Whats this bike really worth?

for CA I would pay no more than 3500. and that is only because of the "Brand new tires", and i also like what he did with the rims. Without that, I would pay no more than 3250. Even then, only if it is as clean as he says. NADA says avg price sold at is 3500, so that 4500 price is such a joke.

I sold an 03 R6 (with fuel injection, the 02 has carbs) 3 years ago for $4000 with 5k miles. I would honestly say that it is worth around $3k

2004 Yamaha YZFR6S/C YZF-R6 - 600cc Standard Equipment, Prices & Specs - NADAguides

2004 r6 avg selling price: 3750

I would spend 4k if it was very clean. I don't think he'll have problems with that budget, just know how to haggle, or be patient for the right deal to come along.

I wouldn't spend more than $3.5k for the 02 with 12k miles on it.

^either he doesn't know much about his r6, or he is a liar using false advertising. That is an 03, (at least the plastics are). Either way, be wary of seller.

Good catch. Only other option is he swapped out all the fairings and gas tank for the 03 color scheme, which he would probably only do after trashing his own plastics in a crash...