The 2024 Honda CBR600RR is Here: The New and Improved Supersport Bike

Posted by Florin Muna on January 6th, 2024

The Honda CBR600RR is one of the most iconic and successful motorcycles in the history of the supersport category. Since its debut in 2003, it has won countless races and championships, earning a reputation for its performance, handling, and reliability. However, in recent years, the CBR600RR has faced some challenges, such as stricter emission regulations, declining sales, and increased competition from other brands. As a result, Honda discontinued the CBR600RR in Europe in 2017, and kept selling the same model in the US without any major updates.

But now, the CBR600RR is back, and better than ever. Honda has announced the return of the CBR600RR to Europe for 2024, and we expect the same for the US market. The new generation CBR600RR is not just a minor facelift, but a complete overhaul that incorporates the latest technology, aerodynamics, and engine tuning from Honda’s MotoGP program. The 2024 CBR600RR is a true race-bred machine that aims to reclaim its throne as the king of the supersport class.

What’s New for the 2024 Honda CBR600RR?

The 2024 Honda CBR600RR features a host of new and improved features that make it a formidable contender in the supersport segment. Here are some of the highlights:

• A new fairing design with winglets that improve cornering stability and reduce drag. The winglets are inspired by the ones used on the Honda RC213V MotoGP bike, and are claimed to be the most effective in the class. The fairing also incorporates LED headlights, indicators, and taillights, giving the CBR600RR a sleek and modern look.
• A revised 599cc inline-four engine that meets the Euro 5 emission standards, while delivering more power and torque. The engine has a new intake system, throttle-by-wire control, and updated valve timing, resulting in a peak output of 119 hp at 14,250 rpm and 46.5 lb-ft at 11,500 rpm. The engine also features an assist/slipper clutch that reduces rear wheel hop and lever effort, and a quick shifter that enables clutchless upshifts and downshifts.
• A 6-axis IMU-based electronics package that offers a range of rider aids and modes. The CBR600RR has three preset ride modes (Rain, Standard, and Sport) and two user-customizable modes (User 1 and User 2), that adjust the power delivery, traction control, wheelie control, engine braking, and ABS settings. The traction control system has nine levels of intervention, and also incorporates slip rate control that monitors the rear wheel speed and adjusts the engine output accordingly. The ABS system has cornering functionality that modulates the brake pressure based on the lean angle. The CBR600RR also has an electronic steering damper that varies the damping force according to the speed and acceleration.
• A fully adjustable Showa suspension system that provides optimal handling and feedback. The front suspension is a 41mm Big Piston inverted fork, while the rear suspension is a Pro-Link shock with a remote reservoir. Both offer 4.7 inches of travel, and can be tuned to suit different riding styles and conditions.
• A full-color TFT display that shows all the essential information and settings. The display has a day and night mode, and can be controlled by a switch on the left handlebar. The display also shows the gear position, fuel level, engine temperature, clock, and trip meters.
• A comfort pack that adds some practical features for everyday use. The comfort pack includes an expandable tail bag, heated grips, and a USB-C charging port. The comfort pack is optional, and can be purchased separately from Honda dealers.
• A track-only HRC Race Kit that enhances the performance and potential of the CBR600RR. The HRC Race Kit includes a racing ECU, a titanium exhaust system, a racing air filter, a quick throttle kit, a racing wire harness, and various other parts and settings. The HRC Race Kit is intended for professional racers and teams, and is not street-legal.

How Does the 2024 Honda CBR600RR Compare to the Competition?

The 2024 CBR600RR faces some tough rivals in the supersport category, such as the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-6R, the Yamaha YZF-R6, and the Triumph Daytona 765. Here is how they stack up against each other in terms of specifications and price:

As we can see, the CBR600RR is not the most powerful, nor the lightest, nor the cheapest bike in the class. However, it has a balanced and refined package that offers a high level of performance, handling, and technology. The CBR600RR also has the advantage of being the newest and most updated model in the segment, while the others have been around for a few years without any major changes. The CBR600RR also has the benefit of Honda’s reputation for quality, reliability, and customer service.

What Are the Pros and Cons of the 2024 Honda CBR600RR?

The 2024 CBR600RR is a superb motorcycle that will appeal to many riders who are looking for a sporty, agile, and technologically advanced machine. However, it is not perfect, and it may not suit everyone’s needs and preferences. Here are some of the pros and cons of the CBR600RR:

Pros:

• A proven and refined engine that delivers smooth and linear power and torque
• A sophisticated and customizable electronics package that enhances the safety and performance of the bike
• A new and improved fairing design that improves the aerodynamics and aesthetics of the bike
• A high-quality and adjustable suspension system that provides excellent handling and feedback
• A comfortable and ergonomic riding position that is suitable for both street and track use
• A comfort pack that adds some practical features for everyday use
• A track-only HRC Race Kit that unlocks the full potential of the bike

Cons:

• A relatively high price tag that may deter some buyers
• A lack of low-end and mid-range torque that may make the bike less responsive in some situations
• A limited availability and selection of colors and options
• A potential difficulty in finding parts and accessories for the bike
• A possible decline in the popularity and demand of the supersport category

Conclusion

The 2024 Honda CBR600RR is a welcome return of one of the most legendary and successful motorcycles in the supersport category. It is a bike that combines the best of Honda’s engineering, technology, and racing heritage, and offers a thrilling and rewarding riding experience. The CBR600RR is not the cheapest, nor the most powerful, nor the lightest bike in the class, but it is a well-rounded and refined package that can compete with any of its rivals. The CBR600RR is a bike that will satisfy the needs and desires of many riders, whether they are looking for a fun and fast street bike, or a competitive and capable track bike. The CBR600RR is a bike that deserves to be called the king of the supersport class.