For as long as I've been infatuated with cycles the R6 has been the bike of my dreams. I've ridden a couple other Yamahas and one Suzuki and while they were good bikes it was the R6 that drew me in.
I bought my 2002 R6 used in excellent condition for just under bluebook value. The bike itself has several mods done to it mostly for racing. Many of the optional carbon fibre pieces had been installed; the tires are Pilot street/race.
This bike is amazing; it's fast, it handles amazingly, it accelerates just as fast as any other bike out there and it looks great. The body on the '02 models are heavier looking than the later '03 and '04 models but if you are like me you prefer this look.
If you are in the market for a good used bike that has the same performance as a new model don't hesitate to look into an '02 R6 - you'll love what you'll get.