Honda XL 600 R vs Honda XL 600 R (reduced effect) (1987)

Side-by-side spec comparison, pricing, and a plain-English breakdown of how the Honda XL 600 Rstacks up against the Honda XL 600 R (reduced effect). Numbers pulled from manufacturer spec sheets — click either bike for the full review.

Spec comparison

SpecHonda XL 600 RHonda XL 600 R (reduced effect)
Model year19871987
Price
Engine589 cc589 cc
Horsepower44 hp27 hp
Fuel capacity3.2 L3.2 L
Fuel typepetrolpetrol
Transmission5-speed5-speed
Front brakesSingle discSingle disc
Rear brakesExpanding brakeExpanding brake
Tires3.00-21 / 5.10-17 3.00-21 / 5.10-17

Honda XL 600 R vs Honda XL 600 R (reduced effect) — which should you buy?

Picking between the Honda XL 600 R and the Honda XL 600 R (reduced effect) usually comes down to the numbers you care about most. On paper, the Honda XL 600 R brings 44 hp, while the Honda XL 600 R (reduced effect) counters with 27 hp.

Our spec tables above highlight the winning number on each line. For the full rider-focused reviews including real-world fuel economy, service costs and available colors, click into either bike: