Motorcycle specifications HondaCBR 600 F 1997 A few extra grams of sport

Cruel fate for a 600 Sport these days. Barely enough time to complete 2 laps of the track, and its replacement unceremoniously unbolts it from the cupboard. The new CBR 600 is no slouch when it comes to mimicking the one it replaces, appropriating its glory for its own. Aesthetically, the CBR 97 bears a striking resemblance to its predecessor. There's no risk of disorientation, but the rear end is a pleasant surprise. The rear end has a very pleasing design, with elegant, curved shapes and a nicely integrated taillight. The full fairing is virtually unchanged, the changes being mainly technical.

With a higher seat that puts the rider a little further forward, the CBR announces more sport. The engine, too. With a 5hp increase in power (now 105), a modified air intake, improved mapping and a few minor tweaks, the boiler isn't waiting for the competition to catch up. The recent Kawasaki ZX-6R and Suzuki GSX-R 600 are showing their teeth. The brakes have also been reworked, and the rev counter has been given a striking white background.

With the work done on the gearbox, selection has become much smoother and more precise. Shifting gears is a real pleasure. You'll first have to crank up the revs to take advantage of the higher claimed power. There's no obvious difference at low revs - it's only around 4,000 rpm that things start to change. That's when, against all expectations, the old CBR starts to take the upper hand. The 97, on the other hand, seems to be struggling with its gaseous mixtures. Then, at 5,000 rpm, it finds its feet, regains lost ground and gives the 95 a run for its money. The result of the engine's response: a little more boot and liveliness for a more pleasant ride, and more alert corner exits.
The CBR 600's improved suspension gives the front end a better feel. Stiffer and more stable, the bike moves less from the rear under heavy braking. The differently designed discs and pads deliver more bite and feel. The CBR's greater efficiency means that certain concessions have to be made, such as the rear damping, which is a little less supple on rough roads.

Over the years, the CBR 600 has evolved towards greater sportiness, while preserving its road-holding qualities. The new model follows this trend and doesn't disappoint, except perhaps for those who prefer a tourer with a sporty look; the old model might suit them better. But in the face of the 600 Ninja, T-cat and GSX-R, it's time to react. Especially as the Suzuki is formidable on the racetrack.

M.B - (Internet photos)