 Honda's entry in the big-selling supersport 600 class was in considerable need of an update as, compared with Yamaha's track-oriented, sleekly styled R6 in particular, it seemed heavy and even a little old-fashioned. So Honda has updated it. The 2007 model has a new frame, engine and bodywork, and only the suspension is shared with its predecessor. It's worth making an effort in this class, too. Worldwide, this is the best-selling motorcycle category, and in sports-minded Britain it's stronger still, despite shrinking a little in recent times. Like many other classes, this is one which sells on the image of performance as much as its real-world usefulness. And why not? If it gives an owner pleasure, there's nothing to condemn as far as I'm concerned. The new CBR compares very well indeed in outright performance, as we discovered at the fabulous Barber Motorsports Park near Birmingham, Alabama, USA. The newly constructed circuit draped among the rolling, wooded hills is one of the finest I've ridden for its technical blend of swoops, curves and blind summits, and I have no doubt that the enjoyment was enhanced by the ability of the Honda.
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