The CBR600RR receives some minor updates to help boost midrange power, beginning with a new set of crossover balance tubes on the exhaust header pipes. An "exhaust pressure valve" in the muffler similar in concept to the CBR1000RR's setup also contributes to improved breathing, and a new shot-peening process in the ports helps intake airflow. We've heard reports that these relatively minor changes result in some significant gains in the 8,000-12,000 rpm range. Other changes include new monoblock radial-mount front brake calipers, plus some minor styling changes to the fairing panels. Weight is said to be identical to last year's CBR600RR, which was the lightweight of the 600 class.
As we reported in the September issue, both the CBR600RR and CBR1000RR will be available with Honda's new Combined ABS anti-lock/linked braking system as an option. The Combined ABS is a brake-by-wire system (see Late Braking in the September issue for more details) that is designed specifically for usage on Honda's CBR series sportbikes, employing sophisticated hardware and software that enables seamless anti-lock braking combined with simultaneous linked braking between the front and rear brakes. The Combined ABS system not only adds $1000 in cost (the standard CBR600RR will sell for $9799, the Combined ABS version $10,799; the standard CBR1000RR will retail for $11,999, the Combined ABS version $12,999), but also an additional 16-17 pounds in weight.