2006 Honda CBR1000RR
Honda’s CBR1000RR has been the most user-friendly literbike since it was first introduced in 2004, but changes, that are being made, for ‘06 should result in a sharper tool without changing it into a twitch monster, even if its changes aren’t as extensive as some of us would like. One of the biggest changes that they will be doing is giving it a revised motor.
A new cylinder-head combustion chamber raises the compression ratio from 11.9:1 to 12.2:1, and enhanced porting is claimed to offer more power in its mid and upper ranges. The intake cam receives a new grind intended to boost power up top, and the new intake valves feature a new double-spring design that has helped raise the engine’s redline. Better gearbox performance is promised via new tranny gears and new clutch needle bearings.
The CBR was the portliest of literbikes, so Honda trimmed weight wherever possible. The new dual-outlet, stainless steel exhaust system is claimed to offer more power, and its titanium core reduces mass. A new aluminum subframe saves ounces, as does the left-side magnesium engine cover.
Chassis geometry is juggled slightly, with changes intended to make the CBR steer a little more agile. Rake has gone 0.3 degrees steeper (to 23.45 degrees) and trail has been reduced by a scant 2mm. The CBR’s wheelbase has been blunted 0.4 inch to 55.2 inches. Front and rear suspensions get tweaked, the front with new damping and the rear with a new linkage for the Unit Pro-Link swingarm. Braking might be a bit better now that Honda has fitted 10mm-larger 320mm front discs.
The general appearance of the RR is similar, but Honda has designed all-new bodywork for a more curvaceous and aggressive look. Also new are the CBR’s color schemes; the silver/gray and black/silver look familiar, but a new Candy Blue/Yellow combo brightens up the lineup, and I especially like the new black nose on the red version. You get bonus points if you notice the more comfortable seat foam. One thing Honda didn’t change was the CBR1K’s price, stable at $11,299.