In 2004 Honda released the CBR1000RR amidst great anticipation. MotoGP was in full swing and Honda hyped its new liter star with ad slogans claiming the new 1000 to be a direct descendent of the RC211V GP racer.
The first gen CBR was a technological marvel as it truly was an entirely new bike from the ground up. Power came from a fresh, ultra compact 998cc motor backed by a stacked six-speed trans. Other noteworthy specs included a slick undertail exhaust, LED taillight and aggressive split headlights.
2004-2005
The all-new CBR1000RR...
2004-2005
The all-new CBR1000RR marked the end of Honda's 900cc era as it sported 1000cc badges on its flanks. It had a new frame, motor, suspension, brakes and bodywork. When the power hit the pavement the Honda was good for 149 HP and 76 LB-FT at the rear tire. Despite a rather heavy wet weight of 466 pounds, it devoured the quarter mile in 10.16 @ 142 MPH on the way to a top speed of 175.
Backboning the new motor was an equally novel frame that utilized gravity and fine die-casting processes for one crazy combo. And bolted to the framework was an extra long MotoGP style swingarm and Unit Pro-Link suspension design.
Out front the CBR had equally trick hardware with the Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) that was an industry first. This electronically controlled damper automatically adjusted the steering effort based on your wheel speed.
All of Honda's hard work toward mass centralization, the electronic trickery and its obnoxiously long swingarm came together in one glorious package. The brakes were strong, the motor was stout and the chassis was forgiving.
But like all bikes, the CBR1000RR wasn't without its faults either. And perhaps its greatest downfall was its extra heft. This piggy packed on some pounds and tipped the scales some 35 pounds heavier than the CBR954RR it replaced. Following closely in-toe was the engine's soft demeanor. The new mill had great bottom-and midrange power but compared to its classmates it was a bit soft on top.
2006-2007
The engineers at...
2006-2007
The engineers at Honda listened to the critics when they tweaked the CBR1000RR for the 2006 model year. Thanks to a pumped-up motor, a sharpened chassis, improved suspension and sculpted bodywork, the second-generation bike was lighter, faster and more nimble. Power numbers increased to 155 HP and 80 FT-LB at the rear tire and quarter-mile sprints were completed in just 9.89 @ 146 MPH. Top speed increased to almost 180 MPH and the wet weight was trimmed to 451 pounds.
Despite some shortcomings, the big Honda sold well and remained unchanged until 2006 when Honda regrouped for battle. What ultimately emerged was a bike that was better on all fronts-more power, less weight and even better handling.
The engine received a massaged top end with higher-lift cams, increased compression and a worked head that bumped the redline 550 RPM to a lofty 12,200. A new exhaust system was also fitted as well as shorter gearing.
On the handling front the chassis geometry was tweaked, larger brakes were fitted, a new swingarm was utilized and fresh suspension components were used. When wrapped around new, sculpted bodywork the completed package made for the best CBR1000RR of the generation. The engineers at Honda addressed all of the weaknesses in the previous model when creating the 2006 CBR1K and it clearly showed on track and in the streets.
But for every step forward the CBR took so did the competition, and like the first gen, the '06 was still overweight and a bit underpowered against its rivals. But, what it gave up in outright numbers it made up for with tractable handling and usable power. If ever there was a "user-friendly" literbike, this is it.
Owners feel the strong engine and killer looks are their favorite attributes with the precise chassis carding a close third. While most examples are relinquished to a life of civil duties, many owners use their CBRs for occasional trackdays.