SHOOTOUT
P94
2013 MIDDLEWEIGHT SPORTBIKE SHOOTOUT PART II
Honda is, if anything, improved
in the handling department. The
BP fork transmits a less dramatic
road feel, but doesn't dampen
out feedback. The new fork also
reduces front-end dive, and it
makes the already stable and balanced Honda even easier to ride.
"The Honda supplies ultra-light
steering, while staying planted to
the tarmac – inspiring fun, spirited riding," says Adey. An opinion Nathon seconds, adding:
"The Honda front end is responsive and gave a lot of feedback
from the road. Extremely well balanced, the CBR didn't feel divey
in the corners. Fun and easy to
ride."
Radial-mount,
four-piston
Tokico calipers don't offer the
Brembo monobloc spec bragging
rights, but our testers prefer them
on the road. Only the Triumph's
Brembo setup rates higher, as did
the Nissin monobloc calipers on
the Kawasaki. The CBR brakes
are forceful, without being grabby,
and transmit terrific feel at the lever. They make the bike, dare we
say it again, EASY TO RIDE.
The ergonomic package on
the Honda works well for a wide
range of riders. While it feels
more compact than some of the
600s, it's quite comfortable –
with the one of the softest seats.
Honda's customary fit and finish
is evident, and the CBR feels like
a high quality bike. That said, the
CBR600RR platform had gone a
long way between complete overhauls. It's sported significant updates in between – but no major
styling makeovers. This split test
rider opinion in the styling department, as some deem it dated,
while others say it's one of their
favorites. Testers also divide over
the Honda's dash, with some finding it outmoded compared with the
newer offerings in the class.
"The tank is a bit overdone with
the plastic, and the Red White
and Blue livery we tested isn't
my favorite," admits Nathon. "But
the all-Red CBR is my second fa-
