Motorcycle History: Honda CBR600 Series

The Honda CBR600 series has been touted as one of the best sports motorcycles in the industry. In fact, the Honda CBR600RR (the racing version of Honda’s CBRFx series motorcycles) has won every Supersport World Championship title from 2002 to 2008. But how did it all start? Here is a brief history of the Honda CBR600 series and how it has evolved over the years.

1987 to 1990 CBR600

When it was first introduced, the CBR600 series featured a “jelly mold” fairing that concealed a steel frame, a 598cc inline-four with 16 valves and 70-80hp. The CBR had 37mm forks, 276mm front discs, and a 17-inch three-spoke front wheel, and had a top speed of nearly 150 mph. Changes to motorcycle parts in 1989 added a rebound adjustment on the damper, a modified fairing, and an adjustable reach brake lever.

1991 to 1994 CBR600

Now known as the “classic” CBR (the number of Honda OEM parts for these models says it all), from 1991 to 1994 the CBR added a new aesthetic that concealed a frame developed with reinforced engine mounts. The engine was now 599cc and produced around 85bhp with an actual top speed of 150mph. 1993 saw an increase to 41mm forks and a remote reservoir for the shock absorber with compression damping.

1995 to 1998 CBR600

Although a slightly softer aesthetic was introduced from 1995 to 1998, the “old school” CBR look was maintained during this time. The 1997 updates included a sleeker rear end, new lights, and an alloy grab bar. Under the “jelly mold”, a ram-air system, bigger carbs, a higher compression engine, and revised ignition were added. Wider motorcycle rear tires, revised suspension and larger diameter 296mm front discs were also added. The 600’s top speed was now about 155 mph.

1999 to 2000 CBR600

In 1999, the old steel frame was replaced by an allied beam frame, and new 43mm forks and updated brakes were also added. The engine featured a revised ram air intake and more clutch plates for lighter action, allowing the CBR600 to break through the 160 mph barrier. Additionally, a 180-section rear tire and bolt-on subframe hinted at race intentions in the World Supersport Championship.

2001 to 2006 CBR600

From 2001 to 2006, Honda gave the CBR a much sportier look, including the look of two headlights. A new fuel injection system was also added. The FS had a two-piece stacked seat, different cams and valves (for better stroke adjustment), a lighter flywheel, an additional clutch plate, and a black frame and swingarm. The FS (or F-Sport) was dropped from the line in 2003 with the arrival of the sharper “RR”, but the flexible and reliable “F” still has a place in the Honda range today.

2003 to 2004 CBR600RR

In 2003, the RR arrived on the scene with an all-new, rev-happy engine, “up-centered” under-seat exhaust, and updated fuel injection that brought top speeds to approximately 165 mph.

2005-2006 CBR600RR

Some subtle modifications to the bodywork make the bike look faster and help the efficiency of the ram-air system. Improved fuel injection, radially mounted brake caliper upstream shocks, and intake port changes give the bike more midrange, something notably absent in the RR3 and RR4 repertoires. The bike’s top speed is still around the 165 mph mark.

2007 and onwards … CBR600RR

The aesthetics of this bike are brand new as of 2007, as is the engine, which is lighter and more powerful than ever, in part due to dual sequential fuel injection. The new CBR is 22mm shorter than the previous model and now has Honda’s electronic steering damper installed. And although minimal changes have been made from one model to another, the overall style remains the same. Apparently, you don’t want to spoil a good thing. Still, the Honda CBR600 is continually modified and altered by riders who want to create something new and unique. To view the motorcycle parts and accessories available to modify your Honda CBR600, see Honda CBR600 Aftermarket Parts and Accessories.