Positioning:
The Yamaha FZS 600, often referred to as the 'Fazer' in many markets, was a popular mid-weight sport-touring motorcycle known for its blend of performance, comfort, and practicality. It served as a versatile machine for commuting, touring, and spirited riding.
Competitors:
Competed with other 600cc class motorcycles of its era, such as the Honda CB600F Hornet, Kawasaki ZZ-R600, and Suzuki Bandit GSF600.
Features:
Liquid-cooled inline-four engine, comfortable ergonomics for sport-touring, faired design for wind protection, reliable and accessible performance.
Systems:
General Information, Specifications, Periodic Checks and Adjustments, Chassis, Engine, Cooling System, Carburetion, Electrical System, Troubleshooting
Procedures:
Maintenance, Repair, Disassembly, Reassembly, Troubleshooting, Adjustments
Depth:
Comprehensive, step-by-step instructions for do-it-yourselfers and experienced mechanics, based on complete disassembly.
Illustrations:
Hundreds of photos and illustrations guiding through service and repair procedures.
Engine Type:
Liquid-cooled, 4-stroke, DOHC, 4-valve inline-four
Displacement:
599 cc (36.6 cu in)
Bore X Stroke:
61.0 mm x 50.4 mm
Compression Ratio:
12.2:1 (typical, may vary slightly by region)
Horsepower:
Approx. 95 hp @ 11,000 rpm (claimed, may vary by region)
Torque:
Approx. 6.1 kg-m (44.1 lb-ft) @ 9,500 rpm (claimed, may vary by region)
Fuel Delivery:
Carburetor
Carburetor Type:
Likely Mikuni BSF32 (4x 32mm downdraft carburetors)
Fuel Type:
Unleaded gasoline
Ignition System:
TCBI (Transistor Controlled Ignition)
Lubrication System:
Wet sump
Length:
Approx. 2,125 mm (83.7 in)
Width:
Approx. 750 mm (29.5 in)
Height:
Approx. 1,160 mm (45.7 in)
Wheelbase:
Approx. 1,430 mm (56.3 in)
Dry Weight:
Approx. 187 kg (412 lbs)
Wet Weight:
Approx. 208 kg (459 lbs) (fully fueled, approximately)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
20 liters (5.3 US gal)
Front Suspension:
Telescopic forks, 41mm stanchion tubes, adjustable preload (typical specification)
Rear Suspension:
Monoshock, adjustable preload and rebound damping (typical specification)
Front Tire:
120/70ZR17 M/C (58W)
Rear Tire:
160/60ZR17 M/C (69W)
Front Brake:
Dual 298mm hydraulic discs, 4-piston calipers
Rear Brake:
245mm hydraulic disc, 2-piston caliper
Wheel Type:
Cast aluminum alloy
Safety Features:
The manual will cover safety-related maintenance procedures and specifications crucial for optimal vehicle operation.
Braking System:
Dual front disc brakes and single rear disc brake provide effective stopping power. Optional ABS was available on some models/markets but not standard for 1998 FZS600.
Lighting:
Headlight, tail light, turn signals, and brake light systems for visibility and signaling.
Infotainment System:
Basic motorcycle technology for its era. Primarily focused on functional rider information displays: speedometer, tachometer, odometer, trip meter, and warning lights.
Assistance Systems:
No advanced electronic rider aids like traction control or multiple engine maps were present on this model. ABS was an optional feature in later iterations or specific market variants, not standard on the 1998 FZS600.
Connectivity:
No integrated connectivity features (e.g., Bluetooth, smartphone integration) typical of modern motorcycles.
First Service:
Typically around 600-1,000 miles (1,000-1,600 km) for initial engine break-in checks and adjustments.
Regular Service:
Intervals for oil changes, filter replacements, chain adjustments, and other routine checks are detailed in the manual, usually every 4,000-6,000 miles (6,000-10,000 km) or annually.
Valve Adjustment:
Valve clearance checks and adjustments are critical and typically recommended every 12,000-18,000 miles (20,000-30,000 km), detailed in the manual.
Engine Oil:
Yamaha recommends Yamalube 4-stroke motorcycle oil or equivalent API SG or higher, SAE 10W-40 viscosity grade. Check manual for specific ambient temperature operating ranges.
Engine Oil Capacity:
Approx. 3.4 liters (3.6 US qt) without filter change, 3.8 liters (4.0 US qt) with filter change. (Refer to manual for exact capacity).
Coolant:
Permanent type antifreeze coolant (ethylene glycol based) with distilled water, typically a 50/50 mix. Yamaha recommends Yamalube Coolant or equivalent.
Brake Fluid:
DOT 4 hydraulic brake fluid.
Fork Oil:
Yamaha recommended fork oil (e.g., SAE 10W) or equivalent. Specific quantity and level are detailed.
Chain Lube:
High-quality motorcycle chain lubricant.
Common Issues:
While generally reliable, common issues can include carburetor synchronization needing adjustment, stator failure (leading to charging issues), and potential wear on the cam chain tensioner over time. The manual will provide diagnostic and repair procedures for these and other potential concerns.
Spark Plugs:
Typical spark plug type: NGK CR9E or equivalent. Refer to manual for exact specifications and gap.
Oil Filter:
Genuine Yamaha part number: 5JX-13440-00-00 or equivalent aftermarket filter (e.g., KN-145).
Carburetor Sync:
Detailed procedure for synchronizing the four carburetors to ensure smooth engine operation and optimal performance.
Clutch Adjustment:
Procedure for adjusting clutch lever play and ensuring proper clutch engagement/disengagement.
Throttle Cable:
Adjustment of throttle cable free play for responsive throttle control.
Heritage:
Yamaha Motor Company, established in 1955, has a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality motorcycles across various segments, known for their innovation, performance, and reliability.
Evolution:
The FZS 600 was introduced in 1998 as a successor to models like the XJ600 Seca II, aiming to capture the popular middleweight naked/sport-touring market. It evolved into the FZS600S with a different fairing design in later years and was eventually replaced by the FZ6 Fazer.
Production Years:
1998 - 2003 (FZS600 model, followed by FZS600S)
Manufacturing Location:
Primarily manufactured in Japan.
