Cycle News is a weekly magazine that covers all aspects of motorcycling including Supercross, Motocross and MotoGP as well as new motorcycles
Issue link: https://magazine.cyclenews.com/i/128396
~S"J, LO 0 K:l:::JL2_0_0_6_H_on_d_o_C_B_R_7 O_O_OR_R _ Messing With AGood Thing Can the CBR IOOORR get to the top of the podium in 2006? (Left) The new CBR1000RR is extensively refined for 2006 with improvements to the chassis, motor and styling. By BLAKE CONNER he CBRIOOORR has been a favorite around the Cycle News offices since its introduction in 2004. In our 2004 Cycle News Open-class shootout, the Honda surprised us all by stealing victory away from the Yamaha RI and then-new ZX-I OR. It was the Honda's perfect combination of power, handling, composure and efficiency that allowed it to take the victory. In our 2005 Open-class shootout, the Honda once again found its way to the podium. Once again we cited the fact that the Honda just does everything well and is simply an invigorating and enjoyable ride. Sitting on their laurels isn't an option at Honda, and neither is being second best. So, Honda has made some significant changes to the CBRI OOORR for 2006. Refinements were made instead of a complete redesign because the basic package has been right on target. Listed below are the highlights of the 2006 CBR IOOORR. The primary goals for the 2006 CBR IOOORR were to sharpen handling, boost horsepower and reduce weight. The focuses of many of the refinements were aimed at the Iiquid-cooled, 16-valve, inline, four-cylinder 99&c motor. The cylinder head porting was changed to improve power in the mid- and upper-rpm ranges. The combustion chamber shape was changed to raise the compression ratio to 12.2: I. The CBR IOooRR gets a new intake camshaft to help increase power in the top of the rev range. New intake valves were added for increased power, while the intake valve springs were changed from a single-spring design to a double-spring design for improved performance at high rpm. These changes have allowed the engine redline to be raised, but we don't have that figure yet either. The ram-air intake screen was redesigned for improved flow, while at the other end the exhaust system was redesigned for improved power and is now lighter. The transmission receives new gears for 2006 to help improve engagement, while the clutch gets new needle bearings for improved feel and durability. The chassis wasn't left alone, as the bike's geometry was changed for improved handling. The fork receives new internal T 40 SEPTEMBER 21, 2005 • CYCLE NEWS The 599 retums to the Honda lineup for 2006 after a "ear's hiatus. Upgrades Include an Inverted fort< and a host of styling changes. settings to improve suspension action from the front end of the bike. Out back, the UnitPro Link suspension system gets a new linkage for improved handling and suspension action. The brakes on the CBR IOOORR have been upgraded as well and now carry 320mm rotors up front instead of the previous 31 Omm units, and they are still squeezed by four-piston, radial-mount calipers. The bodywork on the new bike is brand new and features new upper, middle and lower cowls for easier access and updated styling. Three color combinations will be available, including Candy Blue/yellow, red/black, silver/Metallic Silver and black. The suggested retail price will be $1 1,299. CN (Above) The Interceptor receives a bunch of updates for 2006, including a revamped VUC system and multiple styling updates.