Honda is saving the biggest, and most significant, new 2001 models for its Las Vegas dealers’ show later this week. In Europe, however, Honda has already unveiled several new models which should make it to the United States, including a significantly revised CBR600F4, and a 600F4 “sport” model.
The revised 600 includes, as expected, programmed fuel injection. Many, many other modifications to the 600 have been made, however.
Among the changes to the 600 is the new styling of both the standard and the sport models. The pictures reveal revised nose and tail sections, with a “monoposto” look to the sport model. Honda didn’t stop there, however, as significant changes have been made to the frame and other aspects of the suspension and chassis.
We will have more detailed specifications later this week, but the new 600 includes a much larger airbox and re-designed ram air system to go along with the fuel injection, as well as improved emissions controls.
Significant, and likely effective, changes to the chassis increase rigidity while reducing weight. For example, the head area is stronger, the swingarm pivot is stronger, and more rigid, as is the swingarm.
The 600 also received modifications to its suspension — some aimed at reducing weight, and some aimed at increasing suspension performance. Additionally, Honda went to great effort to reduce the weight of the wheels and the brakes, and increase braking performance. Also, final gearing was changed (larger rear sprocket for quicker acceleration).
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