Honda CBR600RR:
Born on the racetrack. Brought to life on the road, it’s the return of an Icon
In 2024, we will see the triumphant return of one of motorcycling’s best-loved and most successful supersports bikes, the CBR600RR. No review of this iconic model would be complete without first acknowledging its phenomenal success.
The CBR600RR won no less than nine FIM World Super Sports Championships and 13 All-Japan Road Race Championships in the ST600 class. If that isn’t impressive enough, CBR600RR engines were used in the Moto 2 Intermediate World Championships from 2010-2018. This series saw a jaw-dropping two million race kilometres clocked up using this model’s bulletproof engines. Like all champions, though, the Honda CBR600RR hit rocky ground.
In 2017, a surge in demand for naked street and adventure bikes saw the CBR600RR withdrawn from sale. This decision left a gaping hole in European showrooms. It wasn't until rider interest returned to the supersport street bike category that the time came for the king of the middleweights to reclaim its crown.
The 2024 CBR600RR is the purest of all road-legal sports bikes. It features cutting-edge MotoGP-inspired aerodynamics and electronics. Carving lines through country lanes or closed circuits, the free-revving engine and the premium chassis of the new CBR600RR are second to none.
But what can Honda riders expect from this reborn superstar? First, the 599 cc, 16-valve, four-cylinder engine pumps out a staggering 119 bhp at 14,250 rpm. A formidable maximum torque of 61 ft. lb is available at 11,500 rpm. Also, the upgraded camshafts, valve springs and crank can handle added stress from higher revs.
MotoGP Technology for the Road
The electronics package on the CBR600RR is bristling with MotoGP technology, helping the rider make the most of every ounce of power. Meanwhile, 9-level Honda Selectable Torque Control joins the throttle-by-wire control system.
Three default riding modes can also be customised for power, engine braking, HSTC and wheelie control. Rear lift control is another first for the bike.
A slipper/assist clutch also makes its debut and a quick-shifter is standard. This combination of cutting-edge rider aids means powering off the line keeps all the focus on forward motion without the drama.
Every aspect of the chassis, from the twin-spar aluminium frame to the multi-adjustable Showa front and rear suspension, is premium quality.
Sprung and unsprung weight are pared down to almost racetrack standards. Meanwhile, the ECU-controlled Honda Electronic Steering Damper allows movement at low speeds, increasing damping force as speed builds.
For many Honda sports bike fans, the withdrawal of the original CBR600RR came as a bitter blow. However, 2024 will see the triumphant return of a race bike with impeccable road manners, which is well worth the wait.
The CBR500R: Racing DNA Inside
If you had to sum up the revamped Honda CBR500R, it would be fast, frugal and fun. The 2024YM takes pride of place amongst the other two members of the 500cc family, the CB500 Hornet and adventure styled NX500.
All three models are diverse yet use the same engine and chassis as a base, a testament to Honda’s unique approach to design and engineering.
The model’s most recent update in 2022 included high-quality 41mm SFF-BP inverted forks paired with radial-mounted calipers biting on twin discs. The set-up is a lift from the company’s barnstorming CBR650R.
Together with a new lightweight swinging arm and wheels, the top-shelf components show that Honda is serious about their A2 license-friendly race replica.
The CBR500R’s chassis components received positive comments from both owners and the media. So many, in fact, that the factory decided to reuse the formula for the 24YM.
The same applies to the engine. Pushing the envelope for A2 compliance, the 471cc power plant’s 8-valve twin-cylinder layout pumps out an exhilarating 47 bhp. An impressive 31.7 ft-lb of torque produces plenty of bottom-end shove while providing a pleasing top-end rush.
Using Every Ounce of Power
Honda’s hands may be tied in increasing horsepower but that hasn’t stopped the design team from making the engine even more fun. The ECU and fuel injection system updates improve low rpm acceleration and power delivery across the range. The slipper/assist clutch gives slicker up-shifts while combating wheel hop-on downshifts and heavy braking.
Also new for 2024, the class-conquering twin features Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). HSTC allows riders to select a mode to suit riding conditions, smoothly reducing torque to eliminate rear wheel slip. As many riders look to the CBR500R as their first experience of real-world motorcycling, this invaluable rider aid is a significant confidence booster.
The lively DOHC engine provides plenty of power. The good news is, though, the CBR500R’s fuel frugality is legendary, meaning one tank of gas will last for a little over 300 miles.
The engine and chassis remain the same but that doesn’t mean Honda has overlooked the rest of the bike.
Drawing inspiration from the cutting-edge CBR1000RR-R, the 2024 Honda CBR500R boasts aggressive new bodywork from front to back. The CBR DNA is unmistakable but Improvements to the bodywork are more than a visual nod to the all-conquering Fireblade.
The winglets are pure racetrack technology and redirect airflow to aid steering feel and front tyre feedback. New LED lights help with added visibility on the road. Meanwhile, the revised information consul features premium technology. The 5” full-colour TFT screen offers improved visibility in strong sunlight. Moreover, it’s customisable between bar, circle and simple display patterns.
The consul is compatible with the IOS/Android Smartphone connectivity of Honda RoadSync. Function control is via a backlit 4-way toggle switch on the left handlebar. The switch is suitable for glove-friendly, on-screen turn-by-turn navigation and also allows the rider to make calls or listen to music.
For novices and experienced riders, the amazing engine and high-quality chassis of the 2024YM Honda CBR500R make this pocket rocket a seriously fun option.
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