Description
XL600R
Single cylinder ‘thumper‘
589cc engine, 45bhp
High level exhaust
Wire wheels
A true Honda classic. There’s a reason the XL 600R continues to have a hugely loyal following. Tough, purposeful, tried & tested. A torquey air-cooled single-cylinder engine, rugged steel frame, and long-travel suspension. Road-legal lighting makes it good for everyday riding.
In an age of techno-wizardry, the XL stands out as an uncomplicated bike that’s ready for any adventure you can throw its way.
If the XL 600R looks familiar it’s because Honda trusts these machines. Starting with the XR350 and XR500, the family grew into this four-stroke single XL 600R.
The XL 600R is in an easier state of tune, with lower compression ratio and bigger muffler, but by increasing displacement the 600 gets increased oomph up to 45bhp.
Honda designers prefer simplicity as a route to success. The XL 600 has just one balance shaft. A full cradle frame and dry sump, which lower the engine with a 21-inch front wheel. Honda launched other new developments like the radial valve head and compound ‘twin’ carbs.
The biggest development is a decompression chamber. Survivors of big singles know all about kicking and being kicked by big singles. Once you get the sequence, this one is straightforward to get going.
Dual piston single front brake caliper and Pro-Link rear suspension. Up front are 39mm Showa forks. The rear suspension has settings for rebound damping and a useful range of spring pre-load
The headlight has a halogen bulb, bright enough for night riding, just.
These are quick bikes. At 300lb the XL is lardy for a dirt bike. But 300lb is light for a 45bhp motorcycle.
The XL will keep up and outpace many period road twins. A quarter mile in 13 seconds is lively. Don’t try it today, but the XL was a 100-mph bike. Don’t try this at home kids! And it is good for 60mpg.
It is an Italian import. That speaks volumes to the condition you can see. The first time it went for an MOT, it passed. In fact, that is the case for every MOT. Since 2014 Honda has covered about 1, 200km. Recent service and fitted a lithium-ion battery for reliability.
Summary
A terrific, useable bike, ready to jump on and ride and reserved very sensibly.
These don’t come up that frequently. Do any research and you’ll quickly see the cult status they have. There is a reason for that. Whether it is some mild green-laneing, real off-road adventures, or just a weekend away, it will do it all, including embarrassing much bigger modern bikes on tarmac. A universal bike that will make you grin from ear-to-ear.
Visit us today and take it for a test drive. 12 months MOT. 3 months extendable Warranty. UK Delivery, part exchange welcomed. WHY BUY FROM US? Hand-picked cars from private sources, prepared to a very high standard. All cars indoors, friendly buying experience, No hard sells or admin fees, Five-star customer reviews on Google and Facebook. All dealer facilities offered including nationwide delivery & part exchange