2000 KAWASAKI ZZR600

599cc 182kg (dry) 100bhp 780mm seat height

Dealer price £2000-£3500 Private £800-£2500 This one £1500, private sale

An astonishingly long-lived sports-tourer capable of 160mph. Launched in 1990 and remaining in production until 2007. It was improved several times during its production, so the later the better. The slippery and protective fairing helps give astonishingly good fuel consumption for the performance: expect at least 50mpg and a 200-mile range. It’s surprisingly roomy and offers great comfort with a decent seat and well-placed pillion pegs.

Buyer beware

Mechanically they’re sound, but the suspension was a bit low-rent, even on later models. Bounce on the seat to check the rear damping and linkages. Really, you want to see an aftermarket shock there, especially if you’re riding two-up because the centre-stand (yes, it has one) can deck out unexpectedly otherwise.