Honda CBF 600 S 2012 — Specifications

It's not the clothes that make the monk – The CBF 600 S embraced this adage in 2008 for its first evolution, 4 years after its introduction. It will take a very attentive eye to spot the aesthetic differences between 2 model years: the facelift is very subtle, bordering on imperceptible. But underneath, a lot has changed. Under the fuel tank now live the frame and engine of the new Hornet, that is to say, no less than the mechanics of the CBR 600 RR '07.

But on the front and rear, it's not easy to recognize the '07 from the '08 – Only the fork legs change appearance. A recessed groove on each side dynamizes this protective appendage. Apart from that and the turn signals, which have become white, that's all there is to it.

Let's dig a little deeper into the technical documentation to see what Honda revised on its mid-displacement, all-rounder for everyone. It was necessary to find a modern engine to meet Euro 3, revise the level of performance upwards and also lose a little weight. No problem: the Hornet has already pinched the engine from the 600 CBR; the CBF does the same. We therefore find the lightest and most recent 600 in the Honda range in the CBF. Even detuned to 78 horsepower, the engine should significantly improve performance and driving enjoyment. Lighter than the previous model, more lively, equipped with PGM-FI injection, more compact, and with more availability at low and mid-range speeds, the 4-cylinder is ready to face its most dangerous rivals: the Suzuki Bandit and the Yamaha 600 FZ6 Fazer.

For the frame, Honda reaffirms its confidence in the "mono-backbone" structure that equips the CBF 600 and Hornet since their creation. However, for 2008, it is no longer steel but aluminum (normal, it comes from the '07 Hornet). More resistant and more rigid, it is formed of 3 large molded parts (the steering column, the upper frame and the swingarm supports) welded together. This simple and lightweight structure integrates the engine as a load-bearing element in its own right. The suspensions remain identical, except for the addition of a fork preload adjustment. It is on the brakes that the CBF 600 also evolves. The discs, now fixed with 6 bolts, are equipped with standard calipers as standard but can receive the assistance of a CBS and ABS system as an option. The version with ABS/Combined braking combines the rear brake pedal to the central piston of the front right caliper (which has 3 pistons), so as to provide an optimal distribution of braking force, particularly when the rear brake is used alone and firmly. An integrated timer device also ensures that a measured action on the rear brake does not cause or little effect on the front brake. The other 5 pistons of the front calipers are conventionally actuated by the lever, offering optimal braking power.

Claiming ease and conviviality, the CBF 600 continues this quest by offering a larger 1-liter fuel tank, a revised dashboard with the integration of a fuel gauge, the axis of the central stand has been repositioned and its lug modified to reduce the effort required to place the CBF on its stand, and the clever 3-height adjustable seat and 2-position adjustable screen are retained. A HISS coded key immobilizer will safeguard its conservation between your hands.

Several options are available to personalize your CBF 600 S '08:

• A 45 l top case available in the machine's colors and capable of holding two full-face helmets. This top case, equipped with a passenger backrest and a quick-release system, can be easily installed on the luggage rack.

• A set of two polyurethane armrests to be installed on the top case to increase passenger comfort.

• A 35-liter capacity top case, easily detachable and also offered in the colors of the fairing. This top case can hold a full-face helmet or two jet models. It is installed on an injection-molded plastic support.

• A set of specific side cases available in the colors of the fairing. Available in 29 and 33 liter versions.

• A robust expandable bag designed to fit the top case and facilitate luggage transport.

• A set of two robust nylon bags designed to facilitate luggage transport in the side cases. 16 liter capacity with a front pocket adorned with a "Honda Wing" emblem.

• A very practical magnetic tank bag with a 13 liter capacity. Can hold A4 format items.

• An AVERTO type alarm with motion detector, siren and backup battery. The low consumption standby mode protects the battery from possible discharge.

• A tinted light gray polycarbonate screen designed to cover the optics of the CBF600 naked and provide additional protection for the rider at high speed.

• An adhesive tank protector designed to prevent scratches.

• A set of heated grips with temperature settings and battery protection circuit.

• A robust U-shaped lock designed to find place in the compartment arranged under the passenger seat.

• An elastic net that secures luggage when transported on the passenger seat or on the luggage rack.

• A robust outdoor UV and rain protection cover.

• A set of chrome elements intended to dress the instrumentation of the Naked version (speedometer + tachometer).

M.B - manufacturer photos