The 600cc supersport segment might have shrunk in recent times, but it still has a very loyal fan base across the world.

If you’re part of that fan club as well, then you must be aware that two of the most popular bikes in this segment are the Honda CBR600RR and the Yamaha YZF-R6. In this post, we’re bringing you a gobsmacking drag race between these legendary bikes. Let’s dive in, shall we?

The Contenders

The first contender is a model year (07-12) Honda CBR600RR. This iteration of the CBR600RR featured a 599cc, four-cylinder engine, which also powered Moto 2 bikes at the time, and put out 118 horsepower in its stock trim.

Going against the RR here is the latest generation Yamaha YZF-R6. Like the CBR, the R6 has a 599cc, four-cylinder engine but only manages 116 horsepower. Power difference aside, both bikes tip the scales at around 190kg (418 pounds).

Honda CBR600RR vs Yamaha YZF-R6 Drag Race

Judging from the facts mentioned above, the ball is clearly in the CBR600RR’s court, thanks to its power advantage and consequently, better power to weight ratio.

However, this isn’t exactly how things pan out as you're about to find out in the video below:

Top Speed Says

As you can see in the video, even though the CBR600RR takes the win in the first few rounds, it’s the Yamaha YZF-R6 that comes out on top in the end.

The blame for the R6’s initial slump is its extensive electronics package, including traction control, which cuts the power when the rider attempts an aggressive launch. However, once the rider figures out how to launch efficiently, the R6 easily passes the CBR600RR to take the win, again and again.

The dominant factor at play here seems to be the engine tune of the R6 that gives it a better top-end, even though the CBR600RR is slightly down on power.

All in all, this was yet another cut-throat drag race, and do comment down below if you want us to feature more of these!