The 2002 Fireblade CBR954RR isn't just a face-lift. Beneath the fresh styling is a bigger, cleverer motor, updated suspension and brakes, new swingarm, a refined frame and lighter wheels and exhaust system.
There's a low, mean burbling coming from somewhere near my pants as my posterior is pummeled by a searing wave of torque. God, can you believe I've just written such tosh?
Want it all? You're not alone. The CBR600F is Britain's best-selling motorbike of all time and not without good reason: it really is all things to all men (and women)
I occasionally wonder if I shouldn't be more critical of new bikes at their press launches. The thing is, though there are very few perfect bikes, there are also very few complete duffers.
Have the latest sports 600s taken track focus to a level where it has limited their viability as road bikes? It certainly looks that way, but then looks can be deceiving...
Honda says: With the debut of the exciting new SH300i, Honda proudly presents the sleek and dynamic new standard of mid-displacement scooters for years to come.
Adventure Sports bikes are currently the fastest-growing market sector in motorcycling in Britain today. At 31% up on last year they are flicking two long-suspended fingers up at superbikes, who by comparison are only a measely 4% up year-on-year.
The 2004 Fireblade CBR1000RR is a brilliantly balanced package with a smooth, powerful motor that isn’t intimidating to use, all wrapped up in a superb chassis.