Honda dropped the pebble in 1987 that eventually became a tidal ( and supersport title ) wave, but the first-generation machines with their steel frames, four carbs, and streamlined bodies have been all but forgotten. Here is a substantially stock example whose clean presentation belies its 28 years and 33,000 miles.
1989 Honda CBR600F for sale on eBay
Returning to an inline four after the V-4 Interceptors, the CBR600F claimed 85 hp from its 598 water cooled cc's. The crankcase and cylinder bases are cast together in innovative manufacturing process, limiting crankshaft flex. The twin beam frame also supported the steering head from the top of the engine, but very little of that could be seen under the all-covering soap bar. Forks from Showa and Pro-Link rear were pre-load adjustable, and Nissin brakes were not oversized but rated excellent.
For the miles and condition, the CBR presented here would be expected to be restored or at least a re-paint. Whether a very careful rider or long-past rehabilitation, the factory colors and equipment look great. The Georgia owner says this in the eBay auction:
Up for auction is a beautiful unmolested first year production 1989 CBR600 in the rare Red, White, Blue color combination that is all original except the muffler. The original plastic and fairing is in incredible shape along with the factory white wheels. The white is a beautiful pearl that pops in the light. No fade or clear coat issues. No tears in the seat. No leaks in the engine and the under carriage is very clean and appears it has never been ridden in the rain. You would be hard pressed to find a cleaner CBR600 from this era. Bike has always been garaged and it's obvious with the condition of the paint. This collector's bike is the first year of the CBR and not the Hurricane. Just installed a new battery and bike fires right up every time. All lights and gauges work as they should. There is nothing wrong with this bike! I doubt you will find a cleaner CBR600 from this era in this condition.
Though the factory had the resources and riders to make its mark on AMA Superbike and Supersport, the cost savings afforded by the full fairing allowed privateers to take the CBR600F to the next level. Great right out of the box, the bike excelled in classes where major updates were ruled out. Alloy frames and adjustable everything would come to the CBR600F, but the initial years of production were a revolution in their own right. This clean example deserves a closer look at least...
-donn
