A couple of weeks ago, Honda teased the update to its middleweight supersport, the CBR600RR. Now, the Japanese manufacturer has officially unveiled the motorcycle in Japan and here's what it has to offer.
In comparison to the previous-generation model, Honda has changed the design quite a bit. The styling is derived from the litre-class Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and features a redesigned fairing that sports winglets to aid aerodynamics. Honda claims that this new design has enabled the new CBR600RR to have the lowest drag coefficient in its segment.
Mechanically, the CBR600RR sports the same 599cc, inline-four engine as the model that is currently on sale internationally. However, Honda has improved the strength of the parts that make up the valvetrain, changed the shape of the inlet port and optimised valve ticking. Peak output figures are 121hp at 14,000rpm and 64Nm of torque at 11,500rpm. The CBR600RR now employs a ride-by-wire throttle and a slipper clutch, with a quickshifter available as an optional extra.
New electronics include a TFT display that allows the rider to toggle through the new power modes. It also comes equipped with ABS and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC).
The 2021 Honda CBR600RR is priced at ¥16,06,000 (Rs 11.25 lakh) and, for now, will only be available in Japan. When it does go on sale internationally, it will rival the Kawasaki ZX6R and the Yamaha R6.
Azaman Chothia
