECU in order to provide optimum fuel supply and in turn enable the catalytic converter to function effectively.

The midship muffler is a three-stage expansion type, providing good silencing, a sweet exhaust sound and aids the overall impression of concentration of mass in the machine design.

Clutch operation has been designed to offer a light pull at the lever but with a strong engagement to ensure a glitch free ride.

Sweet handling diamond-shaped frame
A diamond-shaped steel frame made of high-tensile pipes is specified for supreme handling. The main pipes are 31.8mm in diameter and 2.3mm thick. A simple design with a minimum of bending and welds has been adopted with good rigidity around the head and pivot points.

The engine is supported on four points with a rigid mount on this frame, enabling the engine to contribute to the strength of the chassis. Lateral rigidity has been balanced at a relatively low level in order to contribute to smooth cornering performance.

The structure of this frame contributes to the low seat height, which enables a wide range of riders to reach the ground with both feet.
In order to further enhance the smoothness of the ride and comfort, the dimensions around the front of the bike have been optimised. The XJ6NL has a caster angle of 26° and trail of 103 mm, contributing to the sweet feeling the rider gets when steering the bike.

A steel pipe with a square section has been adopted for the swingarm, providing superior rigidity balance. A structure has been used where the bracket that supports this rear arm is located inside the swingarm, helping make the body design slimmer.

A conventional type front suspension has been adopted with 41mm inner tubes. The handlebar crown that supports this is made from die-cast aluminum, and a forged steel part is used for the under bracket, providing superior cushioning performance and a good feeling with the ground around the front wheel.

The rear suspension is lightweight and contributes to the centralisation of mass, and a monocross suspension has been adopted to provide wheel travel higher than the shock unit stroke. Superior road hugging performance has been achieved with optimum design damping force valves and oil channels.

A 520 chain has been adopted for the final drive. It features a minimum of friction loss, and a reduction in the drag load provides good transmission of power. The sprocket specifications have been optimised to match the chain. In addition, the rear axle has a smaller diameter of 17mm, reducing overall weight.

The front brakes have lightweight design 45mm thick and 298mm diameter double discs. Hoses with an optimised coefficient of expansion have been adopted for this model, enhancing operating ease when initially braking.

The rear brake uses a 245mm disc, and the relationship between the pedal lever ratio and return spring force constant has been optimised, helping to generate braking force that is in proportion to the amount the pedal is depressed. Furthermore, the pads are semi-metal type, and the material has been specified in order to make the brakes easy to use.

Lightweight yet strong cast wheels are shod with grippy 17in radial tyres.

Other features

• Meter panel with digital display speedometer, analog tachometer, odometer/tripmeter, fuel gauge, water coolant and air temperature gauges
• Superior shine of exterior coating prevents scratches from standing out on front fender, side covers, etc.
• Aluminium foot rest bracket
• U-shaped lockable storage compartment beneath seat. For U-lock up to 300mm in length.
• Adjustable handlebar position adopted (Centre of handlebar holder is offset by 10mm to the front/rear, so the position can be changed by 20mm by rotating it 180°)

XJ6NL model overview

• Easy-handling, dynamic and stylish new middleweight
• Rider-friendly linear power characteristics
• Slim and lightweight handling feel
• Ideal balance of controllability and performance
• R6 sports based 600cc engine
• Plenty of low to mid-range torque
• Compact and attractive chassis
• Contemporary bodywork design give cool, light and agile roadster look
• Outstanding levels of fun, enjoyment and performance
• Full weather cheating fairing

Engine technical highlights

• 600cc liquid-cooled inline 4-cylinder 4-valve DOHC
• High-compression cylinder head
• Slim inlet ports
• Cam profile designed for strong and linear low to mid-range torque
• One-piece cylinder and upper crankcase for good rigidity
• Bore x stroke 65.5 mm x 44.5 mm
• Lightweight forged aluminium pistons
• Four-hole two-direction fuel injection system
• 4-2-1 exhaust with midship muffler located beneath chassis
• 3-way catalyser and exhaust O2 sensor
• Inner-push type clutch for easy action
• Shift mechanism designed for smooth and easy gear changing

Chassis technical highlights

• High-tensile steel diamond-type frame
• Idealised balance of lateral rigidity for strong cornering performance
• 1440mm wheelbase
• Easy-handling caster angle of 26 degrees and 103 mm trail
• Hexagonal slimline fuel tank with comfortable knee-grip area
• Slimline swingarm with inner bracket design
• 41mm diameter conventional front forks
• Monocross rear suspension
• 17.3 litre fuel tank capacity
• Low 785 mm seat height
• Lightweight 298 mm front discs and 245 mm rear disc, thickness 4.5mm
• 120/70-ZR17 front tyre and 160/60-ZR17 rear tyre
• Lightweight, low-drag 520 chain
• Lightweight cast wheels
• Timeless styling emphasises concentration of mass
• Multi-function instrumentation
• Adjustable handlebar position

Available colours
Competition White; Race Blu; Midnight Black; Matt Grey (SP). Note that SP model has a dual seat and carbonised ‘6' graphic.

Accessories
Yamaha offers a range of accessories created specifically for the XJ6NL including:

Aluminium rear carrier; Centre stand; Engine guard; City tank bag
Roller protectors; Tank pad; 46-litre top case; Inner bag for top case; Back rest for top case

For more information contact: