The 2010 Honda CBR line ranges in size and scope, from simplistic sport class motorcycles that are built for zipping around town, to powerful super sport bikes that are reserved for experienced riders, and serious sport racing competitors. In the United States, the most popular and foundational CBR model that is preferred by most sport riders, and widely considered the finest of all middle-weight sport motorcycles, is the Honda CBR600RR. The Honda CBR600RR enjoyed a complete facelift in 2009, and the 2010 models possess many of the same features, with variances in available paint schemes.
The Honda CBR is popular worldwide, and small street sport bikes ranging from 125cc - 1000cc can be found throughout Europe, Asia, and Canada. Occasionally, a Honda CBR125R will sneak into the United States, but legal registration can be a headache in most states. Across the board, they are considered illegal vehicles, which is unfortunate—they boast nearly 100mpg.
The 2010 Honda CBR600RR is as sweet a ride as a sport bike can be. The front and full body fairing hug the sleek frame tightly, dropping sharply to the rear axle, leaving room for the industrial-themed, hanging pegs for the passengers bold enough to ride the back of this speedster. The Honda design team offered an impressive redesign in 2009, creating paint schemes and overall aesthetic lines that join together seamlessly at the fairing and tank. The seat is so impressively low-profile, it almost looks as if it doesn't exist. Surprisingly, that doesn't affect the comfort of the bike—the 2010 Honda CBR600RR remains one of the more comfortable sport motorcycles available to choose from. The passenger seat keeps the line of the tail section clean, but remains comfortable for short rides.
Considering the performance of the 2010 Honda CBR600RR, the only motorcycle that can outperform this model in the Honda family would be its big brother, the CBR1000RR. These machines enjoy one of the most reliable, liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder engines ever designed and executed. Getting off the line too fast is a possibility with the high-revving capability of the Honda 600RR. Experienced riders will have no problem ripping through all six gears, and pushing to highway speeds and beyond.
The suspension on the Honda CBR600RR is anything but ordinary. The damping system continues to employ Honda's HESD (Honda Electronic Steering Damper), allowing for even better handling for the riders who love to get out and scrape their knees. ABS is available on the 2010 Honda CBR600RR, and 1000RR. Fuel economy is impressive when considering performance capability: the 600RR tested at 40mpg.
For a responsible rider, the Honda CBR600RR serves as an excellent introduction to the motorcycle sport class. By no means is it a great beginners bike, yet its light weight and easy maneuverability make it an excellent option for riders who are graduating from novice to more experienced riding.