Upgraded from the 600RR to the 06 1000RR. In many ways the 1000 is a better road bike, despite the superbike performance!
It has much of the low down torque of a big twin with the screaming top end! This can make for more relaxed riding if you so wish.
Of course if you wind the throttle open there is a significant difference over the 600RR and it is quite addictive!
However, the 1000RR is not a better bike in every way.
The 600 IS more flickable and this IS noticeable on the road (Steering damper on the blade?), the 600 is smoother (fewer annoying vibrations) and the 600 lets you thrash it / get the rev counter dancing around the red line. Do this on the blade and you are likely to be on one wheel / in trouble with the law!
It is a shame about the vibrations because the 1000RR is a better fit than the 600, it is physically a bit bigger and this is generally a good thing on the road. The vibs don’t shake the mirrors like a twin but can make your hands numb after prolonged 70MPH stints in 6th, something the 600 does not do.
Although I mention the 600 is more flickable, on sweeping corners the blade’s package is just SO complete. The pro link rear, stable front end and linear power makes it very confidence inspiring and very fast, especially as there is loads of linear drive from low revs allowing one gear to drive you in, through and out. In slower corners the 1000 takes just a bit more effort than the 600, but not much. In many ways it is more fun! On the track with a good rider on board I am guessing that the standard damper would be a bit of a hindrance. On the road I think it does help. Glad I upgraded.. yes definitely. Smoothness of a 600 next time though please Honda, it is the only reason I marked the engine down one.
Personally I prefer the silver engine / swing arm but the black looks cool too!
