Yamaha thought that its 2009 European lineup needs an adequate entry-level bike, something like the recently launched FZ6R, but a little more scenic. The solution came by reviving an old sport-touring bike, the Yamaha XJ6 Diversion which is also the name of the 2009 bike now ready to hit the streets of Europe.
Introduction
Having recently presented the new XJ Diversion at Iwata, Yamaha plans to conquer the sport-touring target by giving a touch of modern engineering and style to an already comfortable motorcycle. Revived as a result of increasing demands for middleweight models, the Diversion satisfies that request successfully as it is brand new and stands out thanks to its sports engine, low seat and elegant design of its half fairing.
The engine powering it is the same as on the FZ6R, a 600cc liquid-cooled four-stroke, DOHC 16 valves tuned for low-to-mid-range linear power in all of the bike’s six gears. Featuring bore x stroke dimensions of 65.5 mm x 44.5 mm, together with a high compression ratio of 12.2:1, Yamaha’s new middleweight engine doesn’t give any clue of being derived from the R6 engine as it develops 78 HP at 10,000 rpm and 6.1 kg-m at 8,500 rpm.
Chassis is all new on the latest Diversion, but what immediately stands out as you’re being introduced to the bike is the tubular steel diamond-type frame built for all-around performance and featuring a low seat height (only 30.9 inches). Built from high tensile steel pipes, 31.8 mm in diameter and 2.3 mm thick, the new frame is as simply designed as it is resistant. Yamaha designers made sure that the new frame won’t feature more than the necessary welds and bends, something that almost makes it pass unnoticed. You sure can’t say the same thing about the 41 mm diameter front forks which are tuned right at the point where maximum rigidity is assured without sacrificing the absorption abilities.
2009 Yamaha XJ6 Diversion
The brakes are composed of 298mm hydraulic discs in the front and 245mm at the rear. Probably the most notable touch of modernity is the anti-lock braking system. This has been developed to improve feel when hitting the brakes and still ensuring a linear control (3-position) ABS.
Also like on the FZ6R, the Diversion features Monocross suspension and the same pair of wheels holding the same 120/70 ZR17M/C 58W front and 160/60 ZR17M/C 69W rear tires.
The new instrument panel features both digital and analog instruments.
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