Bargain bikes are the way to go. Especially in countries where the season is short. Low price, often very low mileage and well cared for, mostly. Riding for fun is anyway a luxury, for most of us there are the necessities in life that have to go first so a bargain bike is a great option. In soon (next year) 50 years of riding I´ve only bought one bike brand new and that was in -76. And still I´ve had my fun, and will continue for as long as I am able to. And for a reasonable cost. Great series!
The 600 supersport catagory was my favourite back in the day. I had several in the late 90’s, early 2000’s. It’s a shame the manufacturers have more or less dropped it.
I sold my 2008 gsxr 600 to get a 899 Panigale and I had to change most aspects of how I ride. The in-line fours are so smooth you could ride the gsxr in 6th gear at 30 mph. As you know with the Pani you need to be in 3rd or if you’re lucky 4th. The in-line 4 bikes are great machines.
Loving the idea of these 'bargain bikes' concept as much as I do the 'classic bike' series. The 600RR is certainly a bike 30+ years ago I would of jumped on in a heartbeat, though today it certainly wouldn't be a graceful dismount.
The early 2000's were an amazing time for the middle weight sports bike. The 600cc class is my favourite class of bike. Enough power to have fun, not enough to scare you witless. I had an 04 Gsxr 600 as my daily, used to teach CBT's on it. Perfect for everyday use. I do fancy a RR as a 2nd bike now. Thanks for the new series.
Correction, the Fireblade looks like the CBR600RR; the 600 came out first, followed by the next generation of Thous in 2004 - 5VY R1, CBR1000 Fireblade and ZX-10R C. Those were glory days. I remember when I was out riding with my mates in 2003 and one of them had the first CBR600RRs, it looked exactly like Rossi's RCV211. Back in the day, we were weaning ourselves off our NC30s and ZXR400s and the CBR600RR was one of most avant garde looking 600s. One might argue that the motor in this generation RR is more useable than the last generation prior to it being discontinued.
I owned a 1988 CBR-600F Hurricane back in the 90’s. Drove it for many years. Absolutely rock solid reliable and faster than stink. Its the one bike I regret having sold. I still miss it.
I had this exact bike, very fun and handled very nicely. Today I have a 2002 GSXR600 that I took out to the track last weekend after doing a valve adjustment, full suspension service, new clutch, brake fluid flush, among other things. I had a great time zooming around the track on my 21 year old bike!
I’ve got a 2005 version in black and silver, had it since 2007. It’s everything a fast bike should Beto me, a high pitched screamer that brings a smile to your face, especially after 10000 revs, it flies. Sadly, speed cameras and a bad back have stopped me riding it….but it’s never going anywhere.
Great vid! I own a gsxr600 k5, zx6r 09 and a Daytona 675 from 2011. I think these bikes are the perfect size and power for the road. No need of silly electronics. Good on fuel, great on tires, cheap insurance, no crazy expenses.. Everything in the wrist, no need of TC.. I love them all. My Gixxer as my daily already covered 67 000 kms. 18 years old but still goes superb and it's ultra reliable. And the best bit it only cost peanuts when purchased compared to a new bike..
Late nineties early 2000s most of my riding buddies myself included were trading in our blades and R1s etc. for 600s 😊 much more fun. The bigger bikes may catch you on a straight only to be out braked and passed through the bends by a well ridden 600. Strange enough never ridden the CBR however did own the ZXR, R6 & GSXR. Yes I was younger, lighter and fitter back then great riding days for sure. Would love to get back on one but suspect my older bones and arthritis may get the better of me 😊. Great review Andy an awesome bike at a reasonable cost, we don’t really need all the electronics they come with nowadays to have brilliant fun. 👍
had a 2006 with termignoni exhaust, man it was loud, loved loved loved that bike, over 12K it went absolutely mental, went from a 600 to 899 panigale, the pani tips in and turns with utter confidence. hand on heart i think the 600 sounded better, the 600 was definitely more playful. got fed up with screaming on motorways, think about 6k at 70mph, always trying too kick it up another gear, otherwise an awesome bike and good for a beginner the early 2000s seemed to be the era before ABS and cat exhausts, proper analogue goodness
Great format TMF. More of these please. Love the noughties japanese sportsbikes, cheap, reliable, light and loads of fun. I bought my '03 gixxer 750 for £2k and there's no bike, car or aircraft that can match the performance and fun for that money. Modern >£20k bikes just don't make sense to me,.
You'll find that bike in that condition has been owned by an enthusiast. Those discs are not standard and a proper pipe so chances are the suspension has also been "breathed on". Brilliant bike that loves being revved. Great series, VFR750 and 800 next please
I had an 04 RR. Did 13k on it, caned it mercilessly on road and track. Never missed a beat. Only thing that broke was the trip meter button - common issue. First ever bike I got my knee down on - at Donington Park. The handling is sublime. A jewel of a bike out of the box. Obviously you have to rev it, but great bikes.
I had a '97 CBR600 for 20 years, superb bike. Loads of fun. Commuted and toured on it. Gave it to my brother about 5 years ago in a spell of mistaken generosity, and it's still going.
A great race bike. Have raced one of these with a lightly tuned engine and modified gearbox and was an absolute peach. Perfect handling and perfect power for most uk tracks.
Not a real sports bike fan boy, but that ride was fun!! Camera gave us a real feel for the fun of this mid sized “go bike” for a great price. Love this review and the ride … Excellent my friend!! 👍
Good series concept this one; this and the so-called 'classics' series. These cheaper, achievable bikes are infinitely more interesting to me than some house-deposit 2023 model, and there's a much greater variety of bike available before everyone started slimming their ranges down.
20 year old motorcycles are great deals. Many have reasonably low miles and less than 25% cost of new. The downside is shops may refuse to work on it, so it's important to ensure parts availability and have the ability to repair yourself. I have an old Honda and BMW I bought cheap, and considering a beautiful 2007 Harley-Davision Heritage Softail for $8k.
Nice to see this 600 get some air time! just spent a few weeks in June refurbishing my old CBR400RR and it's now awesome, first big bike I had after passing my test in 1994 and it's now even better than I remember, I swear it steers by telepathy, MOT due on Friday wish me luck.
I agree - that CBR, and others like it, spanked my Ducati at too many track sessions to remember! Quickness, grippy tires and great brakes can add up to quick lap times that were hard to beat back in the day, and proabably today as well! So many times I got passed down the inside going into turn one...by one of these great Japanese middle weight sportbikes!
I've ridden a few bikes in my time (both types snigger snigger) and there's a lot to be said for a two-wheeled 'cheap as chips' bikes. Another cheap as chips machine is the old Kawasaki ZX-9R.
Hi Andy really enjoyed the first bargain bike review, it may sound strange but you can probably get more pleasure buying a bike from this era, firstly riding it of course, but also restoring it to it's former glory. So double pleasure. Look forward to see what else you choose to review, thank you.
So true. I just spent the whole of June refurbishing my old CBR400RR from the 90's and got a lot of pleasure from doing that, just waiting for an MOT this Friday and then I can get to grips with new tyres and brakes etc. I reckon it will ride even better than it did when I stopped riding it 20 years ago because of the advancement in tyre technology. Of course I will have to wait until Friday to learn more!!
@@stephenpotts8170 Thank you so much, I hope so too, only stopped riding it cos I wanted to live long enough to see the kids grow up and now one of them has his own bike.
@@davidbarton7463 Yes I did the same, mind you I'm 66 and have been back riding since I was 45, since retiring I ride and tour, just happy to take it nice and steady these days...
I have a 2005 CBR600RR, purchased in 2016 for £3.5k. Not lost a penny on it. Ultra reliable. It's got the USD forks and in the black with silver wing piant scheme. I love the bike and will never sell it. Honda build quality is exceptional. I had a GSXR750 2006 before and sold it in 2014. Lovely bike but build quality is not a patch on Honda. Suspension setup is key on this bike. Mine came setup for track and would buckaroo me on Derbyshire country roads. Softened it all off and it's a lovely ride.
Try a VFR 4 750 or 800 Honda compared to in-line four, it’s a totally different animal Big Time. I’ve got my ST1300. Same lineage as Pan, but VFR 4 750 or 800 Honda is in a whole other realm compared to CB’s. and I’ve had two CB 750’s.
Love the concept of the budget bike series of videos.. Especially if you consider how many of us are feeling the ‘pinch’!! Just shows you can have fun without spending a fortune! For example, I have just as much fun on my 31 year old VFR750 as I do on my other modern bike (2021 speed triple 1200rs)! Actually, I’m some cases the older bikes are more alive… Keep up the brilliant work! It’s also great to see you ride the same roads I do on your test route (I’m in Aylesbury) 🤓
I only discovered one of your videos and subscribed recently, but I never actually visited your channel until about half an hour ago. Truly Awesome!!! Initially, I bookmarked you under my 'Motorbikes' favourites, and thought nothing of it. But you fly planes too!!! As someone interested in helicopters, with the occasional side view on planes, I wish I'd found you earlier, but anyhow - Thanks for the wealth of content you've provided, I've loved all your bike videos so far and shall, no doubt, enjoy ploughing through it all. Excellent job! I wish you all the best.
Another good review of what is arguably a fantastic road/track bike, Andy. Back when Honda and the other three Japanese manufacturers had a wide choice of bikes in their line-ups as opposed to the sea of adv bikes and cruisers now. Sorry, but not too sure about this example, though. I'm sure it's great to ride and will be brilliant on track but this one's too far gone down the road with tasteless after market tat, imo. There are far nicer examples out there. (Sorry, SBC). The most original, stock specimens are always going to be the most appealing, surely? I have a mint, completely stock 954 Fireblade and the interest it generates at is astonishing for a 20 year old bike. Looking forward to your next overview.
I had a 2001 CBR600F a few years ago. It was absolutely spotless despite chalking up 60K miles. The build quality of Honda of this age is excellent. And for an IL4 middleweight with about 100BHP it was quick when wound up! I think I paid less than £2K for it. Utter bargain. The RR riding position was/is a bit too extreme for me. Great review!
I own a 2007 cbr600rr wouldn't sell it for the world. Picked mine up in 2020 for £3250 with 19,000mls, which I thought a bargain. Love it to bits. very flickable and easy to ride. Trying to keep mine as stock as possible. Spent about a grand on it to make it great again. Mine needs to get to 9000prm before it takes off. Agree with your comments about how simple the bike is, and I like that about this bike. I have used it on track and I agree it is more than capable and was amazed just how it handled. Great vid..
Great to see you doing reviews like this. Will certainly appeal to the masses of die-hard bikers on limited budgets. This particular review brought back happy memories of its bigger brother, my much-lamented RR4 Fireblade back in 2008. Thanks again. Safe riding and continued best wishes to you and the family.
Brought back good memories of my 600 Bandit. Although unlike this CBR600RR it was naked, the 4 cyl 600 engine was just great to scream around on. I actually preferred it to the 1200 Bandit I had later. So totally agree the smaller bikes are more fun. Great review!
I used to dispatch ride in London on the first iteration of this bike in the late 1980s before it became an RR 😂 I can't think of a bike I've owned that has been more fun.
I have an 05 cbr 600f4i which is the compromise between a cb and rr. Best bike I have ever owned, 110hp motor but still upright seating and comfortable for commuting. A comfortable version of the RR. Love these 14k redline, 4 cylinder bikes
Ryan F9 put out a video in the last week that explains why the mid size fours fell foul of emissions rules. It boils down to the need for high rpm to produce real power. When it gets up and goes the combustion temperature goes so high that it ignites the nitrogen in the air charge, thereby producing high levels of nitrogen dioxide. A slower revving engine, often the same size v-twin, produces less NO2 so is easier to bring into line with advancing emissions regs.
I love hearing the four cylinders wind out. It’s such a beautiful sound. Had a Yamaha FZ6 years ago and I wish I could take it out right now. I’m old enough to Really appreciate it. Why do we sell our motorcycles? Sold it for $4500 bucks with 1200 miles on it. Somebody go back in time and smack me. Thanks Andy for a walk down memory lane.
I own a 600 four and, although I'm a massive fan of twins, my 600 is a keeper. It will tour, its comfortable (yam xj6 2011) it carries 2 and luggage no problem, its fast and fun on normal roads, its smooth and although I'm not in love with it, I can't think of a better £3k bike that would do all it does...
Would really be interested in the ZX400R, Initially i didn't think the UK was getting the ZX from what i Read somewhere but would be Great if we did. I Would never Buy a Parallel Twin Ever after my Experience with the MT07 Tracer, (Sold), Got my Gixer 6 and a CBR250R, that'll do me. As mentioned, Late 90's onwards were Great for Bikes that Put a Grin on your Face, Nowadays, Some New Bikes have Lost their Personality.
Great vlog mate Picked the 600 up on day release 23/03/03 number plate CX03 RCV best bike I owned took it assen 2005 from north wales then Barcelona Moro gp 2006 used it for work daily should never have sold it ,currently have a Cbr650r love that as well
I felt sorry for the gearbox....a bit of rev matching please! Looks a cleanish bike but needs a few £100 spending to get rid of the tat and return it to stock. Cheers Alistair 👍
Mr Missenden Flyer, it would seem you have willed it into existence with this review as Honda is releasing a new CBR600RR 😄, Can't wait to get your thoughts when it comes out 😊
Thanks Mr. Flyer. That was a blast, literally from the past lol. How I remember these and (similar) screaming past me as I rode to and from work on my GPZ500S. Seems like an absolute bargain and on video looks super condition too. I really enjoy these outings on the older bikes please keep it up. Ride safe and always with a smile. :>)
I have a 1981 Honda CB 650 Custom lovely bike it's in great nick not built for speed as when u reach 50 miles an hour the engine is at a fairly high rev could do with a 5th.gear it is nice for touring handle bars are a good design u sit up straight in the saddle..
I bought my 8500 mile K6GSXR 1000 for £5000 beyond fast enough for me,, and got a 15000 miles SV1000s for £2000 ,, older bikes make sense,,, and you won't be dropping money 🤑🤑 great video thanks 🙏 From northern Ireland ☘️😲☘️😲😲☘️ and do most of the work on them 😊
I had an 09 special edition. Amazing bike. So quick and great handling. Comfy and stable. Sold it as it just didn’t make sense under 80mph and found myself just going too fast! Wish I’d kept it!
In 2020 (yes just as covid hit), I bought a 2004 CBR600F4i, really just because I had always fancied a CBR600. Even that, not being quite as prone as the RR, was uncomfortable for me, but it was fun, especially over 5500rpm. Sold it after a while as my arthritic joints couldn’t cope, but I was pleased I had tried one. There are rumours, that Honda and Kawasaki might be bringing out 400cc inline fours. Ok, so a 400 doesn’t sound like fun, but I had a Honda CB400 SuperFour in the late 90’s/2000’s, and through the twisties, it could certainly hold it’s own. Silky smooth, with a gorgeous sound track when revved hard (especially with an aftermarket end can), up to the 13k red line………ooooo 😊Let’s hope the rumours are true. 😉 I look forward to seeing what other bikes you come up with in this series, especially with new bike prices sky rocketing.
For ten years, before Honda pulled the plug, I used to organise an annual trackday with Ron Haslam’s Race school. There was a choice of Blades or 600RRs. Of the two I much preferred the RR as I’m only 65 kg in normal clothing and found the Blade that much more difficult to muscle around. On the Blade you could do the whole of Donington international circuit in 2nd which made it less enjoyable. So RR all the way. 👍
Oh the good old days ,600cc sports bikes were great in the day . And still would be if produced ! Your right in regards to the comfort but you did get used to it .
I remember getting a courtesy 600rr when honda serviced by vfr800 20 odd years ago - found it very uncomfortable (not surprising) and an absolute head case up high in the rev range.
In 2008 I owned one of these (2003 model year). Hated every minute of it, spent every ride trying not to die (more about my lack of experience back then than the bike I guess). The same year I rode one at the Ron Haslam race school, loved it. Definitely better suited to the track IMO.
Bought one early this year as a track bike I could Mot - paid 2k, previous owner had crashed it into something muddy 🤣. Spent around 900 on rubber, plugs, fluids and other bits. Absolutely great bike for thrashing around a track without too much fear of laying her down. Plenty of power and pretty damm smooth compared to my 899. Always loved the look since Rossis Rcv212, don't think it's aged at all and will probably buy another in better nick if I get the chance! Great review!
I love 90s & 00s sporty bikes - they look, sound and go great. I know you've had a go on Richy Vida's VFR800, but you really ought to get hold of a Gen 5 and let us know what you think. In my opinion, the best £1500 you can spend on a bike.
Hi Andy rode one of these bikes great machine agree with you with the weight on the wrists but overall good machine looks like you had fun great review aswell😊
Great new segment. Thus suits those of us who don't quite have the budget of a person with several bikes in their garage. Brilliant first bike to start it off especially for someone who grew up watching road racing will be very familiar with these class of bikes. Brilliant.
@@TheMissendenFlyer at thus stage in my life its like a large sweet shop. I can't decide. I love so many different bikes now. When I was young it was sports. My body has reprogrammed my brain to accept a more age friendly approach. Also could you maybe add to the segment cost of upkeep. I know Italian steeds can have expensive services.
Thanks Andy great idea reviewing and riding older machines! :) I have had many bikes since i was about 16 (I'm in my mid 60's) but I did own a 1998 Suzuki GSX600R (Ram Air) until 2004 and loved it, it's a bit more powerful than the Honda you tested and a bit more of a scalpel (not as forgiving as the CBR). I then went to a new 2004 Triumph Sprint ST 955i and also a 2004 Triumph Daytona 955i. The big Daytona is the oldest one of three Triumphs I own now, I may never part with it. Maybe you could test one one day. :)
![Megan Thee Stallion - Neva Play (feat. RM) [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/TpYTyAaTRts/mqdefault.jpg)
I always thought the mid 2000s RR was a great bike, way ahead of its time, Still looks gorgeous. Still looks modern
Bargain bikes are the way to go. Especially in countries where the season is short. Low price, often very low mileage and well cared for, mostly. Riding for fun is anyway a luxury, for most of us there are the necessities in life that have to go first so a bargain bike is a great option. In soon (next year) 50 years of riding I´ve only bought one bike brand new and that was in -76. And still I´ve had my fun, and will continue for as long as I am able to. And for a reasonable cost. Great series!
The 600 supersport catagory was my favourite back in the day. I had several in the late 90’s, early 2000’s. It’s a shame the manufacturers have more or less dropped it.
Is having a bit of a comeback now though thanks to Kawasaki it seems!
I was going to mention that and their 4 cyclinder 400.
@@TheMissendenFlyerAprilia look to be following too with the RS440
ReL bike for real men/women .
This is a bit more like it for most of us...
That's about right!
True mate.
I need something even cheaper still.
I sold my 2008 gsxr 600 to get a 899 Panigale and I had to change most aspects of how I ride. The in-line fours are so smooth you could ride the gsxr in 6th gear at 30 mph. As you know with the Pani you need to be in 3rd or if you’re lucky 4th. The in-line 4 bikes are great machines.
Love my 2004 600RR, hours of fun, ridden it round track and never missed a beat. Honda reliability and still a head turner to this day ❤🖤
The brilliant ProLink rear suspension massively better than anything on mid engined bikes today.
Loving the idea of these 'bargain bikes' concept as much as I do the 'classic bike' series. The 600RR is certainly a bike 30+ years ago I would of jumped on in a heartbeat, though today it certainly wouldn't be a graceful dismount.
The early 2000's were an amazing time for the middle weight sports bike. The 600cc class is my favourite class of bike. Enough power to have fun, not enough to scare you witless. I had an 04 Gsxr 600 as my daily, used to teach CBT's on it. Perfect for everyday use. I do fancy a RR as a 2nd bike now. Thanks for the new series.
My pleasure!
Correction, the Fireblade looks like the CBR600RR; the 600 came out first, followed by the next generation of Thous in 2004 - 5VY R1, CBR1000 Fireblade and ZX-10R C. Those were glory days. I remember when I was out riding with my mates in 2003 and one of them had the first CBR600RRs, it looked exactly like Rossi's RCV211. Back in the day, we were weaning ourselves off our NC30s and ZXR400s and the CBR600RR was one of most avant garde looking 600s. One might argue that the motor in this generation RR is more useable than the last generation prior to it being discontinued.
I owned a 1988 CBR-600F Hurricane back in the 90’s. Drove it for many years. Absolutely rock solid reliable and faster than stink. Its the one bike I regret having sold. I still miss it.
I had this exact bike, very fun and handled very nicely.
Today I have a 2002 GSXR600 that I took out to the track last weekend after doing a valve adjustment, full suspension service, new clutch, brake fluid flush, among other things. I had a great time zooming around the track on my 21 year old bike!
03-06 first gens are still great bikes, just you and the bike no help aids.
I currently have a 05, absolutely love it.
I’ve got a 2005 version in black and silver, had it since 2007. It’s everything a fast bike should Beto me, a high pitched screamer that brings a smile to your face, especially after 10000 revs, it flies. Sadly, speed cameras and a bad back have stopped me riding it….but it’s never going anywhere.
Great vid! I own a gsxr600 k5, zx6r 09 and a Daytona 675 from 2011.
I think these bikes are the perfect size and power for the road.
No need of silly electronics. Good on fuel, great on tires, cheap insurance, no crazy expenses..
Everything in the wrist, no need of TC..
I love them all.
My Gixxer as my daily already covered 67 000 kms.
18 years old but still goes superb and it's ultra reliable.
And the best bit it only cost peanuts when purchased compared to a new bike..
Agreed!
I owned a 600rr in 2006. Loved that bike, miss it today. Best bike Honda did when they had the exhaust under the seat.
Late nineties early 2000s most of my riding buddies myself included were trading in our blades and R1s etc. for 600s 😊 much more fun. The bigger bikes may catch you on a straight only to be out braked and passed through the bends by a well ridden 600. Strange enough never ridden the CBR however did own the ZXR, R6 & GSXR. Yes I was younger, lighter and fitter back then great riding days for sure. Would love to get back on one but suspect my older bones and arthritis may get the better of me 😊. Great review Andy an awesome bike at a reasonable cost, we don’t really need all the electronics they come with nowadays to have brilliant fun. 👍
Couldn’t agree more!
I've bought an 06 in September and I absolutely love it.
had a 2006 with termignoni exhaust, man it was loud, loved loved loved that bike, over 12K it went absolutely mental, went from a 600 to 899 panigale, the pani tips in and turns with utter confidence. hand on heart i think the 600 sounded better, the 600 was definitely more playful.
got fed up with screaming on motorways, think about 6k at 70mph, always trying too kick it up another gear, otherwise an awesome bike and good for a beginner
the early 2000s seemed to be the era before ABS and cat exhausts, proper analogue goodness
Great format TMF. More of these please.
Love the noughties japanese sportsbikes, cheap, reliable, light and loads of fun. I bought my '03 gixxer 750 for £2k and there's no bike, car or aircraft that can match the performance and fun for that money. Modern >£20k bikes just don't make sense to me,.
You'll find that bike in that condition has been owned by an enthusiast. Those discs are not standard and a proper pipe so chances are the suspension has also been "breathed on". Brilliant bike that loves being revved. Great series, VFR750 and 800 next please
Just fall in love with this bike 🚲 I need to buy it, the sound, and the speed 🚄 🚅 my goodness ❤️🙏🏻❤️
I had an 04 RR. Did 13k on it, caned it mercilessly on road and track. Never missed a beat. Only thing that broke was the trip meter button - common issue.
First ever bike I got my knee down on - at Donington Park. The handling is sublime. A jewel of a bike out of the box. Obviously you have to rev it, but great bikes.
Great idea with the budge bike series, I've always been a fan of content like this and there isn't enough of it around.
Glad to hear it!
I had a '97 CBR600 for 20 years, superb bike. Loads of fun. Commuted and toured on it. Gave it to my brother about 5 years ago in a spell of mistaken generosity, and it's still going.
Very cool!
Great bike. Owned a red one back in 2008. Put a smile on my face every time I rode it. You’re right about the comfort though!
Still a great looking motorcycle and those engines last forever as long as you keep up with basic maintenance. Great video!
A great race bike. Have raced one of these with a lightly tuned engine and modified gearbox and was an absolute peach. Perfect handling and perfect power for most uk tracks.
Not a real sports bike fan boy, but that ride was fun!! Camera gave us a real feel for the fun of this mid sized “go bike” for a great price. Love this review and the ride … Excellent my friend!! 👍
Glad you enjoyed it!
Good series concept this one; this and the so-called 'classics' series. These cheaper, achievable bikes are infinitely more interesting to me than some house-deposit 2023 model, and there's a much greater variety of bike available before everyone started slimming their ranges down.
Glad you like them!
20 year old motorcycles are great deals. Many have reasonably low miles and less than 25% cost of new. The downside is shops may refuse to work on it, so it's important to ensure parts availability and have the ability to repair yourself. I have an old Honda and BMW I bought cheap, and considering a beautiful 2007 Harley-Davision Heritage Softail for $8k.
Shops refuse to work on an old bike? Its a 2003 bike and simple to work on.. i dont knw what garage you take your bike too but they must be fqn idiots
You sound like an i diot yourself
Love seeing the older bikes. Nice this 600rr. Look after it-bullet proof. 👍🏼
The CBR 600 has always been a fav of mine , great vid. Keen to see some more second hand bike reviews, keep em coming....
Thanks, will do!
Nice to see this 600 get some air time! just spent a few weeks in June refurbishing my old CBR400RR and it's now awesome, first big bike I had after passing my test in 1994 and it's now even better than I remember, I swear it steers by telepathy, MOT due on Friday wish me luck.
Good luck!
I agree - that CBR, and others like it, spanked my Ducati at too many track sessions to remember! Quickness, grippy tires and great brakes can add up to quick lap times that were hard to beat back in the day, and proabably today as well! So many times I got passed down the inside going into turn one...by one of these great Japanese middle weight sportbikes!
I've ridden a few bikes in my time (both types snigger snigger) and there's a lot to be said for a two-wheeled 'cheap as chips' bikes. Another cheap as chips machine is the old Kawasaki ZX-9R.
Yes I’d like a go on one of those - there’s lots to be said for mounting old bikes (fnaar fnaar)….
Hi Andy really enjoyed the first bargain bike review, it may sound strange but you can probably get more pleasure buying a bike from this era, firstly riding it of course, but also restoring it to it's former glory. So double pleasure. Look forward to see what else you choose to review, thank you.
Totally agree
So true. I just spent the whole of June refurbishing my old CBR400RR from the 90's and got a lot of pleasure from doing that, just waiting for an MOT this Friday and then I can get to grips with new tyres and brakes etc. I reckon it will ride even better than it did when I stopped riding it 20 years ago because of the advancement in tyre technology. Of course I will have to wait until Friday to learn more!!
@@davidbarton7463 Fingers crossed for Friday, hope you have many pleasurable day's riding your bike...
@@stephenpotts8170 Thank you so much, I hope so too, only stopped riding it cos I wanted to live long enough to see the kids grow up and now one of them has his own bike.
@@davidbarton7463 Yes I did the same, mind you I'm 66 and have been back riding since I was 45, since retiring I ride and tour, just happy to take it nice and steady these days...
I have a 2005 CBR600RR, purchased in 2016 for £3.5k. Not lost a penny on it. Ultra reliable. It's got the USD forks and in the black with silver wing piant scheme.
I love the bike and will never sell it. Honda build quality is exceptional. I had a GSXR750 2006 before and sold it in 2014. Lovely bike but build quality is not a patch on Honda.
Suspension setup is key on this bike. Mine came setup for track and would buckaroo me on Derbyshire country roads. Softened it all off and it's a lovely ride.
Try a VFR 4 750 or 800 Honda compared to in-line four, it’s a totally different animal Big Time. I’ve got my ST1300. Same lineage as Pan, but VFR 4 750 or 800 Honda is in a whole other realm compared to CB’s. and I’ve had two CB 750’s.
I have ridden a vfr800 - may have to revisit
@@TheMissendenFlyer Most definitely revisit. I had 2005 VFR 800 Interceptor but my wife made me get rid of it. Great bike !
Love the concept of the budget bike series of videos.. Especially if you consider how many of us are feeling the ‘pinch’!! Just shows you can have fun without spending a fortune!
For example, I have just as much fun on my 31 year old VFR750 as I do on my other modern bike (2021 speed triple 1200rs)! Actually, I’m some cases the older bikes are more alive… Keep up the brilliant work! It’s also great to see you ride the same roads I do on your test route (I’m in Aylesbury) 🤓
Nice one!
I only discovered one of your videos and subscribed recently, but I never actually visited your channel until about half an hour ago. Truly Awesome!!!
Initially, I bookmarked you under my 'Motorbikes' favourites, and thought nothing of it. But you fly planes too!!!
As someone interested in helicopters, with the occasional side view on planes, I wish I'd found you earlier, but anyhow -
Thanks for the wealth of content you've provided, I've loved all your bike videos so far and shall, no doubt, enjoy ploughing through it all. Excellent job! I wish you all the best.
Thank you for coming along for the ride!
Lovely sound track from the little CBR Andy.
Another good review of what is arguably a fantastic road/track bike, Andy. Back when Honda and the other three Japanese manufacturers had a wide choice of bikes in their line-ups as opposed to the sea of adv bikes and cruisers now.
Sorry, but not too sure about this example, though. I'm sure it's great to ride and will be brilliant on track but this one's too far gone down the road with tasteless after market tat, imo. There are far nicer examples out there. (Sorry, SBC). The most original, stock specimens are always going to be the most appealing, surely?
I have a mint, completely stock 954 Fireblade and the interest it generates at is astonishing for a 20 year old bike.
Looking forward to your next overview.
That bring backs memories, I should of kept the 2002 F2i for track days . Mad top power ,
I had a 2001 CBR600F a few years ago. It was absolutely spotless despite chalking up 60K miles. The build quality of Honda of this age is excellent. And for an IL4 middleweight with about 100BHP it was quick when wound up! I think I paid less than £2K for it. Utter bargain. The RR riding position was/is a bit too extreme for me. Great review!
Thanks!
Loved this video Andy. My first bike was and still is my 600rr!
What a great bike!! Good review too. I really enjoy these extra old bike reviews.
Glad you like them!
I own a 2007 cbr600rr wouldn't sell it for the world. Picked mine up in 2020 for £3250 with 19,000mls, which I thought a bargain. Love it to bits. very flickable and easy to ride. Trying to keep mine as stock as possible. Spent about a grand on it to make it great again. Mine needs to get to 9000prm before it takes off. Agree with your comments about how simple the bike is, and I like that about this bike. I have used it on track and I agree it is more than capable and was amazed just how it handled. Great vid..
Great to see you doing reviews like this. Will certainly appeal to the masses of die-hard bikers on limited budgets. This particular review brought back happy memories of its bigger brother, my much-lamented RR4 Fireblade back in 2008. Thanks again. Safe riding and continued best wishes to you and the family.
Thank you
Haha finally! I have a 2007 CBR600RR as my first bike and I've absolutely loved it!
Great to hear!
@@TheMissendenFlyer Need a naked now 😁
All my bikes have been second hand; around 6-8 years old. Always bought them from a dealer and never had any serious problems with them.
Brought back good memories of my 600 Bandit. Although unlike this CBR600RR it was naked, the 4 cyl 600 engine was just great to scream around on. I actually preferred it to the 1200 Bandit I had later. So totally agree the smaller bikes are more fun. Great review!
Thanks for watching once again! Much appreciated!
I used to dispatch ride in London on the first iteration of this bike in the late 1980s before it became an RR 😂 I can't think of a bike I've owned that has been more fun.
I have an 05 cbr 600f4i which is the compromise between a cb and rr. Best bike I have ever owned, 110hp motor but still upright seating and comfortable for commuting. A comfortable version of the RR. Love these 14k redline, 4 cylinder bikes
Thanks for sharing
I guess if someone has a 4 cylinder Hayabusa, they don't need much winding up to be scary !
but yes, 600 4s as compared to twins , I totally agree !
Ryan F9 put out a video in the last week that explains why the mid size fours fell foul of emissions rules. It boils down to the need for high rpm to produce real power. When it gets up and goes the combustion temperature goes so high that it ignites the nitrogen in the air charge, thereby producing high levels of nitrogen dioxide. A slower revving engine, often the same size v-twin, produces less NO2 so is easier to bring into line with advancing emissions regs.
Clever fella is our Ryan!
The girlfriend just picked up the '04 Cbr600rr for mainly track duty and it's absolutely fantastic
I love hearing the four cylinders wind out. It’s such a beautiful sound. Had a Yamaha FZ6 years ago and I wish I could take it out right now. I’m old enough to Really appreciate it. Why do we sell our motorcycles? Sold it for $4500 bucks with 1200 miles on it. Somebody go back in time and smack me. Thanks Andy for a walk down memory lane.
My pleasure!
Another in a very long list of superb reviews! Thanks!
Glad you like them!
I own a 600 four and, although I'm a massive fan of twins, my 600 is a keeper. It will tour, its comfortable (yam xj6 2011) it carries 2 and luggage no problem, its fast and fun on normal roads, its smooth and although I'm not in love with it, I can't think of a better £3k bike that would do all it does...
Tdm 900
Would really be interested in the ZX400R, Initially i didn't think the UK was getting the ZX from what i Read somewhere but would be Great if we did. I Would never Buy a Parallel Twin Ever after my Experience with the MT07 Tracer, (Sold), Got my Gixer 6 and a CBR250R, that'll do me. As mentioned, Late 90's onwards were Great for Bikes that Put a Grin on your Face, Nowadays, Some New Bikes have Lost their Personality.
Thanks for posting. Good luck with this new series.
Thank you too!
Hi Andy great video as always , you can't beat an inline 4 for the buzz they give, my old 95 blade still does it for me? ATB Wayne........
Great to hear from you again Wayne!
Stock exhaust on my 600F made very nice noises. Good times. It's great when the front goes light like that.
Yes good fun….
Great vlog mate Picked the 600 up on day release 23/03/03 number plate CX03 RCV best bike I owned took it assen 2005 from north wales then Barcelona Moro gp 2006 used it for work daily should never have sold it ,currently have a Cbr650r love that as well
I felt sorry for the gearbox....a bit of rev matching please!
Looks a cleanish bike but needs a few £100 spending to get rid of the tat and return it to stock.
Cheers Alistair 👍
Cheers!
Mr Missenden Flyer, it would seem you have willed it into existence with this review as Honda is releasing a new CBR600RR 😄, Can't wait to get your thoughts when it comes out 😊
Hehe - yes looking forward to having a go on the new one!
Thanks Mr. Flyer. That was a blast, literally from the past lol. How I remember these and (similar) screaming past me as I rode to and from work on my GPZ500S. Seems like an absolute bargain and on video looks super condition too. I really enjoy these outings on the older bikes please keep it up. Ride safe and always with a smile. :>)
Glad you enjoyed it!
I have a 1981 Honda CB 650 Custom lovely bike it's in great nick not built for speed as when u reach 50 miles an hour the engine is at a fairly high rev could do with a 5th.gear it is nice for touring handle bars are a good design u sit up straight in the saddle..
I bought my 8500 mile K6GSXR 1000 for £5000 beyond fast enough for me,, and got a 15000 miles SV1000s for £2000 ,, older bikes make sense,,, and you won't be dropping money 🤑🤑 great video thanks 🙏 From northern Ireland ☘️😲☘️😲😲☘️ and do most of the work on them 😊
I had an 09 special edition. Amazing bike. So quick and great handling. Comfy and stable. Sold it as it just didn’t make sense under 80mph and found myself just going too fast! Wish I’d kept it!
Thanks for sharing!
@@TheMissendenFlyer love your work btw. Keep it up!
Lovely noise from the after market pipe and appears to usefully block the number plate light 😉
In 2020 (yes just as covid hit), I bought a 2004 CBR600F4i, really just because I had always fancied a CBR600. Even that, not being quite as prone as the RR, was uncomfortable for me, but it was fun, especially over 5500rpm. Sold it after a while as my arthritic joints couldn’t cope, but I was pleased I had tried one. There are rumours, that Honda and Kawasaki might be bringing out 400cc inline fours. Ok, so a 400 doesn’t sound like fun, but I had a Honda CB400 SuperFour in the late 90’s/2000’s, and through the twisties, it could certainly hold it’s own. Silky smooth, with a gorgeous sound track when revved hard (especially with an aftermarket end can), up to the 13k red line………ooooo 😊Let’s hope the rumours are true. 😉 I look forward to seeing what other bikes you come up with in this series, especially with new bike prices sky rocketing.
What a thing of beauty...built when Honda made it onto everyone's wishlist. That looked liked the kind of fun I remember from my youth...
My ultimate bike as a youngster dreaming of Direct Access while pootling around on an RS50 😂
Still a beautiful machine!
For ten years, before Honda pulled the plug, I used to organise an annual trackday with Ron Haslam’s Race school. There was a choice of Blades or 600RRs. Of the two I much preferred the RR as I’m only 65 kg in normal clothing and found the Blade that much more difficult to muscle around. On the Blade you could do the whole of Donington international circuit in 2nd which made it less enjoyable. So RR all the way. 👍
I like seeing these older sport bike reviews because it’s getting harder to find any of these bikes in good original condition.
Oh the good old days ,600cc sports bikes were great in the day . And still would be if produced ! Your right in regards to the comfort but you did get used to it .
I remember getting a courtesy 600rr when honda serviced by vfr800 20 odd years ago - found it very uncomfortable (not surprising) and an absolute head case up high in the rev range.
Good idea for videos the 2007 -2008 wer the best of those
Agree
Hi TMF you should try the TL1000R.
I’ll add it to the list!
In 2008 I owned one of these (2003 model year). Hated every minute of it, spent every ride trying not to die (more about my lack of experience back then than the bike I guess). The same year I rode one at the Ron Haslam race school, loved it. Definitely better suited to the track IMO.
Agreed!
Nice to see a good review on a mid 00s bike, looking forward to more. Microphone picks up the sound really well
Thanks!
Bought one early this year as a track bike I could Mot - paid 2k, previous owner had crashed it into something muddy 🤣. Spent around 900 on rubber, plugs, fluids and other bits. Absolutely great bike for thrashing around a track without too much fear of laying her down. Plenty of power and pretty damm smooth compared to my 899. Always loved the look since Rossis Rcv212, don't think it's aged at all and will probably buy another in better nick if I get the chance! Great review!
Nice one!
I love 90s & 00s sporty bikes - they look, sound and go great. I know you've had a go on Richy Vida's VFR800, but you really ought to get hold of a Gen 5 and let us know what you think. In my opinion, the best £1500 you can spend on a bike.
Will see what I can do - what year is a “gen 5”?
@@TheMissendenFlyer 1998 to 2001 - Gear driven cam version, just before the V-tec Gen 6
Got it - I'll add it to the list....thanks for that
05zx636 right here. Love it
Perfect new series! Well done just what I was looking for cheers
Love a used bargain buy so welcome this type of video. I'm considering getting an old Suzuki Gsxr 750 as want a 4 cylinder sports bike. Cheers Andy
Hi Andy rode one of these bikes great machine agree with you with the weight on the wrists but overall good machine looks like you had fun great review aswell😊
Thanks very much - and I did!
Great Idea TMF! Reminds me that you made that classic VTR1000 video a wee while back! Will go back and re-watch that. Thanks for the vid(s)
Glad you enjoyed it!
I had a CBR 600 fx same sort of BHP they had a better riding position best of both worlds a cracking ride 👌🏻
This was my first big bike, really liked it. Didnt enjoy changing down twice to overtake though
I own a 04 cbr600rr. its my dedicated track weapon. Brilliant piece of kit and still very very capable.
Great new segment. Thus suits those of us who don't quite have the budget of a person with several bikes in their garage. Brilliant first bike to start it off especially for someone who grew up watching road racing will be very familiar with these class of bikes. Brilliant.
So glad you enjoyed it!
@@TheMissendenFlyer yes keep this one going if you can.
I cetainly intend too - any requests?
@@TheMissendenFlyer at thus stage in my life its like a large sweet shop. I can't decide. I love so many different bikes now. When I was young it was sports. My body has reprogrammed my brain to accept a more age friendly approach. Also could you maybe add to the segment cost of upkeep. I know Italian steeds can have expensive services.
I love the category and this review was fun. Hope to see more like this.
Thank you! Will do!
Did I detect a partial wheelie Andy? Was waiting for the Richy Vida slo mo! Great video, love these superbike factory vids.
Hehe - I missed a trick there!!
Great to see someone really enjoying the bike Flyer 👍 and enjoying life
Thank you
Beauiful bike. One thing I noticed was how bad the road surfaces are, in such a state of disrepair.
Tell me about it!
Thanks Andy great idea reviewing and riding older machines! :) I have had many bikes since i was about 16 (I'm in my mid 60's) but I did own a 1998 Suzuki GSX600R (Ram Air) until 2004 and loved it, it's a bit more powerful than the Honda you tested and a bit more of a scalpel (not as forgiving as the CBR). I then went to a new 2004 Triumph Sprint ST 955i and also a 2004 Triumph Daytona 955i. The big Daytona is the oldest one of three Triumphs I own now, I may never part with it. Maybe you could test one one day. :)
I’ll keep a look out for one!
Got a 929 fireblade and it's everything i need road and track