Entering the super sports market in Japan
is the 2020 Honda CBR600RR, priced at 1.46 million Yen before
consumption tax. Performance is a refinement of previous models, with the
engine now spinning up to 14,000 rpm. The greater engine speed is achieved
through materials used in the camshafts, valve springs and crankshaft. Changes
to the intake and exhaust include a larger throttle bore, reshaped inlet port
and optimised diameter and thickness of exhaust tubing, along with adjustments
in the valve timing.
This allows to CBR600RR’s 599 cc,
four-cylinder mill to produce 121 PS at 14,000 rpm and 64 Nm of torque at
11,500 rpm, indicating the designers intend the engine to live its life in the
upper reaches of the rev range. An assist and slipper clutch on the six-speed
gearbox reduces clutch effort and smoothens out drive during hard down shifts
with a quick shifter being an optional accessory.
Braking is with dual hydraulic discs on
the front wheel and single disc at the back, using Tokico callipers with ABS as
standard. An upside-down Big Piston Front fork holds up the front of the
CBR600RR while an adjustable monoshock does duties at the rear.
Inside the cockpit a full-colour TFT-LCD
panel displays the necessary information and LED lighting is used throughout. A
full suite of riding aids comes with the CBR600RR including Honda Selectable
Torque Control (HSTC), Power Selector, Wheelie Mitigation Control and
Selectable Engine Braking.
Aerodynamics now plays a part in the
CBR600RR’s design with downforce generated by winglets to improve stability
while entering corners or turning while accelerating. The 2020 Honda CBR600RR
comes in one colour scheme, Grand Prix Red, which takes styling cues from the Honda
Racing Corporation (HRC) tri-colour paintwork.
A HRC CBR600RR race kit will also be
offered from January 2021 for next year’s racing season. The kit, which will be
sold through HRC service centres in Japan, consists of a racing ECU and
harness, upgraded front and rear suspension, and racing front brake calliper
with thicker discs as well as race fairing and cowl.
