Honda CBR600RR
Used Car Review

Overview

Looking for a motorcycle that delivers pure supersport thrills without compromise? The Honda CBR600RR might be exactly what you need. This track-focused machine represents Honda’s commitment to serious performance, offering race-bred engineering in a package that’s surprisingly accessible for dedicated enthusiasts. It’s the bike for riders who want genuine MotoGP-inspired technology without stepping up to litre-class power.

From the moment you see it, the CBR600RR commands attention. Its sharp, aerodynamic bodywork and aggressive riding position make it clear this isn’t a Sunday cruiser. The build quality is exceptional, with precision that you’d expect from Honda’s racing heritage. Inside the cockpit, you’ll find a focused riding environment with everything positioned for serious performance. The electronics package includes traction control and multiple riding modes, giving you confidence to explore the bike’s considerable capabilities.

Riding the CBR600RR is an intense experience. The 599cc inline four-cylinder engine produces thrilling performance across the rev range, making every journey feel purposeful. It handles with surgical precision, giving you complete confidence on twisty roads while remaining stable enough for longer rides. The bike demands respect and rewards skill, making it perfect for experienced riders who appreciate serious engineering. While it comes with a premium price tag compared to entry-level sportsbikes, you’re investing in Honda’s decades of racing expertise that you can experience every time you ride.

What's the Honda CBR600RR Like to Drive?

The Honda CBR600RR is engineered for pure supersport performance, not casual touring. The 599cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder engine produces around 118 horsepower, delivering power that builds progressively to a screaming 14,500rpm redline. This isn’t about low-end grunt but rather about sustained high-rpm performance that rewards committed riding. The bike accelerates from 0-60mph in around 3.2 seconds, making motorway merging effortless and overtaking thrilling.

Where the CBR600RR truly excels is in its chassis dynamics and handling precision. The steering is laser-sharp and incredibly accurate, giving you complete confidence when carving through corners. The suspension strikes an impressive balance between track capability and real-world usability, soaking up road imperfections while maintaining composure under hard acceleration and braking. The braking system provides exceptional stopping power with excellent feel at the lever. This is a supersport motorcycle that makes every ride feel like a track day, yet remains civilised enough for committed road use.

Honda CBR600RR Interior, Tech & Comfort Review

Step onto the CBR600RR and you immediately understand this is a focused supersport machine. The riding position is committed and track-oriented, with clip-on handlebars that place you in an aggressive crouch. The seat is firm and narrow, designed more for control than long-distance comfort. The footpegs are set high and rear-set, creating the classic supersport triangle that maximises your connection to the bike but can feel cramped during extended rides.

The cockpit features a clear LCD display that provides all essential information including speed, rpm, gear position, and fuel level. The build quality throughout is excellent, with switchgear that operates with precision and materials that feel robust. Honda has included modern touches like LED lighting and a comprehensive electronics package with traction control and riding modes. The fuel tank design creates excellent knee grip for spirited riding. While comfort isn’t the primary focus, the CBR600RR provides enough refinement for dedicated enthusiasts who prioritise performance over touring luxury.

The Honda CBR600RR is an outstanding choice for riders who want serious supersport performance with Honda’s renowned reliability and build quality. It successfully delivers genuine track-day capability in a package that remains usable on the road. The engine is thrilling and responsive, while the chassis provides confidence-inspiring handling that makes you feel like a better rider than you probably are. The trade-off is a riding position that can be demanding on longer rides and running costs that reflect its premium positioning. This isn’t a bike for casual riders or those seeking comfort, but that’s not its purpose. Its purpose is to provide an authentic supersport experience with Honda’s racing pedigree behind every component. If you’re an experienced rider who appreciates precision engineering and doesn’t mind paying for the privilege, the CBR600RR is exceptionally rewarding. It proves that focused, purpose-built motorcycles still have their place in an increasingly practical world.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Honda CBR600RR Running Costs

As a premium supersport motorcycle, the CBR600RR has running costs that reflect its performance focus. Fuel consumption varies dramatically depending on how you ride, ranging from around 35mpg in spirited use to potentially 45mpg during more restrained riding. Insurance costs will be significant, particularly for younger riders, as supersport bikes attract higher premiums due to their performance capabilities and theft risk.

The main consideration is the initial purchase price and depreciation. The CBR600RR commands a premium as a flagship Honda supersport model, though its strong reputation helps maintain resale values better than some competitors. Maintenance costs are reasonable for the class, with Honda’s reliability reputation meaning fewer unexpected bills. Regular services are essential given the high-revving nature of the engine, but parts availability is excellent and running costs are manageable for riders committed to serious performance. Consider motorcycle finance options to spread the cost, especially with flexible payment plans available.

Is the Honda CBR600RR Practical for Everyday Use?

For a supersport motorcycle, the CBR600RR offers reasonable practicality within its focused brief. The 18.1-litre fuel tank provides decent range, typically allowing 150-200 miles between fill-ups depending on your riding style. Storage is minimal, limited to what you can fit in a tail bag or tank bag, which is typical for this class. The aggressive riding position means it’s best suited to shorter to medium-distance rides rather than continental touring.

Where the CBR600RR shows its practical side is in its versatility across different riding scenarios. It’s equally at home on track days, spirited country road rides, or even daily commuting for dedicated enthusiasts. The bike’s relatively compact dimensions make it manageable in traffic and easy to park. If you regularly carry a pillion passenger or need significant storage capacity, you might want to consider other used Honda motorcycles that offer more touring-oriented features. For solo riders who prioritise performance and handling precision, the CBR600RR strikes an excellent balance between track capability and real-world usability.

The Honda CBR600RR stands out in the competitive supersport market by offering genuine race-derived technology and handling precision. It packages Honda’s decades of racing expertise into a focused machine that rewards skill and provides an authentic supersport experience. The sophisticated electronics, MotoGP-inspired aerodynamics, and legendary Honda reliability create a compelling package for serious enthusiasts.

You choose the CBR600RR because you want a supersport bike that doesn’t compromise on performance or quality. Its track-bred capabilities, precise handling, and thrilling engine make every journey feel purposeful and engaging. It’s perfectly suited for experienced riders who appreciate engineering excellence and don’t mind paying for it. If you’re looking for a supersport motorcycle that offers genuine racing pedigree with everyday usability, the CBR600RR should be at the top of your list, especially with cars under £15,000 offering great value in the current market.