I owned an F3 for a little while because my dad owns a 1991 F2 that he promised my mom would be the last bike he ever needed to buy. He still rides it, albeit only a couple times a year now. The F3 was brilliant, but due to my large tall frame I eventually sold it and bought a Street Triple for the ergonomics. At no point did I ever think the F3 wasn't enough, and I still keep in touch with the guy who bought it from me.
Still got mine had it for 19 years in that time done 49000 miles 20 plus track days had to replace regulator & fuel pump & exhaust down pipes to stainless steel, engine buillit proof.
Sweet review. One pedantic detail - the next iteration was the FX (or F4 in the States) Ultima Light. It was fuelled by carburettors, and was replaced by the FXi, the first of the fuel injected models. In other words, the bike you're riding here is not actually the last of the carburettor bikes. Also, the FX and the FXi were the first of the CBR600f models to have aluminium frames. Iirc the bike you're reviewing here has a steel frame. Cheers.
Had a '95 f3 for about a year until i upgraded to my FZ1n a few months ago. If i had the space, i would've kept the cbr as second bike. The thing really was bulletproof
You can't tell how bullet proof a bike is by owning for a year sorry... I've had my 96 for 7 years, and have put over 120,000kms on it, all servicing myself, including new timing chain, head bearings blah blah, and balanced carbs. Bike is bulletproof
Well done Mark. 90's bikes were a vast improvement over the 80's bikes. The sweetest real world rides. Big bikes, big seats, decent dials not LCD panels. No cats, no sensors, all cables no fly by wire. Lovely.
Hi Mark, Just recently bought one.. Same as you, saw an add online, went out for a test run and BAM! Sold..! What a great bike to ride! Honda absolutely nailed it with this bike! You can cruise in low rpm, or turn the throttle open and let your knees hit the tarmack! I absolutely LOVE it! Also people still turn their heads when I pass them, even today the bike still looks great! :-D
Really good review Mark. My first big bike I had once I past my test was the CBR 600f f4i 2003, it was a great bike to learn on, it held my hand and kept me safe learning all about riding a sportsbike all year round in the uk. It was really comfortable with that nice big comfy seat that could carry a pillion with ease and so practical with the centre stand for cleaning your chain, but for all that sensible stuff a small twist of your right wrist turned it into an absolute beast of a machine. I kept mine for 2 years without having any issues or points on my license before I moved on to my current bike a Triumph speed triple 1050.
F4i is one of the best bikes ever made in my opinion. I’ve owned. 2003 F4i for 17 years and it’s always been great. I have it stunted out now and it’s a tank. Motor has ran great I have 82k miles on it done regular maintenance and awesome
My dad had one of these and was my first bike I’d ever been on as pillion (9 years old) I’m 26 and owned many bikes since, hopefully getting one of these shortly, it’s the bike that made me fall in love with bikes and Iv always had a soft spot for this bike because of it, watching this vid has confirmed my decision in getting one for myself. Thanks for the great vid! 👍
My first bike was a '96 CBR600. The fairings were scratched and beat up but the drivetrain was perfect. Loved that bike and never gave me a single issue. I regret selling it and will probably pick another one up to add to the garage. New bikes are faster and better but I love how simple and reliable these are.
I have 2 of these bikes. 1996 ft. That’s my track bike. Big spec. Tuned engine. Olins & Maxton etc etc. And a 1997 fv. Standard apart from exhaust and brake lines. I’ve ridden and owned plenty of bikes. These are by far my fav. Seeing as I’ve owned them. For over 11 yrs now 😎
I brought 98 CBR 600 last week , orange gray black. 38.000 miles 12months m.o.t. little service history I rode from Brighton bk to Essex love every minute of it. My face was still saw today with all the smiles I had under my helmet 😁👍👍 ride within your own limits people. Safe
Today's younger buyer's do not understand that the difference between an F2 and F3 say vs a CBR650F or CBR600rr - especially on the street - is completely negligible when you look at the overall characteristics and the longevity of either. I've owned 3 CBRF2's, 2 F3's, 1 F4i, and a rendition going forward of the CBR600/650r/rr/f and I KEEP going back to the F series of the 90's. Not only do they look sexier, they are far more comfortable, FAR FAR more capable overall, and FAR FAR FAR more exciting to ride that anything Honda has built post - say 2003. This includes the 900/929/954/1000rr series, where the 929 hit the pinnacle of excitement - away from the dangerous aspects of the 900 - into a bland and boring "eh" bike. If I could open a manufacturing company and have licensed builds of all the best bikes Honda ever made pre new millennium (ok and slightly post), Honda would need to buy it back immediately because if would be stealing ALL their sales away. Dreams are made of this.
Excellent review Mark. Everything you said is true. I bought the exact same model on 1st April 1997 & still have 52,300 miles later. Just had a new exhaust pipe delivered today as headers starting to leak. Muffler still as good as new. Only thing with mine is a slight vibration between 4,500 rpm & 5,000 rpm. Excellent all rounder.
I’ve just bought a CBR600 F on an S plate. Burt Orange colour, 14000 miles on the clock, in absolute mint condition with history. Haven’t been on a bike for few years so I was slightly cautious for the first 1/2 mile! Absolutely stunning bike to ride, love it.
Gorgeous looking bike! When I was riding around on my 250 in the early eighties I saw these as some unobtainable dream. Perhaps I should think about re-visiting the possibility.
I'd strongly suggest getting one. I bought one last week for £1600, an f3 in outstanding condition. What a machine, I'm used to 1ltr bikes and when you wind this up it's like a missile. Love it.
@@morsteadriders4221 I bought a 2000 cbr 600 f this weekend and absolutely love it. Im flying about like a young lad at the age of 50 with my cbr leathers and lid lol. Wish id bought a cbr years ago as i prefer this bike over my Tlr 1000r and gsxr i had years ago. I also paid £1600 for mine and worth every penny
I'm 19 and barely bought a 93' CBR600 F2, and it's a pretty sick bike for a first bike. It has a Two Brothers exhaust and that bike is fairly loud, I'm sure the neighbors hate me lol
I bought a new one back in 1992. Red, white and blue; with red wheels. When I bought it, there was a waiting list for them. An absolute steal for £1,400. Keep the Honda and purchase a second bike. Thanks for uploading Mark; great to see a review on one of my old bikes.
Just bought my first bike. CBR600 F3 from 96... cant wait to start it up and take it for a ride... I have heard so much nice things about this bike and even before I bought it I was in love with it... Just have to get one.. Good review about the bike.. makes me not to regret my purchase :D
I own the exact same bike. One of the best all rounders out there for the money. They were the best selling bike in the UK in their day and I can now see why some 25 years later
I had an F3 in the Grey/Orange trim. It was perfect because there was a slight vibration in the throttle hand at 103~104 km/h. It forced me to stick to 100 and I kept my license during my youth. I’d ridden a bunch of dual sport/trailies before it and one day after work I decided to launch it in front of my mates. My first first uncontrolled power wheelie was totally frightening and I learned to respect that grunt very quickly. More than other bike that I have owned, this is the one where I would get up Saturday morning... and get home Sunday evening.
I loved my F3! Also a '97. Had a Yosh can. New blue/yellow/black bodywork. It was gorgeous! Paid $2,500 with 24,XXX(?) miles. Had to go thru carbs. And WOW! What beast. Wish I had her back!
I don't even ride and can still appreciate that machine. At one point some friends and I considered going all in on sports bikes and probably good that we didn't at that young age - those things can be widowmakers ! Respect to those who can handle the power responsibly.
i got the same model a year ago. 70 000 miles everything is perfect....amazingly. £1100 . probably the best all round bike ive ever had. plus i just got a mint f2 with 4300 miles on it. lovely bikes.
I own a CBR600F4 my first proper sports bike, I love it, looks awesome super fast sounds mean as when you rev it! And super smooth and reliable. The whole package everything you could want in a sports bike!!
I had one of these in black/silver an FV but it was registered in ‘99 on a T plate. Had it for 9 years and did over 25000 miles on it. Just had the rectifier problem and had to fit a new one. Also replaced the big black silencer when that rotted through for a Scorpion. As a first proper big bike (after a Kwak GPZ500S) it was a great all rounder and certainly fast enough as Performance Bikes tested top speed for this model in a 97 mag was 157mph and standing quarter in low 11s. Easily kept up with a E46 M3 when was floored at 40 to 120 in a few seconds when they backed off without taking it to 13500 red line. Not bad on gas as well (50+ mpg) if taking it steady. Honda build was good with not much corrosion despite being used all year round as a commuter. The 160 rear tyre is narrow by today’s standards and changed the Michelin Macadams to Bridgestone as they were definitely not scratching tyres. I traded it in for a low mileage 02 F4i which was a newer version and completely different bike and I am now on my third 600F a 2011 ABS with Scorpion Red Power, K&N filter along with R&G protectors, Double bubble screen, hugger, heated grips and Scott Oiler. They are great all round bikes if you use them all year as I do.
I've owned a 98 F3 for a couple of weeks. Always looked at these but preferred Kawasaki's in the past. Gotta admit I love it. It inspires confidence, happy to chug along at 3k rpm but pulls in the upper rev range and tips into corners very nicely.
I bought this weekend a 2000 Cbr 600 yf and wow i absolutely love it on the first ride out. I had Tlr 1000r and gsxr bikes and i much prefer these cbr bikes. Im 50 years old and find it a very comfortable bike to ride and handle. Great tork and a solid built bike. These bikes go forever if looked after. They look so modern and like a new style bike still. Beautiful sports bikes. That 1997 cbr is beautiful to m8 hold on to it.
@@markpulling12 Get it over to northern Ireland next year for our road racing events all over the island. North west 200, Ulster grand prix and our national road racing events. I live on the old Temple 100 road race course. Look it up on RUclips. Stay safe and enjoy
Nice video Mark. I bought one this week -1995 - red, white and blue colours - with 62k on the clock. I got a bargain too! It looks and feels amazing for a 23yr old bike. I'm a very happy man! Very different from my last bike, that I had for 10 years (2002 Honda Transalp) so I'm slowly feeling my way with this one, taking it easy until i get to know her. I'm gonna use it for a 20mile each way commute - guaranteed to arrive at work with a smile on my face :-)
My brother got one as his beginners Bike (age 28, no restrictions) I was quite a bit surprised, thoght a yam tdm850 or something like that would be the sensible choice for a beginner on a budget. You cant get wrong with an 90s Honda though, so buy it i said. He didnt crash considering it has some grunt. and after riding it several times i know why, it is so controllable, smooth, everything is quite beefy and firm, a real gem. And man oh man does it sound good above 11.000rpm. not a 4cyl guy, but would keep one of these in my Garage. As a gearhead i dig the straightforward fixable mechanics, too. Still looks the part in my eyes. If you consider a reliable, cheap sportstourer - get one of these
I've got a '98 F3, had it for about 4 years, but I've never ridden it! 56k on the clock, black and silver, it just sits at the back of the garage under a cover.
Was my first bike back in 1998, same colours, kept it for 10 years before swapping for a RR4. Absolutely loved it, so easy to ride and great performance with comfort.
I had the 600 f4i great review Engine will go forever long as you change the oil regulator may have to replace the cam chain tensioner one day small job . 👍
Have a 21, 24 and 15 year old bikes, age is not an issue nor milage but how it has been treated and looked after. Italian bikes seem to be a little more in need of tlc but only a little. Had CBR600 f2 model few years back very similar to this, nice bike.
Thanks for the video. After seeing this I purchases the exact same bike, and fully agree with all your comments. So much fun for so low cost. I have ridden it 6000 km this season and loved it!
Nice one, had mine for 24 yrs same colour German grey import. Great bike never needed anything else does it all. Just keep up with the maintenance and all will be good .
Always a pleasure watching your reviews and lovely to see you on an older bike. People must be told that there are some cracking older bikes out there and this is definitely one of them. I myself bought an f3 just days ago and blooming love it, so thanks for the review on this fantastic middle weight. 😊
@@morsteadriders4221 hi George it's just an old GoPro 2 would you believe and a cheap lapel mic from eBay ,I'm currently waiting to get a heliquip mic from the USA,to improve audio at speed but it's taking forever to arrive all the best mark
My first bIke was the CBR250R, went to an F4I for a second. I moved to Colorado, so I sold it to help with moving expenses. Now after three years, finally picking myself up another bike. A 96 F3. I'll never ride anything but Honda. They are immortal.
I have a 95 cbr 600 f3, (square tail light, black tacho model), i’ve had it for 6years, it’s the black with blue grey and flour’ lemon colour scheme.. i’ll probably keep it til I can’t ride it any more.. 90’s honda build quality second to none
You had a Blackbird! Awesome :) just got one my self a few months back. I love my Blackbird to bit - immensely powerful and smooth bike to ride, but feels like an old friend like Hondas tend to. Older CBRs are amazing - 4 cylinder performance when Honda was at the top of its engineering game and not subject to so much emissions restrictions (I understand the modern need for it) Love the CBR600 - I’d own one in a heart beat (probably an FI model)
First time I've watched your videos , very impressed. I've got an old Bandit 600 which I can't make my mind up whether to change or not. But I like the CBR 600F , like you though always a bit sceptical about high mileage bikes , not Honda's though it seems , well I might have a look further now . Yours is a peach!.
Excellent video Mark! Since passing my test in '83 Im onto my 3rd, all Fw models, and ironically, all of the same colour, (purple, red & white) You are very correct, such a great bike, ok, not full on supersports like the gsxr's but, so reliable, comfy, well, pretty much everything you said in the video! I've definitely put a 👍🏻 and a subscribe in!!
My 1995 f3 is my first bike, and wow what a first bike, it has taught me so much. I got it for 980 on ebay 29000 miles mint condition, full years mot and its never failed me. I love these bikes. The only reason others didn't bid is because its got a custom orange paint job, it was a lucky day for me) It scares me at higher speeds i have to say lol she just wants to keep on going
Great review!! I have a 95 F3 in Repsol livery and still get people complimenting it. They sure don’t make em like they used to!! Keep putting those miles on her!!
One of these came up on a fb page for £700 . Gutted i didnt have cash for it ! Ive got 2001 r6 but i had a cbr250rr 1992 model and it was so smooth and amazing sounding with good power that i know even a carb 600 cbr will be brilliant to own aswell
This was my first big bike which I bought brand new in 1998 for $11,000. An absolute gem. Now I have the immediate succesor. You were wrong about the F3 being the last carbeurated model. They brought out the F4 in 2000. Makes 115HP at 14000 RPM. Super bike. I think this is when sports bikes were at their prime.
Thats A very beautiful bike you own . I have the same bike and what a machine. it's my fisrt 600cc. that direct air induction sounds incredible. i had no idea thoses model of hondas made such a beautiful sound. if you've never owned one go out and buy one to experience that direct air indcuction system.
I've bought the cbr600f f4, 99 last of the carb and first of the alloy frame 21000 miles 1300 quid and love it, it flies it's my second bike after owning 2003 600rr and feels just as quick and a lot more comfortable
Nooo! 😲 This is not the last of the CBR600 series of bikes to be carbureted. The CBR600F4, the one that came after this one, is the last of the CBR series of 600s to be carbed. However this is still an awesome motorcycle & a respectable one, for the fact that it is over twenty years old but still pulling strong. I'm a proud owner of the the F4.
I bought one of these in June, passed my bike licence in November.. 70,000 miles on the clock and a still goes like holy stink!! I've done 3000 miles in 2½ months
yours runs a bit smoother than mine. Mine has an upgraded exhaust system and a k&n air filter so i wonder if she is running lean. Still she never disappoints. I think I am gonna experiment with some stage 3 injectors, or maybe just experiment putting the old paper filter back in
Cracking bike and review mate. I had one in the red colour scheme until some little Scrote stole it last July. Will have another probably in similar colours to yours. Subbed. All the best.
I HAVE A 1996 F3 in my garage that needs some TLC, hasn't run for about 15 years but only has 9'127 miles on it, i am presently trying my best to allocate time to put her back on the road.
I just found a 95' CBR600 F3 Black/Purple/Yellow for sale for $1000 CAD which is SUPER cheap. Owner says he's been riding it all summer and for some reason it's now stalling out on him and won't start.....but for $1k....tough choice. I'm looking for my first bike.
I like older bikes........ these F2/F3, the Hawk NT650 (You Brits call 'Bros'), the Superhawk/Firestorm, CB-1. And if I was over in the UK, I would definitely get a CBR400RR, oh YEAH! Kids today ain't know bout them classic bikes, they too busy being Vin Diesel Biker Boyzzzz out there on the streets with their extended chrome swingarms and neon lighting on their ugly Suzuki 'Gixxers'. These kids ain't know! Let's keep it that way though, don't want them to ruin the classic bikes out there. :)
Two reviews within a week of each other. We are spoiled. Good find at a cracking price. Is the engine totally std? It might have been remapped for the aftermarket end can. I've ridden few new demo bikes and on some the brakes have been terrible in fact so bad I thought I wasn't going to stop on one, but you get some good pads in and properly bleed the system and most bikes' brakes will work really well. What doesn't work so well are the dealers. I would be changing all the fluids on it if you haven't already done so. But nice bike. Cosmetically looks like it's been well looked after. You might be onto a winner reviewing retro/second hand bikes as most bike channels only seem to review new bikes which cost £15,000+.
Hi Alex yes engine is totally standard ,the carbs haven't been rejetted for the can but I works lovely ,did all the brake fluid when I changed the hoses ,rides like new well pleased :)
The best CBR600 made. I had the end of line 1998 CBR600FW. (I think yours is the FV. Only detail differences) Mine took me on my first foreign trip. 3000 miles through France and Spain. I kept it for 7 years. Awesome bike. Where have you been for the last year? Did you have any problems with the Multistrada during your ownership? I was waiting for a long term review on that.
Hi sreve thanks for the comments yes I'm loving the cbr,no sorry I don't have the multistrada anymore but what a bike , probably my best ever so versatile,had no problems with it 100% reliable all the best mark
I owned the 2006 Honda CBR600F4i as a first bike. Lovely machine. Now i ride a 1985 Kawasaki GPZ600R with 80 000 km on it. Smooth as silk. But i'm looking for a more modern bike as a every day bike. Riding around every day on a 35 year old machine isn't guaranteed to get you from A to B.
I got the last F3 1999 ive had it 22yrs, only done 9.8k miles would not swap it for anything, its all you will ever need.
I owned an F3 for a little while because my dad owns a 1991 F2 that he promised my mom would be the last bike he ever needed to buy. He still rides it, albeit only a couple times a year now. The F3 was brilliant, but due to my large tall frame I eventually sold it and bought a Street Triple for the ergonomics. At no point did I ever think the F3 wasn't enough, and I still keep in touch with the guy who bought it from me.
@@tyranid05 yeah it was but i could not ride mine anymore, traded it up for a CB1000R
@@aeroflopper lol it was only after I replied I saw your comment was from three years ago
@tyranid05 still here lol.
I've got a 99 F3 I love it
The sound of a f3 is what made me fall in love with bikes! Beautiful example of one sir!
Still got mine had it for 19 years in that time done 49000 miles 20 plus track days had to replace regulator & fuel pump & exhaust down pipes to stainless steel, engine buillit proof.
Sweet review. One pedantic detail - the next iteration was the FX (or F4 in the States) Ultima Light. It was fuelled by carburettors, and was replaced by the FXi, the first of the fuel injected models. In other words, the bike you're riding here is not actually the last of the carburettor bikes. Also, the FX and the FXi were the first of the CBR600f models to have aluminium frames. Iirc the bike you're reviewing here has a steel frame. Cheers.
Had a '95 f3 for about a year until i upgraded to my FZ1n a few months ago. If i had the space, i would've kept the cbr as second bike. The thing really was bulletproof
You can't tell how bullet proof a bike is by owning for a year sorry... I've had my 96 for 7 years, and have put over 120,000kms on it, all servicing myself, including new timing chain, head bearings blah blah, and balanced carbs.
Bike is bulletproof
Well done Mark.
90's bikes were a vast improvement over the 80's bikes. The sweetest real world rides. Big bikes, big seats, decent dials not LCD panels.
No cats, no sensors, all cables no fly by wire. Lovely.
Yes definitely...these cbr600s are great 💯👍
Cheers mark
Hi Mark, Just recently bought one.. Same as you, saw an add online, went out for a test run and BAM! Sold..! What a great bike to ride! Honda absolutely nailed it with this bike! You can cruise in low rpm, or turn the throttle open and let your knees hit the tarmack! I absolutely LOVE it!
Also people still turn their heads when I pass them, even today the bike still looks great! :-D
I have a 94 Cbr600f and I love it, awesome bike for a 19 year old Aussie 😂
I have a 96 awesome bike
Really good review Mark. My first big bike I had once I past my test was the CBR 600f f4i 2003, it was a great bike to learn on, it held my hand and kept me safe learning all about riding a sportsbike all year round in the uk. It was really comfortable with that nice big comfy seat that could carry a pillion with ease and so practical with the centre stand for cleaning your chain, but for all that sensible stuff a small twist of your right wrist turned it into an absolute beast of a machine. I kept mine for 2 years without having any issues or points on my license before I moved on to my current bike a Triumph speed triple 1050.
Thanks Stuart yes I've still got this bike went out for a cracking ride yesterday on it as the weather was so nice all the best mark
F4i is one of the best bikes ever made in my opinion. I’ve owned. 2003 F4i for 17 years and it’s always been great. I have it stunted out now and it’s a tank. Motor has ran great I have 82k miles on it done regular maintenance and awesome
My dad had one of these and was my first bike I’d ever been on as pillion (9 years old) I’m 26 and owned many bikes since, hopefully getting one of these shortly, it’s the bike that made me fall in love with bikes and Iv always had a soft spot for this bike because of it, watching this vid has confirmed my decision in getting one for myself. Thanks for the great vid! 👍
Nice one Steven ,hope you find a nice one :)
My first bike was a '96 CBR600. The fairings were scratched and beat up but the drivetrain was perfect. Loved that bike and never gave me a single issue.
I regret selling it and will probably pick another one up to add to the garage. New bikes are faster and better but I love how simple and reliable these are.
Thanks for the comment.... definitely agree with you about these older bikes
Cheers mark
Got myself a cbr 600f3 after seeing this video, great bike really impressed with her 😎
Nice one ! thanks yes still have mine All the best mark
@@markpulling12 I bought one Mark 3 years ago and it's still doing the business 👍 it's a keeper did you keep yours long
@@nickhill3362 hi nik no only about a year I pxd it for a ninja 636 but yes brilliant bikes the cbr
Cheers mark
Yea these bikes are still great bikes to this day..one of the best bikes ever built
I have 2 of these bikes. 1996 ft. That’s my track bike. Big spec. Tuned engine. Olins & Maxton etc etc. And a 1997 fv. Standard apart from exhaust and brake lines. I’ve ridden and owned plenty of bikes. These are by far my fav. Seeing as I’ve owned them. For over 11 yrs now 😎
I brought 98 CBR 600 last week , orange gray black. 38.000 miles 12months m.o.t. little service history I rode from Brighton bk to Essex love every minute of it. My face was still saw today with all the smiles I had under my helmet 😁👍👍 ride within your own limits people. Safe
If it’s OLD* Honda it will last forever. New ones are trash.
I wouldn't quite say trash man..
Today's younger buyer's do not understand that the difference between an F2 and F3 say vs a CBR650F or CBR600rr - especially on the street - is completely negligible when you look at the overall characteristics and the longevity of either. I've owned 3 CBRF2's, 2 F3's, 1 F4i, and a rendition going forward of the CBR600/650r/rr/f and I KEEP going back to the F series of the 90's. Not only do they look sexier, they are far more comfortable, FAR FAR more capable overall, and FAR FAR FAR more exciting to ride that anything Honda has built post - say 2003. This includes the 900/929/954/1000rr series, where the 929 hit the pinnacle of excitement - away from the dangerous aspects of the 900 - into a bland and boring "eh" bike. If I could open a manufacturing company and have licensed builds of all the best bikes Honda ever made pre new millennium (ok and slightly post), Honda would need to buy it back immediately because if would be stealing ALL their sales away. Dreams are made of this.
Just bought one of these after 23 years away from bikes. '97 model with 30k on it and it's practically mint. I absolutely love it 🙂
Great choice lee ...this one has 60 k on it and still rides like new
Cheers mark
Excellent review Mark.
Everything you said is true. I bought the exact same model on 1st April 1997 & still have 52,300 miles later.
Just had a new exhaust pipe delivered today as headers starting to leak. Muffler still as good as new.
Only thing with mine is a slight vibration between 4,500 rpm & 5,000 rpm.
Excellent all rounder.
I’ve just bought a CBR600 F on an S plate. Burt Orange colour, 14000 miles on the clock, in absolute mint condition with history. Haven’t been on a bike for few years so I was slightly cautious for the first 1/2 mile! Absolutely stunning bike to ride, love it.
Gorgeous looking bike! When I was riding around on my 250 in the early eighties I saw these as some unobtainable dream. Perhaps I should think about re-visiting the possibility.
Thanks samsara !! Hopefully going out on it today !
I'd strongly suggest getting one.
I bought one last week for £1600, an f3 in outstanding condition. What a machine, I'm used to 1ltr bikes and when you wind this up it's like a missile.
Love it.
@@morsteadriders4221 I bought a 2000 cbr 600 f this weekend and absolutely love it. Im flying about like a young lad at the age of 50 with my cbr leathers and lid lol. Wish id bought a cbr years ago as i prefer this bike over my Tlr 1000r and gsxr i had years ago. I also paid £1600 for mine and worth every penny
I'm 19 and barely bought a 93' CBR600 F2, and it's a pretty sick bike for a first bike. It has a Two Brothers exhaust and that bike is fairly loud, I'm sure the neighbors hate me lol
I bought a new one back in 1992. Red, white and blue; with red wheels. When I bought it, there was a waiting list for them.
An absolute steal for £1,400. Keep the Honda and purchase a second bike.
Thanks for uploading Mark; great to see a review on one of my old bikes.
Hi pete thanks ,yes i cant believe how good it still rides after 60k the induction noise is great all the best
mark pulling: If you’re ever in Cheshire, you’re more than welcome to ride my 2001 Honda X11.
@@SBKPete thanks Pete would love to review one of those !!
Just bought my first bike. CBR600 F3 from 96... cant wait to start it up and take it for a ride... I have heard so much nice things about this bike and even before I bought it I was in love with it... Just have to get one.. Good review about the bike.. makes me not to regret my purchase :D
Thanks Michael ....your going to love it cheers mark
@@markpulling12 Most veszek egy 97 es motort,F3,remélem nem csalódok benne.
Cool review ! That's exactly the bike I bought 06/1997, even the same colour ! Having it until today I can confirm your experience !
I own the exact same bike.
One of the best all rounders out there for the money.
They were the best selling bike in the UK in their day and I can now see why some 25 years later
Great review.
I’ve got one almost identical with 29000 miles on the clock. Had it for 19 years
Goes like s**t off a shovel. Love it
I had an F3 in the Grey/Orange trim. It was perfect because there was a slight vibration in the throttle hand at 103~104 km/h. It forced me to stick to 100 and I kept my license during my youth. I’d ridden a bunch of dual sport/trailies before it and one day after work I decided to launch it in front of my mates. My first first uncontrolled power wheelie was totally frightening and I learned to respect that grunt very quickly. More than other bike that I have owned, this is the one where I would get up Saturday morning... and get home Sunday evening.
Nice one roger thanks for the comment 👍
Honda made the CBR600F4 which was also carburetted around 1999-2000 before going FI in mid 2000 with the F4i. I rode both the F4 and F4i.
Which one did you prefer??
I loved my F3! Also a '97. Had a Yosh can. New blue/yellow/black bodywork. It was gorgeous! Paid $2,500 with 24,XXX(?) miles. Had to go thru carbs. And WOW! What beast. Wish I had her back!
I don't even ride and can still appreciate that machine. At one point some friends and I considered going all in on sports bikes and probably good that we didn't at that young age - those things can be widowmakers !
Respect to those who can handle the power responsibly.
i got the same model a year ago. 70 000 miles everything is perfect....amazingly. £1100 . probably the best all round bike ive ever had. plus i just got a mint f2 with 4300 miles on it. lovely bikes.
I’m rebuilding a 1994 f2 right now, i have modern bikes but still love the old f2/f3’s
I own a CBR600F4 my first proper sports bike, I love it, looks awesome super fast sounds mean as when you rev it! And super smooth and reliable. The whole package everything you could want in a sports bike!!
Totally agree ... great choice best mark 😊
I had one of these in black/silver an FV but it was registered in ‘99 on a T plate. Had it for 9 years and did over 25000 miles on it. Just had the rectifier problem and had to fit a new one. Also replaced the big black silencer when that rotted through for a Scorpion. As a first proper big bike (after a Kwak GPZ500S) it was a great all rounder and certainly fast enough as Performance Bikes tested top speed for this model in a 97 mag was 157mph and standing quarter in low 11s. Easily kept up with a E46 M3 when was floored at 40 to 120 in a few seconds when they backed off without taking it to 13500 red line. Not bad on gas as well (50+ mpg) if taking it steady. Honda build was good with not much corrosion despite being used all year round as a commuter. The 160 rear tyre is narrow by today’s standards and changed the Michelin Macadams to Bridgestone as they were definitely not scratching tyres. I traded it in for a low mileage 02 F4i which was a newer version and completely different bike and I am now on my third 600F a 2011 ABS with Scorpion Red Power, K&N filter along with R&G protectors, Double bubble screen, hugger, heated grips and Scott Oiler. They are great all round bikes if you use them all year as I do.
Great write up
Thanks mark ! :)
I've owned a 98 F3 for a couple of weeks. Always looked at these but preferred Kawasaki's in the past. Gotta admit I love it. It inspires confidence, happy to chug along at 3k rpm but pulls in the upper rev range and tips into corners very nicely.
Many thanks Barrie ... great choice
I bought this weekend a 2000 Cbr 600 yf and wow i absolutely love it on the first ride out. I had Tlr 1000r and gsxr bikes and i much prefer these cbr bikes. Im 50 years old and find it a very comfortable bike to ride and handle. Great tork and a solid built bike. These bikes go forever if looked after.
They look so modern and like a new style bike still. Beautiful sports bikes.
That 1997 cbr is beautiful to m8 hold on to it.
Thanks Trevor ... great buy :)
@@markpulling12 Get it over to northern Ireland next year for our road racing events all over the island. North west 200, Ulster grand prix and our national road racing events. I live on the old Temple 100 road race course. Look it up on RUclips.
Stay safe and enjoy
Nice video Mark. I bought one this week -1995 - red, white and blue colours - with 62k on the clock. I got a bargain too! It looks and feels amazing for a 23yr old bike. I'm a very happy man! Very different from my last bike, that I had for 10 years (2002 Honda Transalp) so I'm slowly feeling my way with this one, taking it easy until i get to know her. I'm gonna use it for a 20mile each way commute - guaranteed to arrive at work with a smile on my face :-)
Hi jamie ,thanks for the comment ,yes agreed they ride so well for old bikes ,took mine out for a blast yesterday :) all the best mark
My brother got one as his beginners Bike (age 28, no restrictions) I was quite a bit surprised, thoght a yam tdm850 or something like that would be the sensible choice for a beginner on a budget. You cant get wrong with an 90s Honda though, so buy it i said. He didnt crash considering it has some grunt. and after riding it several times i know why, it is so controllable, smooth, everything is quite beefy and firm, a real gem. And man oh man does it sound good above 11.000rpm. not a 4cyl guy, but would keep one of these in my Garage. As a gearhead i dig the straightforward fixable mechanics, too. Still looks the part in my eyes. If you consider a reliable, cheap sportstourer - get one of these
I've got a '98 F3, had it for about 4 years, but I've never ridden it! 56k on the clock, black and silver, it just sits at the back of the garage under a cover.
Was my first bike back in 1998, same colours, kept it for 10 years before swapping for a RR4. Absolutely loved it, so easy to ride and great performance with comfort.
i got a 1996 cbr, digital gauge cluster, full exhaust. got rid of the fairings and went for a street fighter look. absolutely amazing
Most bike reviewers on youtube don't show overtakes of cars while filming.. I noticed you did. Am subscribed 😁✌
Great thanks for the sub :)
I have a 93 CBR600F and I love it. Best 600 for the money I paid. Great review 👌🏻
Thanks jim ,yes agreed great bike ,mines still going great :)
I had the 600 f4i great review
Engine will go forever long as you change the oil regulator may have to replace the cam chain tensioner one day small job . 👍
I bought very similar f3 to yours as my first bike and absolutely love it. Even colour is the same. Got it for few weeks now.
Just got mine yesterday. Red color scheme with 35k miles for $1000. My first bike ever. Great review
Thanks great choice for your first bike enjoy all the best mark
Great bike & great review. Mine F3 is from 98' and I just love this bike.... It's awesome!
Have a 21, 24 and 15 year old bikes, age is not an issue nor milage but how it has been treated and looked after. Italian bikes seem to be a little more in need of tlc but only a little. Had CBR600 f2 model few years back very similar to this, nice bike.
My first bike was a lightly custom built 97 f3 and it was an absolute treasure. Her name was Sheila.
Best part was, never laid it down!
Thanks for the video. After seeing this I purchases the exact same bike, and fully agree with all your comments. So much fun for so low cost. I have ridden it 6000 km this season and loved it!
Great choice best cbrs ever !
Nice one, had mine for 24 yrs same colour German grey import. Great bike never needed anything else does it all. Just keep up with the maintenance and all will be good .
Always a pleasure watching your reviews and lovely to see you on an older bike. People must be told that there are some cracking older bikes out there and this is definitely one of them.
I myself bought an f3 just days ago and blooming love it, so thanks for the review on this fantastic middle weight.
😊
Great thanks George 👍
@@markpulling12 can I ask Mark what camera and mic set up you have as it's so clear.
Hope this is ok?
Best wishes.
George.
@@morsteadriders4221 hi George it's just an old GoPro 2 would you believe and a cheap lapel mic from eBay ,I'm currently waiting to get a heliquip mic from the USA,to improve audio at speed but it's taking forever to arrive all the best mark
@@markpulling12 your commentary is always so clear. Others should take note, you dont need expensive equipment to do it.
Had1 back in the day my 1st big bike takes me back liked the review cheers
Thanks Dale I'm really enjoying it ,I remember looking at these in the bike shops in 1997 !! All the best mark
Great review pal I've recently bought a honda cbr600f 1999 only 24 thousand miles on it and it's fast and reliable
Thanks for the comment... great bikes these go on forever cheers mark
My first bIke was the CBR250R, went to an F4I for a second. I moved to Colorado, so I sold it to help with moving expenses. Now after three years, finally picking myself up another bike. A 96 F3. I'll never ride anything but Honda. They are immortal.
Great choice James :)
I have a 95 cbr 600 f3, (square tail light, black tacho model), i’ve had it for 6years, it’s the black with blue grey and flour’ lemon colour scheme.. i’ll probably keep it til I can’t ride it any more.. 90’s honda build quality second to none
WillNash looking to pickup a 96 with 10,2xx this week love seeing comments like these 💌
Just bought a cbr600f 1998 48000 on clock runs and looks like a dream, great vid review cheers mate
Thanks Paul great choice
Cheers mark
You had a Blackbird! Awesome :) just got one my self a few months back.
I love my Blackbird to bit - immensely powerful and smooth bike to ride, but feels like an old friend like Hondas tend to.
Older CBRs are amazing - 4 cylinder performance when Honda was at the top of its engineering game and not subject to so much emissions restrictions (I understand the modern need for it)
Love the CBR600 - I’d own one in a heart beat (probably an FI model)
Thanks Dan yes the blackbird was an awesome bike ...would definitely get one again cheers mark
First time I've watched your videos , very impressed. I've got an old Bandit 600 which I can't make my mind up whether to change or not.
But I like the CBR 600F , like you though always a bit sceptical about high mileage bikes , not Honda's though it seems , well I might have a look further now .
Yours is a peach!.
Yes these old cbrs are great Kevin ,go on forever and ride really nicely ,there are still quite a few good ones out there All the best mark
Excellent video Mark!
Since passing my test in '83 Im onto my 3rd, all Fw models, and ironically, all of the same colour, (purple, red & white)
You are very correct, such a great bike, ok, not full on supersports like the gsxr's but, so reliable, comfy, well, pretty much everything you said in the video!
I've definitely put a 👍🏻 and a subscribe in!!
Thanks Steve I appreciate that 😄
This is a real eye opener when going on bike trader I always set a max mileage of 20k.
great review Mark spot on got a 1996 one in white had it a year now 48,000 miles drives great ,brilliant value for money
Hi alastair, yes its great ,I love it ,I plan to keep it for a long time :)
My 1995 f3 is my first bike, and wow what a first bike, it has taught me so much. I got it for 980 on ebay 29000 miles mint condition, full years mot and its never failed me. I love these bikes. The only reason others didn't bid is because its got a custom orange paint job, it was a lucky day for me) It scares me at higher speeds i have to say lol she just wants to keep on going
sounds great dan with that orange paint job :) all the best mark
@@markpulling12 Cheers Mark, stay safe bro
Great review!! I have a 95 F3 in Repsol livery and still get people complimenting it. They sure don’t make em like they used to!! Keep putting those miles on her!!
The F3 was the last non aluminum frame CBR. The F4 of 99-00 had an aluminum frame but still carburetors. The 01 F4i got an injection fuel system.
One of these came up on a fb page for £700 . Gutted i didnt have cash for it ! Ive got 2001 r6 but i had a cbr250rr 1992 model and it was so smooth and amazing sounding with good power that i know even a carb 600 cbr will be brilliant to own aswell
This was my first big bike which I bought brand new in 1998 for $11,000. An absolute gem. Now I have the immediate succesor. You were wrong about the F3 being the last carbeurated model. They brought out the F4 in 2000. Makes 115HP at 14000 RPM. Super bike. I think this is when sports bikes were at their prime.
Thanks Jason ...I thought the f4i was the injection only model they must have done a carb version before they changed to fuel injection
Cheers mark
Oooh yeah! and the F3 and F4 still have a centre stand
Thats A very beautiful bike you own . I have the same bike and what a machine. it's my fisrt 600cc. that direct air induction sounds incredible. i had no idea thoses model of hondas made such a beautiful sound. if you've never owned one go out and buy one to experience that direct air indcuction system.
Me too Gavin normally Honda's are very subdued with noise this sounds like a zx6r
@@markpulling12I think its a very special machine.
I’m eyeing one of these up as a project. Seriously tempted.
I've bought the cbr600f f4, 99 last of the carb and first of the alloy frame 21000 miles 1300 quid and love it, it flies it's my second bike after owning 2003 600rr and feels just as quick and a lot more comfortable
Nice one Paul thanks for the comment
I have a 2 owner 1998 s in black and copper all standard even the exhaust,only 9k miles goes like a bomb and its utterly reliable!
Nooo! 😲 This is not the last of the CBR600 series of bikes to be carbureted. The CBR600F4, the one that came after this one, is the last of the CBR series of 600s to be carbed. However this is still an awesome motorcycle & a respectable one, for the fact that it is over twenty years old but still pulling strong. I'm a proud owner of the the F4.
I bought one of these in June, passed my bike licence in November.. 70,000 miles on the clock and a still goes like holy stink!! I've done 3000 miles in 2½ months
Sounds great Tony 👍
I had one of these , wish I never sold it!
yours runs a bit smoother than mine. Mine has an upgraded exhaust system and a k&n air filter so i wonder if she is running lean. Still she never disappoints. I think I am gonna experiment with some stage 3 injectors, or maybe just experiment putting the old paper filter back in
Ive just bought the 2012 model and its absolutely beautiful! 😍
I'm buying one but the 1994 model. This review was beautifully presented. Thank you. 👍
Thanks Helen .... great choice
Can't go wrong with a Honda CBR
Cheers mark
Best 600 ever made.
Well bought.
Hi thanks ,yes i have to agree its a great bike all the best mark
zardportugal my starter bike and best purchase
Cracking bike and review mate. I had one in the red colour scheme until some little Scrote stole it last July. Will have another probably in similar colours to yours. Subbed. All the best.
Ahh thanks Andy versys 1000 test just uploading all the best mark
Thanks for your review. I am looking at one here in Australia for sale I remember testing one in about 2001 and loved it
I HAVE A 1996 F3 in my garage that needs some TLC, hasn't run for about 15 years but only has 9'127 miles on it, i am presently trying my best to allocate time to put her back on the road.
Had a F2 back in 98, looking to buy another as a future classic, thanks for sharing
No problem .... great bike cheers mark
I just found a 95' CBR600 F3 Black/Purple/Yellow for sale for $1000 CAD which is SUPER cheap. Owner says he's been riding it all summer and for some reason it's now stalling out on him and won't start.....but for $1k....tough choice. I'm looking for my first bike.
Give you a thumbs up 👍 nice to be back on a half decent bike after a break off them for a few months in my case cheers Shane
I like older bikes........ these F2/F3, the Hawk NT650 (You Brits call 'Bros'), the Superhawk/Firestorm, CB-1. And if I was over in the UK, I would definitely get a CBR400RR, oh YEAH! Kids today ain't know bout them classic bikes, they too busy being Vin Diesel Biker Boyzzzz out there on the streets with their extended chrome swingarms and neon lighting on their ugly Suzuki 'Gixxers'. These kids ain't know! Let's keep it that way though, don't want them to ruin the classic bikes out there. :)
i love old bikes and cars
the 1999 f4 was the last of the carburated cbr600 i have one, its also a great bike!
Just bought one, 1 lady owner from new too! Smashing little bikes
I ride on a 85 BMW R65. I am considering one of those now. I love the analog cockpit. Your bike has a lovely color combination.
Thanks for the comment ,just out of curiosity where are you in the world ? Regards mark
@@markpulling12 Belarus))) it's cold already and a long winter is upon us. It's a good time to buy a bike I guess. Prices are a bit down.
@@eusdeenius ok wow Belarus ,yes not too bad here in the UK at the moment ,it's about 10c sunny today , thanks Mark
Nice bike, i just got a 93 f2, with 123000klm on,i have never had a sports bike always had cruisers,but i love these bikes,
Bought a 2002 F4i version....crashed one...still sorting it out....but definitely a keeper....
Mine has around 60,000....just run in in my opinion
Two reviews within a week of each other. We are spoiled. Good find at a cracking price. Is the engine totally std? It might have been remapped for the aftermarket end can. I've ridden few new demo bikes and on some the brakes have been terrible in fact so bad I thought I wasn't going to stop on one, but you get some good pads in and properly bleed the system and most bikes' brakes will work really well. What doesn't work so well are the dealers. I would be changing all the fluids on it if you haven't already done so. But nice bike. Cosmetically looks like it's been well looked after.
You might be onto a winner reviewing retro/second hand bikes as most bike channels only seem to review new bikes which cost £15,000+.
Hi Alex yes engine is totally standard ,the carbs haven't been rejetted for the can but I works lovely ,did all the brake fluid when I changed the hoses ,rides like new well pleased :)
There was a carbureted F4 in 1999-2000. Then came the fuel injected F4i in 2001-2006. That’s what the “i” stands for.
Am I correct in saying the 1999 f4 had a aluminum frame ?
Roosky I’d say you are correct.
The best CBR600 made. I had the end of line 1998 CBR600FW. (I think yours is the FV. Only detail differences) Mine took me on my first foreign trip. 3000 miles through France and Spain. I kept it for 7 years. Awesome bike. Where have you been for the last year? Did you have any problems with the Multistrada during your ownership? I was waiting for a long term review on that.
Hi sreve thanks for the comments yes I'm loving the cbr,no sorry I don't have the multistrada anymore but what a bike , probably my best ever so versatile,had no problems with it 100% reliable all the best mark
Hi
So is this bike not a back braker for touring etc? I wouldn't get off the bike a cripple if I did a few hours in the saddle? 😆
Nice couple of videos, bike looks cracking , well done
Keep the videos coming .
Nice one mate, that model was my first bike, loved it, I’d have another easy
Yes you kind of forget that bikes from the 90s were still very good
i know the vid is 5 years old, but the f4 was 99-00 carbed and firstly in 2001 when they launched the f4i
just bought 2nd f3, love em 😍
I have a 98 same bike in red and black.. I love it... Great review...!!!
I owned the 2006 Honda CBR600F4i as a first bike. Lovely machine. Now i ride a 1985 Kawasaki GPZ600R with 80 000 km on it. Smooth as silk. But i'm looking for a more modern bike as a every day bike. Riding around every day on a 35 year old machine isn't guaranteed to get you from A to B.
Gpz600 was my dream bike,I was 15 in 1985 !! Lots of nice modern Kawasakis now Roy have a look at the z650/900 / rs all the best mark