New CBR1000RR Headlines ’06 Hondas

American Honda's Motorcycle Division unveiled its powersports line-up for the 2006 model year September 7, at the MGM Grand Hotel in Las Vegas.

"This year's theme is the Power of Red'," said Ray Blank, American Honda's Motorcycle Division Senior Vice President, "Honda has the best people, the best product line-up and the best dealers in the industry...it's the Power of Red in action. With the product announced here tonight we will continue to be number one."

2006 Model Preview

CBR1000RR Sharing DNA with Honda's MotoGP winning RC211V, the CBR1000RR elevates its Superbike status to new high performance levels in 2006 thanks to extensive changes that sharpen handling, boost horsepower and reduce weight.

The focuses of many of the refinements were aimed at the liquid-cooled, 16-valve, inline four-cylinder 998cc motor. The cylinder head porting was changed to improve power in the mid- and upper-rpm ranges. The combustion chamber shape was changed to raise the compression ratio to 12.2:1.

The CBR1000RR gets a new intake camshaft to help increase power in the top of the rev range. New intake valves were added for increased power while the intake valve springs are changed from a single spring design to a double spring design for improved performance at high rpm. These changes have allowed the redline to be raised, but we don't have that figure yet. The Ram-air intake screen was redesigned for improved flow, while at the other end the exhaust system was redesigned for improved power and is now lighter.

The transmission receives new gears for 2006 to help improve engagement, while the clutch gets new needle bearings for improved feel and durability.

The chassis wasn't left alone, as the bike's geometry was changed for improved handling. The bike’s rake is now 23.45-degrees with 100mm of trail and a 55.2-inch wheelbase.

The fork receives new internal settings to improve suspension action from the front end of the bike. Out back the Unit-Pro Link suspension system gets a new linkage for improved handling and suspension action. The brakes on the CBR1000RR have been upgraded as well and now carry 320mm rotors up front instead of the previous 310mm units, and are still squeezed by four-piston, radial-mount calipers.

The bodywork on the new bike is brand new and features new upper, middle and lower cowls for easier access and updated styling. Three color combinations will be available including: Candy Blue/Yellow, red/black, silver/Metallic Silver and black. The MSRP is set at $11,299

CRF250R Honda innovation scores once again as the 2006 CRF250R boasts a unique dual-muffler exhaust system to improve handling and power.

Gold Wing The 2006 Honda Gold Wing elevates luxury motorcycling to a higher plane with the advent of satellite navigation, 80-watt premium audio, a cold weather comfort package and an industry first fully integrated rider airbag.

Interceptor/Interceptor ABS The enduring Interceptor boasts a host of changes for 2006, including a revamped VTEC system and a plethora of styling upgrades.

599 Back in the line for 2006, the 599 features a host of upgrades, including an inverted HMAS fork, two-piece mini-cowl with tinted flyscreen, and lots of detail touches.

CRF150F Hailed as the ideal ride for off-road adventure, the CRF150F redefines fun in 2006 thanks to an all-new engine with push-button electric starting, new transmission ratios and new suspension settings that provide even better handling.

NSF100 For decades, Honda has conjured up brilliant roadracing machines, and now for 2006 the all-new NSF100 takes its place in line as the ultimate roadracing starter kit. Designed for track use only, this performance 99cc four-stroke single will show aspiring young racers the quickest path to the top step of their local podium.