Honda CBR 600 RR review and specifications

The Honda CBR600RR motorcycle is a return to the roots. When releasing the previous line of sports 600s, Honda deviated slightly towards comfort, and, obviously, decided to correct itself. The new 600RR is a truly radical sportbike without flirting with the sport-tourer class, angry, powerful and uncompromising. Its technical characteristics allow it to easily dominate on any road, provided it has good asphalt and an experienced pilot.

Design

The sly squint of the double headlight - Honda racing motorcycles. The designers of the Japanese company do not hesitate to exploit this recognizable image, and this is only for the better! How many motorcyclists have fallen madly in love with the 600PP at first sight precisely because of its appearance? How many Chinese companies produce their “copies” that imitate the design of this bike? But he doesn’t care, because a fake will never become an original, and such popularity is just another evidence of popularity.

What do the owners say?

There are often rave reviews about this motorcycle. This is understandable: at a low cost, the motorcycle produces good performance in terms of power, torque, and their derivatives. Many people prefer to buy this model over other, albeit more advanced, sportbikes.

The landing pleases many owners. At low speeds the equipment drives well, including uphill. However, some compare this type of riding to riding a moped. There is some truth in this, because a sportbike is initially purchased for completely different purposes. It cannot please at low speeds either with its dynamics or landing.

IMPORTANT! The car has been in production since 2003, which means that production may soon cease. Rarely does the production of such equipment continue for several decades. It is worth keeping this in mind, because five years after production is completed, problems with maintenance may begin due to the inaccessibility of spare parts.

According to the description of those who have been driving this motorcycle for a long time, it has proven to be reliable. But, like any other sportbike, it does not tolerate unintended operating conditions, for example, riding on some rough terrain. This is usually not mentioned in this or that review, since it is a known and undeniable fact.

The CBR 600 RR is a worthy representative of its class. The price-quality ratio is optimal. Some will even consider this bike too cheap. Perhaps someday there will be many bikes about which it will be possible to say the same thing. But so far there are only a few of them.

Specifications

Beginners should give this motorcycle a tenth of a ride until they gain enough experience to handle it. The Honda CBR600RR has characteristics that fully correspond to the title of a sportbike . This model was developed on the basis of a purely racing RC211V, which was simply adapted for public roads. Hence the explosive nature and all other features characteristic of specialized equipment designed for the track, and not for city streets.

Engine

Despite all the improvements and changes, from an operational point of view, the Honda CBR 600RR engine has remained virtually unchanged over the years. It's the same 4-cylinder, 4-valve, liquid-cooled engine , which comes to life and begins to show its character at about 7,000 rpm . After this mark, it has no dips or pick-ups; the torque curve on the graph clearly demonstrates this. Power ranges from 117 to 120 hp. , torque reaches 66 Nm , and top speed is 256 km/h . The bike accelerates to 100 km/h in 3.16 seconds.

Transmission

Traditionally, Honda has a perfectly functioning gearbox that never has any problems. Already on the third, the bike is capable of accelerating to 150+ km/h, although, of course, you should not abuse the power. You can switch to the top gear, sixth, when the number “100” appears on the speedometer, and then drive like an automatic transmission. Although for sharp overtaking you can drop a few gears.

Chassis and brakes

The lightweight and durable aluminum frame has already been changed three times, but the overall geometry of the sportbike has remained almost unchanged. The brakes, as with all CBR motorcycles in the line, deserve exceptional praise; there are 4-piston calipers with 310 mm discs at the front, and a single 1-piston caliper with a 220 mm disc at the rear. Since 2009, a combined braking system with ABS .

Electronics

Auxiliary systems and other electronic stuffing went mainly to the “liter”, but the “six hundred” in this regard is almost no different from the CBR F4i. This is for the best - the predecessor of this model was famous for its reliability, so complicating the design could have a negative impact on it. But it is worth considering that the electrical wiring is not reliably protected from water entering under pressure. The motorcycle is not afraid of rain and puddles, but you need to wash it with some kind of Karcher with care so as not to spill anything on it.

Weight and dimensions

Compact dimensions (wheelbase length - from 1370 to 1395 mm) combined with a dry weight from 186 to 199 kg, depending on the year of manufacture, make the Honda CBR600RR a fairly light motorcycle. The seat height is also low, only 820 mm, so most motorcyclists can confidently touch the ground with their feet. And the width at the extreme points does not even reach 700 mm, thanks to which the sportbike freely filters between cars in traffic jams.

Controllability

The combination of modest weight, short wheelbase and low fork angle make this model excellent handling. She is not afraid of sharp maneuvers or taking long turns at high speed, and never loses touch with the road, if, of course, you fork out for good tires. But you need to hold the clip-ons confidently, since hitting a road bump in some cases can lead to wobbling.

Fuel consumption

According to Honda, on average the SBR600RR consumes about 5.5 liters per 100 km . This seems to be true, and in the combined cycle the consumption remains moderate. But if you “ drive with all your money ,” it will increase, and can reach 10 liters per 100 km at maximum speeds.
However, how often do you see straight roads 100 km long on which you can maintain a speed of 250 km/h for a long time?

Competitors

In addition to the already mentioned Yamaxa R6 , comfortable only for tall pilots.

The developers also mention Ninja ZX-6R , as well as Suzuki's GSX-R 600 . In terms of comfortable fit, they are no different from Honda.

Managers admitted that competitors have slightly better acceleration characteristics, but clarify that not one of them turns so well . Thanks to the later release, all the disadvantages were studied on competitors.

Motorcycle price

The cost of used first-generation copies starts at 220-230 thousand rubles , but most of the cheapest options turn out to have a whole bunch of problems, from a knocking engine to dubious documents. A bike in “live” condition will cost 250-280 thousand rubles , at least. And the fresher it is, the more expensive it is - a Honda CBR600RR motorcycle from 2017-2018 can easily cost 750-800 thousand rubles . A completely new copy in a dealer showroom costs about a million .

Flaws

After the developers’ statement that they studied all the problems of the class on competitors’ models, you don’t expect any problems from the bike. But Honda distinguished itself with this model.

Each user notes the high cost of branded consumables: “ It’s not a problem to get them, but they are expensive .”

Advantages

There are many more advantages:

• power;
• convenience for the city;
• possibility of registration with the traffic police;
• large trunk;
• heated handles (out of the box);
• strong brakes.

Repair and tuning

Modern motorcycle technology is a delicate thing, and you shouldn’t get into it with your own hands, unless, of course, you are sure of what you are doing. Otherwise, it is better to entrust the matter to professional motorcycle mechanics, since unqualified intervention in the operation of the motor and auxiliary systems can lead to problems.

Repair

From a technical point of view, you can repair the Honda CBR600RR yourself, but this depends on the specific breakdown. It is better to replace some components entirely, or take the bike to a trusted motorcycle service center. A miser pays twice, and at a speed of 200 km/h, the cost of a mistake can be your life.

Spare parts

From official dealers you can buy (or, in extreme cases, order) anything, from plastic to a new engine. The prices are quite high, so third-party manufacturers will come to the rescue. In China, the production of complete sets of plastic of various qualities has long been established, and many consumables and parts are produced in the USA and Europe.

Tuning

Most often, owners change lighting equipment by installing more efficient headlights. Long-distance riders and tall pilots sometimes consider taller windshields, while racetrack enthusiasts often shell out for increased traction. But a sportbike is not a cruiser, and there is much less external tuning such as a body kit in this class, and what is available costs moderate money.

Price

Should you keep your racing dream within the realm of fantasy or make it come true? The answer often depends on price. Depending on the moment of release, the condition of the bike and the seller, the price may vary. For example, a new six hundredth supersport from an official dealer costs about 900 thousand rubles. The regular version with combined ABS costs about the same.

On the secondary market, prices start from 200 thousand rubles; in good condition, you can buy equipment produced in 2003 with documents for 300 thousand rubles.

When choosing a used sportbike, you want the mileage not to be covered on Russian roads, and that all components are suitable for safe riding. For reality to coincide with expectations, it is worth discovering the Japanese motor market. You can see prices at a Japanese motorcycle auction for this model here.

It is enough to study a few lots to make sure that your dream can materialize.

Motorcycle modifications

Over the years of production, the sportbike has undergone a number of changes. Here are the main ones:

• Honda CBR600RR 2003 . Start of production and sales. The following year there were no noticeable changes, only various little things like changed numbers of some spare parts. Structurally, the Honda CBR600RR 2004 and 2003 model years do not differ in any way, as can be clearly seen from the photo.
• Honda CBR600RR 2005 . Release of the second generation. The motorcycle received an updated frame, swingarm, as well as improved suspension and brakes, while losing 10 kg of weight.
• Honda CBR600RR 2007 . The third generation, which came with a new engine. Power, however, increased by only 1 hp, but the bike received an electronic steering damper, and overall began to handle noticeably better thanks to the reduced wheelbase.
• Honda CBR600RR 2008 . The production of the third generation continued, but the available color range was significantly expanded.
• Honda CBR600RR 2009 . The engine was slightly improved, adding a couple of “horses”, and the installation of an ABS system, working in conjunction with combined brakes, began.
• 2013 - Production of the fourth generation began, and the design was noticeably redesigned. The suspension has been heavily modified. Since then, there have been no noticeable changes until 2021, so we can expect the fifth generation to be released soon.

History of changes

The Honda 600cc received its first modernization 2 years after the start of production - in 2005. The appearance has changed, the geometry of the aluminum frame, the front and rear brake calipers have become radial. The front fork and rear suspension have new geometry and a full range of adjustments. The Honda CBR600RR has become 4 kg lighter, and the engine has increased traction at mid-speed.

In 2007, engineers developed a new Honda 600 motorcycle engine, significantly lighter and more compact. The frame was narrowed a little, and the weight was also reduced by 9 kg. The appearance and aerodynamics have been improved again. The steering wheel began to be equipped with an electronically controlled damper.

Since 2009, the developers, by modernizing the pistons, cylinder block and exhaust system, have increased traction at high speeds, and began to offer the installation of ABS as an option.

In 2013, tuning of the wheel rims took place. The new engine control program allowed it to produce even more thrust. The front fork was replaced with a new Showa, the rear suspension of the Honda SBR 600rr received updated settings.

Honda CBR600RR, Honda 600cc

Advantages and disadvantages

Honda has been producing sports motorcycles for half a century, and has vast experience in this area. Knowing full well that the perfect balance in everything is unattainable at once, they focused on making the SBR600RR as close as possible to professional racing motorcycles. And they succeeded.

Advantages

• Crazy dynamics , just over 3 seconds to 100 km/h! The maximum speed exceeds 250 km/h.
• Modest fuel consumption . On the track it rises sharply, but during quiet driving it hovers around the 6l/100 km mark.
• Spacious 18-liter gas tank . When driving on the highway at a speed of 130-150 km/h, the range reaches almost 300 km/h.
• Excellent wind protection . If you lie on the tank, the headwind will not bother you even at speeds over 200 km/h.
• Excellent suspension with adjustments . This is doubly true for generations 3 and 4.

Flaws

• Uncomfortable seating position for tall riders. The ergonomics are well thought out, but the Honda CBR 600 is simply small in size.
• Weak standard light . On unlit roads it is objectively not enough.
• Lack of ABS on early copies.
• The sensitivity of the engine to oil starvation, which can very quickly damage it.
• Problem with the timing tensioner on the first two generations. The problem is eliminated once and for all by replacing it with an analogue from the fourth generation.

Appearance

The Honda CBR 600 RR has a design characteristic of the series: angular but smoothed shapes indicate a combination of fashions of the past and present centuries, and the characteristic large mirrors do not allow the series to be confused with something else. The headlights, of which there are two, look like the eyes of some kind of alien predator, which gives the model a sporty aggressiveness.

If you want to take a beautiful photo with a motorcycle, it is hardly possible to imagine a better option than this. The flashy, pretentious shape of the car speaks volumes about the complex nature of this model. The rims are elegant, but not particularly noticeable.

Owner reviews

The motorcycle is very vicious, I categorically do not advise beginners or simply inexperienced riders to ride it! It takes off from a standstill like a rocket, and gets on the rear wheel in second or third easily. The brakes help out, especially with combination brakes and ABS, but they are absent on the first generations. I switched from a 400cc Seabihi, the first season I drove like a pensioner, it was just scary. It’s for the best, probably, the Honda SBR 600 RR is a technique for the experienced, or for the completely frostbitten. Arthur, Rostov-on-Don.

I really like the engine, of course there is no low end, but after picking up at 7000 rpm, the acceleration is smooth, without failures, not like on Erks from Yamaha. It steers great, the brakes are 5+. The downside is that the standard light sucks, you have to install xenon, but they can deprive you of your license for it. Well, if you are tall (190+ cm), sitting for a long time is not very comfortable; you have to shrink and lie down on the tank so as not to blow away; your arms and back quickly become numb. And you need to be more careful at the car wash; water under pressure can get into the cracks under the seat and between the plastic and flood the contacts, then you’ll have to take everything apart and dry it. All of the above is relevant for the Honda CBR 600 RR 2004; it may be different on more recent models, there have been many changes. Alexander, Moscow

My experience is negative, but what is it? I took a 2006 CBR600 with 18k mileage on the odometer, I drove about 2k when the engine started knocking. I had heard a lot about the birth problem with the timing belt tensioner, but that wasn’t the issue; when the engine was disassembled, it turned out that the CPG was already running out. Apparently, the previous owner did not leave the track, or drove constantly, but the engine was already on its last legs, so I had to cheat it and sell it urgently. Evgeniy, Tyumen.

Performance evaluation of the Honda CBR 600

The Honda CBR600RR review starts with the exterior. The motorcycle evokes admiration for its carefully crafted exterior, filigree design lines and functionality of appearance elements.

But the main strengths of the Honda CBR600RR as a motorcycle lie on the inside. The creators tried to distinguish it from its competitors with its ability to quickly accelerate and stop just as quickly, maintain directional stability at maximum speeds and behave predictably in extreme conditions. They always try to emphasize its speed and technical characteristics in photos and videos.

Those who are choosing a supersport motorcycle for the first time should know a certain ergonomic feature: machines of the 600 cm³ class will only be comfortable for people with a height of no higher than 175 cm. This is a feature not only of the Honda CBR 600RR, but also of all devices in this class. Taller riders should look for a higher-end bike.

2003 models were only available in 2 color schemes. In 2004, they were expanded to 4, and in 2013 – to 6. Separately, it is worth mentioning the Honda CBR600RR Limited Edition package, released in limited edition in 2010. The motorcycle's livery features black and white graphics and a stylized female face on the sides.

Honda CBR600RR Limited Edition, Honda CBR 600 RR photo

Concluding the review of the Honda cbr600rr, it is necessary to note the highest quality of the motorcycle. Japanese-made equipment has always shone with reliability, excellent level of assembly and durability. But even among its Japanese competitors, Honda stood out favorably with engines and gearboxes. This is confirmed by both sporting successes and popularity among buyers.

Honda CBR600RR Limited Edition

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Similar models

• Yamaha YZF-R6 . A world-famous racing bike that enjoys a unique reputation due to the explosive nature and “twitchy” nature of the engine.
• Kawasaki ZX-6R . It has been produced for a long time, so only those generations that were produced simultaneously with it can compete with the hero of our review.
• Suzuki GSX-R600. Direct competitor to all of the above models.

Honda CBR600F design

The first three generations (~ 12 years) the model was assembled on a tubular steel frame.

The photo shows a 1994 Honda CBR600 F2 (2nd generation) on a steel frame with a square headlight.

A double pipe was used to strengthen the structure. In 1999 the material changes to aluminum . The design is the same - tubular. Only the new model, launched after the break, began to receive a cast frame.

• Rear suspension was produced according to the standard principle - mono shock absorber + swingarm. Over 18 years, the working progress has increased from 110 to 120 mm.

  The latest generation rear suspension is based on an aluminum Dual Box swingarm paired with a Monoshock shock absorber.

• The front has changed from generation to generation. During evolution, the diameter of the fork feathers increased by 5 mm, before 43 mm on the fourth generation. The first versions were equipped with a standard version. Starting from the third generation, since 1995, Honda’s own design appeared on the motorcycle - a fork HMAS. The changeling appeared only in the latest versions based on the road-going Hornet. During production, the ability to adjust the suspension on your own also underwent changes from zero on the first generations to full on the fourth and fifth.

  The front fork absorbs road imperfections well and provides the right level of kickback for safe cornering.

It’s interesting that when production was resumed, the suspension was cut in all respects. The diameter of the feathers became smaller, adjustments were reduced to a minimum, and the working stroke of the shock absorbers also became smaller.

As part of the new generations, the motorcycle received various goodies and additions, the most important of which was the replacement of the carburetor with an injector in the latest, fifth version

Exterior

Despite its sporting purpose, the motorcycle is quite comfortable to drive, and a full set of optics, mirrors, space for a second number plate and even a small offset sufficient for installing a trunk allows it to be used as a sports tourer.

Left view.

Right view.

An additional advantage is the presence of a PTS, and therefore the ability to register, which will allow it to be used on additional roads.

Front end

• It is quite easy to distinguish a Hurricane from a Hornet - by the headlight. The most popular, fifth generation ( 2001–2006) has a claim to "fox eyes" The tourist has one irregularly shaped headlight. The first versions of the bike also had one headlight, but in a square design.

  Honda CBR600F Hurricane with two headlights.

  Honda CBR600F Hornet with one headlight.

• Fox eyes, rather a prop, are clearly visible behind their glasses round reflector of a regular lamp. They turn on as standard, for the near one one eye, for the far one - both. The headlights are inserted into a large body kit, the top of which is crowned by the windshield. But it is small, designed for a sporty fit. When sitting according to the classics, it is not enough.

  A distinctive feature of all Honda CBR600F models is a full aerodynamic body kit.

• The mirrors are large and square in shape . They are the most protruding part, so be careful when traveling in traffic. Although they are located high, the overall low stance of the bike lowers them to the level of the “ears” of passenger cars. The developers deviated from the standards in the design. The mounts are not on the body kit, as is customary with Honda, but on the steering wheel. This expands the customization options, allowing the rider to turn them so that they can see the road situation, and not their limbs.
• The turn signals are traditional - yellow “candles” on stands attached to the side edges of the body kit . They are located quite low, at the level of the lower part of the body kit. The latter descends almost to the wing, the technological opening for air intake is minimal. The wing itself also changed during evolution until it took on a non-standard, stepped (when viewed from the front) appearance. The main part is pressed tightly against the tire, the steps on the sides are a kind of covers for the fork legs.

Dashboard

The modern design of the “tidy” allows you to literally control the speed and number of revolutions at a glance.

The main data is presented here in two blocks. Pointer tachometer (marked up to 17 , red at 14.5 , recommended at 12 ) x1000 . It has a built-in temperature indicator. The second block is a large LCD screen.

After a standard startup check it displays:

• clock and indicators for oil availability and engine temperature (the latter with a pair of icons);
• fuel indicator and speed (standard – bar and numbers);
• trip 1, trip 2 - the last few mileage readings (adjustable using the buttons to the left of the screen).

While driving, the display shows information about current and average fuel consumption.

The same block includes other indicators, made in one line. Among them:

• turn indicators;
• neutral;
• turning on the high beam;
• self-diagnosis lamp;
• An interesting feature is the presence of a blinker (a blinker indicating that the speed limit for Japan has been exceeded) - the model was not officially sold in Japan.

The ignition key is slightly lower, the well is covered with a curtain.

The ignition key can be removed from the lock in the OFF or LOCK position.

According to user reviews, the devices are more than sufficient; the main data (speed/rpm) can be caught at a glance . When errors occur, the indicators light up very brightly, and the self-diagnosis light (labeled F1) indicates by the number of blinks where to look for the problem.

Back view

The optics are presented in a complete set. The same turn signal bulbs as the front and brake lights in the same housing with dimensions.

Rear optics.

Exhaust system muffler.

• The bike's saddle has also gone through some evolutionary path from common for two passengers to separate perches. Both options found their use in 2001.
• Models of recent years have one saddle, which is clearly divided into two parts. Due to their specific tilt, the second number can look over the driver’s head.

Gas tank

There is a keyhole hidden under the flap on the neck of the gas tank; the key is the same as for the ignition switch.

The gas tank is large, holds 18 liters . (latest editions). Located in a standard place, but the design is not very convenient. Due to the pronounced angle near the driver, sitting in a sporty style can be a problem for tall motorcyclists.

FAQ

• Is there a noticeable difference compared to the F4i? This is subjective, but in general yes. The F4i has a noticeably more flexible character.
• Is this bike worth getting, or is it better to save up for a liter CBR? If we talk about power, then even the “six hundred” has enough power. But the “liter”, oddly enough, is more smooth, especially at low speeds.
• Is it expensive to maintain? Depends on operating conditions. Riding in normal city mode is one thing, but racing on a track, subjecting the motorcycle to extreme loads, is quite another.

Comfort

The main thing is not to start with such a machine. Well, if a person understands that he is already ready for such a zealous steel horse, well, the bike will certainly be comfortable. A fast and maneuverable car is able to brake in time. The landing is sporty, in the “fetal position”. This helps reduce the load on the spinal column from surface unevenness. With a direct landing, this load is greater.

This is not to say that riding with a passenger is unthinkable. However, it is impossible to call it comfortable. The turbulence of exhaust gases will not allow a person to feel comfortable as a passenger. But this should not be considered a disadvantage of the bike; this is not some kind of sport-tourer, but a very ordinary sports motorcycle.

Conclusion

A true sports bike is built for speed and adrenaline, not comfort. The Honda CBR 600 can hardly be called comfortable, but its appeal lies elsewhere. The combination of enormous power, furious acceleration dynamics, grippy brakes and excellent handling captivates many bikers, and they can be understood. Most racing cars, even ultra-expensive supercars, cannot match this motorcycle for the amount of adrenaline it can give its owner.

Specifications

Maximum engine power:	120 HP
Working volume:	599 cm3
Motor type (cylinder arrangement, number of strokes):	4-stroke, 4-cylinder, 16-valve, DOHC
Number of cylinders:	4
Number of valves:
Intake type (Injector / Carburetor):
Bore and stroke:
Starting system (Electric starter, kick starter):
Maximum speed in km/h:	256 km/h
Cooling system:	Liquid cooling fan
Transmission (gearbox):	6
Clutch (Dry / Wet):
Drive unit:	Chain
Frame:	Aluminum twin-spar, box-section
Chassis
Suspension (front/rear travel):
Brakes (Front/Rear):
Wheels / Tires / Rubber:
Dimensions and weight
Dimensions (Length / Width):
Seat height:
Ground clearance:
Curb weight:
Wheelbase:	from 1370 to 1395 mm
Weight:	from 186 to 199 kg
Fuel tank capacity:	18 l.
Battery capacity:
Year of release:
Country of Origin:

"Asymmetrical response." Review of the motorcycle Honda CBR600RR, 2007

Honda held a presentation of the updated version of the top-end sportbike CBR600 ahead of all showroom premieres. In order to dominate the most important segment of the 600 market, we have to stay ahead of the curve.

Usually, on the eve of the autumn European motorcycle exhibitions, there is a shortage of objective information in the press and on specialized websites. The companies, as if by agreement, flatly refuse to comment on journalists’ assumptions about the debut of this or that model. Leaks, if they occur, are only planned, and, as a rule, they are designed to put the public on the wrong trail. This is understandable. The more unexpected the presentation at the salon, the greater the chance of hooking the consumer. No sensations were expected from Honda this year.

Last fall, the company thoroughly shot back, and, considering that the period before the next restyling is now two to three years, the 2007 model year for Honda did not promise any shocks. Well, the colors will be changed, the exhaust systems will be remade for Euro 3, a couple of new nuts will be screwed on. And suddenly journalists receive an official press release for the 2007 CBR600RR. Shock! It's Japanese! But the casket just opens. A year ago, Honda's main competitor, Yamaha, released the new generation YZF-R6, which immediately pushed the current CBR600 into the far corner.

It is clear that Honda could not come to terms with this (after all, it is called the No. 1 motorcycle concern in the world) and forced events - it gave the green light for the production of a radically redesigned sports “600”. There was little time - you couldn’t do everything. That is why there are no radical changes in design. Only the bottom of the fairing is reminiscent of the formidable features of its older brother - the liter Fireblade sportsbike, and the predatory air intake between the headlights indicates that the rookie does not intend to lose seconds in high-speed races with competitors. The inertial supercharging system is not an empty phrase here. The designers managed to endow this “six hundred” with the character of a “liter”. The CBR600RR won't run out of steam at high speeds, and 280km/h is now within reach. It should be noted that in such extreme conditions the engine does not give up, but seems to turn on a second wind. The competitor YZF-R6 flaunts 130 forces, but the new Honda has only 120. Is this the short-sightedness of the developers or a deliberate play for the downside? The latter is more likely. The press release repeatedly repeats the phrase “we wanted to make the motorcycle more rider-friendly.”

So, we can assume that the arms race (read: the race for power indicators) is coming to naught. Manufacturers have finally remembered the pressing operational problems and are no longer striving to inflate the characteristics to prohibitive values. But you are welcome to use 100 percent of what you already have. It is on this principle that the new CBR600RR is tailored. Consumer qualities are at the forefront. The power unit has been redesigned to make its characteristics smoother and improve operational capabilities.

Since 600 motors, as a rule, operate at extreme conditions, the designers paid great attention to resistance to overheating. The cooling system has been radically redesigned, and the piston heads are cooled by oil nozzles. The intake and exhaust systems have been optimized, many of the parts of these units are completely new. Thus, the CBR is equipped with single valve springs at the exhaust (double valve springs remain at the intake), a lightweight and smaller clutch, a lightweight generator, completely new pistons (the design of the connecting rods is also completely different), a magnesium cylinder head cover, and a modified gearbox with a shortened crankcase. The exhaust system, although outwardly reminiscent of the previous one, is, according to the designers, made from scratch.

One of the innovations here is a built-in valve in the style of EXUP from Yamaha. As a result, the engine characteristics became more even, without dips at the bottom and without sudden surges at the top. By the way, these same tops were increased only thanks to the inertial supercharging system. The injection system has been redesigned with two injectors per cylinder and an additional damper in the airbox. So the connection between the throttle handle and the dampers is ideal. The fairing makes it difficult to understand how much the frame design has changed. The press release claims that it was made using new casting technology, which made it possible to lose more than one kilogram of weight.

In total, fitness classes led to the loss of almost ten kilograms! However, Honda’s “trick” regarding the friendliness of the new CBR600RR does not, of course, refer to the improvements listed above. First of all, the newcomer is distinguished by ergonomics that are completely unconventional for 600 cc sportbikes. The handlebars are raised by 10 mm, the footpegs are slightly shifted forward. What does this mean? There is no more fetal position with heavy use of the hands. The landing has become almost classic, which means better control over the road and ease of landing. On such a sportbike you can fly to the south and back in one fell swoop! The standard electronic steering damper also hints at the fact that the car will now be easier to drive than its predecessor.

Yes, yes, the same HESD that has been adorning the CBR1000RR Fireblade for a couple of years now. Of course, it had to be modified a little so that it would not interfere with steering so much. The designers claim that its work is “transparent”. Well, let's take his word for it. The wheelbase was reduced by 15 mm - this is evidence that the developers not only talked about better handling, but also achieved it. What did we get in the end? An elegant, fast and technically sophisticated sportbike. Yes, in terms of basic parameters it is inferior to its main competitor, the R6, and, at first glance, Honda was a little hasty with its debut. But do numbers alone decide the fate of a car? For many consumers, the difference of a couple of “horses” and kilograms is insignificant, but handling and a sense of control over the car, on the contrary, are paramount. So there's no reason to say that Honda is in trouble with the CBR. Such motorcycles are not made off the shelf.

Specifications.