1996 YZF 600 R

I had been looking at all the makes in the 600 bracket and was on the verge of buying the very popular Suzuki Bandit.. Found myself passing a local bike shop and called in for a browse. A friend had previously mentioned the 600 Thundercat but I had set my heart on the bandit. In the corner of the shop was a very smart blue sport style bike. On closer inspection it turned out to be a 1996 YZF 600 R in R1 blue. My jaw nearly hit the floor and fell in love immediately and knew I had to have it. The Bandit idea dissappeared instantly.. The bike was rolled outside and fired up. I couldnt believe how quiet the cat was compared to the bandit and idled like a Swiss Clock, not a bang, rattle or any other nasty noise could be heard.. Now 1 year on and to be honest she has been a revelation. Commuting, weekend tear ups with the boys (all on 1 litre bikes), 2 up days out.. Sounds kinda nice too with full race viper exhaust system now fitted.. She does the lot and comes back for more, starting first push of the button every time. I had planned to keep the bike for 12 months and then move on, but to be honest nothing I have seen has taken my eye and do prefer the 600s.. People suggested FZ6 but that has less power and to be honest nowhere near the presence of the cat.. The R6 appeals but hey not exactly built for comfort and is down on low and midrange grunt compared to the cat.. If you are looking for a do it all bike with comfort, reliability and plenty of useable power on a budget, then look no further than the cat.. Shes going to be in my garage a little while longer than I had expected. Only the desire to buy a newer model will see me part with the bike, and yes it will be another Yamaha..