New Generation Honda Superbike

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 4, Issue 48, 19 May 1987, Page 7 (Supplement)

New Generation Honda Superbike

A second model has been added to Honda's new range of in-line four-cylinder superbikes. The new bike is the CBR600F, a light, nimble and fast 600cc motorcycle which joins the recently introduced CBRI000F sports tourer. Both machines are the result of a new Honda

development programme on in-line four-cylinder engines, which will run parallel to vee-four engine development and production. Lighter, narrower, more agile and more powerful than previous in-line fours from Honda, the CBR range will sell alongside the second-generation vee-four engined machines like the

VFR750and Interceptor. Ihe CBRs are new from the wheels up. Besides an outstanding mechanical specification, they set a new direction in motorcycle styl-. ing for Honda with virtually fully enclosed bodies. The most striking feature of the CBR600 is the 1 2-piece aerodynamically designed full fairing which has performance benefits as well as improving rider comfort. The CBR600 provides outstanding performance for its engine capacity. The totally new, liquidcooled, in-line four-cylinder engine has double overhead camshafts, 16 valves, four 32mnrCV-type carburettors and high inertia intake ports. With a bore of 63mm, a stroke of 48mm and a compassion ratio of eleven to one, the 598cc engine develops 85PS at 1 l,000rpm and 6.0kgm of torque at 8500rpm. Designed for ' compactness and lightness, engine width has been kept to a minimum by keeping the cylinder pitch as small as possible. Other features of the engine include pivoted rocker arms, double rotor oil pump, with separate feeds for engine, a new multilayered aluminium oil cooler, a lightweight aluminium radiator and carburized connecting rods. To enhance engine cooling, the rear fender has been designed so it moves with the wheel to maximise hot air ventilation around the engine. Handling received top priority in the development of the CBR600 and the outstanding results were achiev-

ed by restricting the wheelbase to a mere 1410mm and positioning the engine as low as possible in the frame. The frame is a newly designed high rigidity steel box section diamond frame. Pro-Link suspension is used. with a ne'w damper system to improve riding comfort.