The Modern And Sporty Honda That Began A Road Bike Revolution

By the point the CBR reached the American market in 1987 because the “Hurricane,” the minimal engine measurement had grown to 600 cubic centimeters, belting out a powerful 85 horsepower. The bike had additionally totally realized its wind-cheating ABS plastic fairing that helped it attain a prime pace of 134 mph. 

Whereas sure high-dollar European bikes of the period have been already wrapped in full bodywork, the Hurricane was the primary Japanese product to take action — and with an affordable price ticket. In addition to being aerodynamic, the total fairing had the additional benefit of protecting manufacturing prices down by eliminating the necessity to gown up the engine for viewing.

In addition to the CBR600F Hurricane, Honda additionally launched a large 998 cubic centimeter model in 1987, the CBR1000F Hurricane. The CBR1000F produced a whopping 132 horsepower, greater than some other 1000cc bike as much as then. The Hurricane 1000’s prime pace of 164 mph was additionally a report — the highest of any manufacturing bike. 

Though the CBR1000F was undeniably highly effective, it was actually extra a sport touring bike. Its bigger body wasn’t as nimble by way of corners as its 600cc little brother, however it did make for an especially snug lengthy distance cruiser. 

Regardless that the CRB400F was the primary CBR ever, it was the late-Nineteen Eighties CBR600F that made Honda the sport bike to beat. In 1987, the CBR received all 9 of the AMA supersport racing occasions held that 12 months. Regardless of its racy trying bodywork, its using place was snug sufficient to make use of every single day. 

In 2023, over 35 years after debuting, you possibly can nonetheless purchase a model new CBR600 — albeit with innovative know-how and, in fact, much more energy.