2010 Honda CBF600: A jump for 125 cc graduates

Honda offers CBF600 for 125 cc graduates

BILL PETRO FOR THE TORONTO STAR

Honda’s CBF600 isn’t a bargain basement model, coming as it does with ABS-linked brakes (usually about a $1,000 option) and a centrestand.

Steve Bond

SPECIAL TO THE STAR

Honda did the entire motorcycling community a huge service with its CBR125 new rider program. The little 125s have been selling like waffles in Belgium and riders are finding them an excellent introduction to the world of two wheels.

But after a year or so, what does a CBR125 rider trade up to? The next step in Honda's lineup was the CRF230 (in either trail or supermoto trim), a 750 Cruiser or the CBR600RR – a state of the art, hyper sportbike.

Not everyone will be attracted to any of these, so Honda Canada is bringing the CBF600 to the Frozen North as a stepping stone from the CBR125.

In fact, Honda will announce a sort of trade-in incentive program to keep current CBR125 owners in the Honda fold as soon as details are finalized.

I wondered about wonderful variations of 400 cc motorcycles available in European and Asian markets, but a Honda spokesperson said it would cost almost as much to bring a 400 to Canada as it does a 600.

The CBF600 isn't a bargain basement model – standard equipment includes ABS-linked brakes (usually about a $1,000 option), a centrestand, a seat that adjusts 15 mm over three positions and a two-position adjustable windscreen.

The aluminum frame keeps the weight down to 222 kg (489 lbs.) with full tank and all fluids. Anyone jumping directly off the 127 kg CBR125 will need to adjust for that, but the "standard" seat height of 770 mm is actually lower than the CBR, so that won't be intimidating.

The 41 mm front forks have 120 mm of travel and are preload adjustable while the rear shock is also preload-adjustable and boasts 125 mm of travel.

At Honda Canada's recent mini-press session, I had a brief ride on the CBF600 and came away impressed. The seat was adjusted to the highest position and my lanky frame wasn't overly compromised in the seat-to-peg relationship.

The riding position is neutral, controls are very light and the adjustable brake lever can be tailored to any size mitt.

The clutch engagement point and excellent low-end torque makes getting away from a stop a piece of cake.

Once underway, the fuel-injected, free-spinning CBR600RR-based motor exhibits a very linear powerband with no power spikes to catch the rider unaware. Gearbox effort likewise, is very light with a short crisp throw.

The twin front 296 mm discs squeezed by three-piston calipers have a moderate initial bite with good feel, and stopping power is easily modulated and very predictable.

Pricing hasn't been set, but the exchange rate with the Euro isn't all that favourable.

Honda Canada expects it to be in the $9,000 range – certainly under 10 grand and comparable to Yamaha's FZ6R.

I love middle-weights and the CBF600 is my kind of bike. Comfortable ergonomics, a centrestand, light weight, adequate wind protection and a torquey mid-sized motor for excellent fuel economy.

Honda will have a full range of accessories available as well as including colour-matched hard luggage so owners can tailor the bike to suit.

(Note the pics show a Euro model; Canadian bikes will be black.)

Honda's CBF600 fits quite nicely into the "trade up from a first bike" category but it wouldn't be out of line as a first motorcycle either. I could also see it appealing to experienced riders who don't want a cruiser or race replica.

Freelance writer Steve Bond reviews motorcycles for Wheels. stevebond8@yahoo.ca

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