New 600cc bikes for 2011

Suzuki GSX-R 600 2011

The top news in 600cc class for 2011 is Suzuki’s all-new  GSX-R 600. Suzuki engineers are very proud for bikes 9kg (20 pounds) loss, and that's a lot for this class. They also emphasize new Brembo monoblock brake calipers and Showa big piston forks (last year, Kawa was the first in the class with these type of forks, and it seems the improvement is noticeable). 

Results of first tests suggest that we are getting new 600cc king this year. It's that good. According to British MotorcycleNews.com first quick comparison test, new GSX-R is a bit better than Kawa, their last year winner. They put on the test all four super sport Japanese bikes and famous Triumph Daytona 675 (not new 675R). You can find the video on their youtube channel.

Now, this is not really the topic of this article, but I must say that there is also new GSX-R 750, which is one hell of a bike - in the class of its own. As you probably suppose, it is very similar to 600cc model, with same main new features.

GSX-R 600 in brief:

-          Color: White, Blue/White, Black

-          Seat Height: 810 mm (31.9 in)

-          Curb Weight: 187 kg (412 lbs)

-          Power: 125.8 HP (93 kW)

-          Price:

o       UK: 8,175 BRP

o       US: 11,599 USD

o       DE: 13,299 EUR

Triumph Daytona 675R

This is an updated Daytona 675, mostly targeted for the track use. They put new high-end forks on it, especially for this bike developed by Öhlins (43mm NIX30). Just like Suzuki, it got new Brembo monoblock calipers. It is also equipped with quick shifter, and bodywork was enriched with some carbon fiber. Instrumentation now includes a lap timer and programmable gear change lights.

Engine remained the same. This model is available exclusively in one special color scheme – Crystal White with Jet Black Belly Pan Split.

I wonder how MotorcycleNews.com test would end up if they got 675R instead of standard 675. Triumph claims new 675R is “the ultimate track tool”. :)

Daytona 675R in brief:

-          Color: Crystal White with Jet Black Belly Pan Split

-          Seat Height: 830 mm (32.7 in)

-          Curb Weight: 185 kg (412 lbs)

-          Power: 125 HP (92 kW)

-          Price:

o       UK: 9,799 BRP

o       US: 11,999 USD

o       DE: 12,740 EUR

Honda CBR600F

The legend is back, and I can’t tell you how glad I am. This time it’s derived directly from CB600F Hornet - and that’s not a bad thing at all. Honda’s 600F used to be top notch 600 bike for long time. It was quick, light and fun to ride, but at the same time it was practical and comfy enough daily use, commuting, and even some easy touring. Modern high spec 600s are faster, but you actually need them only if you want to race… and if racing is not most important to you, and you want full faired 600 sport bike, now you have a choice.

I must say I am more excited about new Honda CBR600F than about Suzuki or Triumph. If I could order a new 600cc bike right now, it would be this baby. I hope it will be worthy successor of CBR 600F4i.

Additionally – I am kinda astonished by Honda’s marketing; 600F and Crossrunner didn’t get almost any attention, while CBR250R ads, reviews and comments almost began boring me.

CBR600F in brief:

-          Color: Red-white, Blue-white, Black

-          Seat Height: 800 mm (31.5 in)

-          Curb Weight: 203 kg (210kg for the ABS model)

-          Power: 100.5 HP (75 kW)

-          Price:

o       UK: price not listed yet on Honda UK website

o       US: not available in USA

o       DE: 8,990 EUR

The others

Kawasaki ZX-6R, Yamaha R6 and Honda CBR600RR remained unchanged for 2011 and these are all fantastic bikes. Among lower spec 600 bikes there were no major changes, at least I couldn’t find any – somebody let me know if I missed something.

I am waiting for more comprehensive tests and hoping to get the chance to try some of these babies myself.