2011 Honda CBR Review

Intro

The 2011 Honda CBR comes in many different sizes. Honda manufactures the two- seat CBR in three different trim levels, and each comes with an available anti-lock brakes option. The base trim 250R trim is a capable entry-level sport bike, while the 600RR and 1000RR provide more power and will satisfy experienced performance enthusiasts.

Handling on the 250R trim is very responsive, although it is lighter than the higher trims and is not well-equipped for harsh weather conditions. Meanwhile, the higher trims are heavier but far sturdier. Regardless of the specific trim, the 2011 Honda CBR is ergonomically sound and aesthetically pleasing. Steering is nimble and the ride is smooth. One of the benefits to all of the trims is the underseat storage, which allows drivers to discreetly store goods without impeding aerodynamics.

Unlike other motorcycles in the sport bike category, the 2011 Honda CBR is up to the rigors of everyday driving. Those who spring for the 250 R may find it a bit underwhelming on the race track, although it should offer more than enough excitement for entry-level bikers. Still, it only offers one cylinder, and those with lots of experience may find that it is not up to their performance demands. On the other hand, the 600RR, and 1000RR trims are designed with seasoned veterans in mind. Both offer four cylinders, and match up with the most powerful sports bikes on the market. It should be noted that fuel economy on the higher trims leaves something to be desired, although this is to be expected with bikes that offer such strong performance. Honda compensates for the lower fuel economy with greater fuel capacity, as the 600RR has a fuel capacity of 4.8 gallons, while the 1000RR has 4.5 gallons, both larger than the 3.4 gallons on the 250R. The instrumentation is intuitive and the design manages to be assertive without looking gaudy.

New For 2011

  • On 1000RR trim, all colors are equipped with silver frames and a silver swingarm.
  • The engine comes standard with Red/Black and all Black colors.

2011 Honda CBR Specs

  • Model: 2011 Honda CBR
  • Engine Type: 249cc, one-cylinder on 250R, 599cc on 600RR, 990cc on 1000RR
  • Bore and Stroke: 2.99 inches and 2.17 inches on 250R; 3.0 inches and 2.2 inches on 1000RR; and 2.6 inches and 1.7 inches on 600RR
  • Compression ratio: 10.7:1 on 250R; 12.2:1 on 600RR; and 12.3:1 on 1000RR
  • Valve Train: DOHC valve configuration
  • Induction: N/A
  • Ignition: Electric
  • Transmission: Six-speed manual
  • Final Drive: N/A
  • Fuel Capacity: 3.4 gallons on 250R; 4.8 gallons on 600RR; and 4.7 gallons on 1000RR
  • Estimated Fuel Economy: 36 mpg on 1000RR
  • Brakes (Front): Single disc, 11.7 inches on 250R; Double disc, 12.2 inches on 600RR; Double disc, 12.6 inches on 1000RR
  • Brakes (Rear): Single disc, 8.7 inches on 250R; Single disc, 8.7 inches on 600RR; single disc, 8.7 inches on 1000RR
  • Suspension (Front): Telescopic fork
  • Suspension (Rear): Twin sided swing arm
  • Wheelbase: 53.9 inches on 250R, 53.9 inches on 600RR, and 55.4 inches on 1000 RR
  • Rake: 25.0 degrees on 250R, 23.5 degrees on 600RR, 23.3 degrees on 1000RR
  • Trail: 3.7 inches on 250R, 3.8 inches on 600RR, and 3.8 inches on 1000RR
  • Seat Height: 30.5 inches on 250R, 32.3 inches on 600RR, 32.3 inches on 1000RR
  • Curb Weight: 359.0 pounds on 250R, 683.0 pounds on 600RR, 705.0 pounds on 1000RR
  • Tires (Front): 110/70-17 on 250R, 120/70-ZR17 on 600RR, 120/70-ZR17 on 1000RR
  • Tires (Rear): 140/70-17 on 250R, 180/55-ZR17 on 600RR, 190/50-ZR17 on 1000RR

Accessories

  • Carbon fiber tank pad
  • Cycle cover
  • Metallic black color

Key Competitors For The 2011 Honda CBR

  • Suzuki GSX-R 1000
  • Kawasaki Ninja ZX-14
  • Kawasaki Ninja 1000
  • Harley-Davidson VRSC Night Rod Special
  • Suzuki Hayabusa 1340