Honda CBR900RR

Infobox Motorcycle
name = Honda CBR900RR


aka = Fireblade
manufacturer = Honda
production = 1992-2003
predecessor =
successor = CBR1000RR
parent_company =
class = super bike
platform =
related = Honda CBR600RR
Honda CBR1000RR
Honda CB900F
similar = Suzuki GSXR1000
Yamaha YZF-R1
Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R
Ducati 916

The Honda CBR900RR is a large displacement sport bike introduced in 1992 by Honda as the first of the Honda Fireblade models. It was designed by Tadeo Baba.

History

CBR900RR

The CBR900RR was introduced in 1993 and was fitted with an convert|893|cc|cuin|abbr=on inline-4 engine. When introduced, it set a precedent for light weight in the super bike class. At convert|453|lb|kg|abbr=on with a full tank of gas, the CBR900RR was just convert|4|lb|kg|abbr=on heavier than Honda's own CBR600F2, and convert|76|lb|kg|abbr=on lighter than the next-lightest open-class machine at the time, the Yamaha FZR1000. Minor changes to the '94 model included an improved shift drum to cure notchy shifting, and steadier mirrors.

In a move to refine the CBR900RR's handling traits over bumpy pavement, the 1995 model's suspension was upgraded with revised spring and damping rates, and a compression adjuster was added to the front fork. More aggressive bodywork incorporated a "cut reflector" design headlight and fewer of the CBR's unique fairing holes. Slimmer and firmer footpegs were patterned after the RC45 and a shift linkage replaced the original model's backward pedal. A new instrument panel included an electronic speedometer that measured speed from the countershaft sprocket. The only engine change in 1995 was the replacement of the aluminum valve cover with a magnesium piece.

CBR918RR

1996 brought the first major changes to the CBR900RR. In order to achieve a more optimized balance of rigidity, Honda significantly altered the 1996 CBR's chassis and suspension. The frame and swingarm were fabricated from larger, thinner-walled extrusions for reduced torsional rigidity. The fork and shock internals were re-designed, and the swingarm pivot raised by convert|5|mm|in|abbr=on. Revised ergonomics brought the bars convert|10|mm|in|abbr=on higher and swept back five degrees more than earlier models, along with a slimmer gas tank. Engine updates included a bump in displacement to convert|918|cc|cuin|abbr=on via a convert|1|mm|in|abbr=on bore increase, slightly higher compression, a curved radiator, larger muffler, extra clutch plates, smaller alternator, and the addition of a throttle position sensor. With the revised motorcycle came a revised name of CBR918RR. The 1996 model carried over to 1997 unchanged except for the updates to color/graphics offerings.

In 1998, Honda continued subtle refinements in the CBR918RR's chassis. It saw frame stiffness closer to the original model's, revised suspension internals, and convert|5|mm|in|abbr=on less triple clamp offset (an almost universal aftermarket upgrade to previous models). New brake calipers acted on larger front discs, the fairing was re-shaped and raised footpegs subtly changed ergonomics again. Eighty percent of the engine's internals were all-new to reduce weight and minimize friction; other updates included redesigned combustion chambers and porting, aluminum composite cylinders, new pistons, a smaller and lighter clutch pack, revised gearbox ratios, larger radiator, and a new stainless steel exhaust header.

CBR929RR

A major revision for the open-class Honda resulted in the CBR929RR, aimed squarely at the Yamaha YZF-R1. A completely new convert|929|cc|cuin|abbr=on engine incorporated fuel injection, more oversquare cylinder dimensions, larger valves set at a narrower included angle, lighter internals, and an all-titanium, HTEV-equipped exhaust system. The "pivotless" chassis had the swingarm mounted to the engine cases but incorporated a brace underneath the engine. Updated suspension and brakes included an inverted front fork and huge convert|330|mm|in|abbr=on front discs; and the convert|16|in|mm|abbr=on front wheel was replaced for a more common convert|17|in|mm|abbr=on wheel.

CBR954RR

In 2002, engine capacity increased to convert|954|cc|cuin|abbr=on which resulted in the CBR954 name. Larger injectors and radiator, re-mapped electronic fuel injection, and a more powerful computer were also added. The bodywork and fairings were reworked for a sleeker, more aerodynamic feel. The frame was strengthened and a more rigid swingarm added and the riding position/pegs were raised to allow for greater lean angles. Dry weight reduced to convert|168|kg|lb|abbr=on.

The CBR954RR would be replaced by an all new CBR1000RR in 2004.

pecifications

All specifications are manufacturer claimed unless specified.