The Honda Hornet, Yamaha FZ6 and Suzuki GSR have been among the best-selling motorcycles over the last three years. Now they are very interesting second-hand because, given the abundance of supply, they are available at more than good prices. Let’s look at their strengths and weaknesses in detail. Alternatively, Ducati and Kawasaki (below) are the right choice.

Honda Hornet, the simplest

Like all Hondas, the Hornet 600 immediately inspires confidence and is easy to ride, but at the same time can be a lot of fun when the corners come. It is precise in the bends and is not afraid of sporty driving. The engine is almost surprising because it is responsive even at medium revs, which is rare for a 600cc four-cylinder of sporty origins (derived from that of the CBR 600 RR). The large dashboard above the headlight is not very nice to look at, but it takes some of the pressure off the driver, which improves comfort when driving on the highway. In town, it is as easy as a large scooter, it maneuvers like a handkerchief and has a smooth gearbox and clutch. The brakes are good (especially on models with ABS), but rear wheel control is a bit spongy.

Check carefully before buying
● Brake discs
If the owner has replaced the brake pads by installing “racing” spare parts, the service life of the discs can be reduced to 20,000 km
● Change
The gears must engage smoothly and without any special force, otherwise problems with the gearshift may occur.
● Exhaust
Subjected to shocks, if the owner has used the motorcycle in the city as a scooter, check carefully that there are no dents or scratches

On the market from 2007 to 2013
The latest version of the four-cylinder Hornet has been on the market for 6 years. Prices now range between 2,000 and 4,000 euros.

Suzuki GSR 600, lots of bite

The GSR seems to go much faster than the others (although our measurements show that the reality is different): with its seating position that weighs on the wrists, it eats up the curves in no time, but requires a “physical” and aggressive driving style. The brakes are also very powerful, the braking distances are short, but you have to dose the force well because the system “bites” immediately. The engine is pleasant and lively even at medium revs (almost on a par with the Hornet), but the best comes out at high revs with a purely sporty bite; the sequential opening and closing of the accelerator pedal, however, becomes a little abrupt (“on-off effect”). The rigid suspensions make you feel the potholes and especially the cobblestones of the city, which limits comfort; the weight and size are also a little higher than the competition and are noticeable when maneuvering from a standstill. The finish is discreet: there are some plastic details that are too cheap for this type of motorcycle. The passenger accommodation is discreet.

Check carefully before buying
● Brake vibrations
Some GSRs experience vibrations when braking. The problem can sometimes be solved by replacing the front brake discs (average 250 euros), sometimes by changing the brake pads.
● Change
At low to medium speeds it is a bit rough and loud, but above 6000 rpm it should become quick and precise. Using a 100% synthetic oil will improve the situation somewhat.
● Dashboard
If you shift quickly without the clutch, the gear indicator can go crazy. This usually goes away on its own when you shift normally again.
● Mirror
They vibrate at medium to high speeds and impair visibility.

On the market from 2006 to 2011
Suzuki’s aggressive naked bike was produced for 5 years and then replaced by the GSR 750. Today it is available for the price of a scooter: prices range between 1,500 and 4,000 euros.

Yamaha FZ6, powerful and comfortable

The FZ6’s engine is a direct descendant of the sporty R6, and you can feel it: it’s powerful, but only gives its best at high revs. To make it work well, you have to keep it above 6,500 rpm. Below this rev range, the power is fluid, easy to control, but with little force. The riding position is comfortable, the suspension provides good comfort and the finish is good. On the first series, the fork is calibrated a little softly and doesn’t cope well with very sporty driving; on the S2, the situation has improved. Braking is very good, the two front discs are powerful and easy to modulate, the rear one brakes without easily locking the wheel. It does very well in town, it’s agile and can maneuver in small spaces, but the gearbox becomes a little stiff if used carelessly. The FZ6 is quick to turn into corners and responds quickly to the driver’s commands. There is no wind protection here either: at high speeds you have to hold on to the handlebars. However, the accommodation for passengers is adequate.

Check carefully before buying
● Seat post
The pillion footrests are welded directly to the seat post. A simple fall from a standing position is enough to damage them.
● Fork
After 15/20,000 km it usually becomes too soft, so it is best to change the oil immediately.
● Commissioning
Sometimes the starter motor misfires due to a grounding problem. You need to check the cable that connects the motor to the frame.

On the market from 2004 to 20011
It is one of the Japanese manufacturer’s longest-produced naked bikes and was particularly successful with the first series. The prices are irresistible: from 1500 to 3500 euros.

Our findings

Hornet 600GSR 600Yamaha FZ6Top speed229.4218.6218.7Acceleration 0-40011.912.212.2Consumption outside the city19.418.320.3Weight188200.2190.5