Honda have hit back hard with the track focused CBR600RR. They want their 600 crown back and after our first initial ride it seems they’ve done it. They’ve rectified the old motorcycle’s weak points, namely lack of midrange and weight. The Honda CBR600RR is now the lightest in the class, and has much more midrange and razor sharp handling.
Engine
The old Honda CBR600RR really lacked midrange between 7000rpm to 10,000rpm but the all-new 2007 model Honda CBR600RR has had an injection of midrange which makes it punchier. You really notice the extra drive out of slow to medium corners. At the top end Honda have only managed to strain a few more bhp, that should bring it up to speed with the competition.
Quality and Reliability
Hondas means quality and the older Honda CBR600RR seemed bullet proof. Even slightly tuned, poorly maintained race motors seem to last, even when they are thrashed week in and week out. We can’t see any reason why the new Honda CBR600RR should be any different.
Ride and Handling
Honda has shortened the wheelbase and tightened up the steering to make the Honda CBR600RR far sharper. Combine that with the reduction in weight and it all makes the new Honda CBR600RR a formidable track tool. It steers so well, you can really flick the motorcycle around and there so much feedback from the front tyre you can carry loads of brake into the turn.
Value
At just under over an estimated £7,500 the new Honda CBR600RR is not a cheap motorcycle. Suzuki’s GSX-R600, for example, is considerably cheaper. But out of all the 600cc supersports motorcycles the Honda CBR600RR always seems to hold its money and due to the high standard of components and general build quality. The Honda CBR600RR will still look like new in a few years time and should make it far easier to resell,
Equipment
The Honda CBR600RR's MotoGP styling is sleek in the flesh and typical Honda build quality runs all the way through. The suspension is fully adjustable front and rear and you can feel every half turn or click. Unfortunately you don’t get a slipper clutch as standard on the Honda CBR600RR, unlike its Japanese competition.
Specifications
| Top speed | 165mph |
| 1/4-mile acceleration | 11.1 secs |
| Power | 118bhp |
| Torque | 48.7ftlb |
| Weight | 186kg |
| Seat height | 820mm |
| Fuel capacity | 18 litres |
| Average fuel consumption | 40mpg |
| Tank range | 150 miles |
| Insurance group | 15 |
| Engine size | 599cc |
| Engine specification | 16v liquid cooled four cylinder, fuel injected, 6 gears |
| Frame | Twin spar aluminium |
| Front suspension adjustment | Preload, compression, rebound |
| Rear suspension adjustment | Preload, compression, rebound |
| Front brakes | 2 x 310mm radial four pot |
| Rear brake | 220mm disc single pot |
| Front tyre size | 120/70 x 17 |
| Rear tyre size | 180/55 x 17 |
