This very un-Honda design flaw makes checking your CBR600RR oil level a two-person job

When you think of Honda, chances are you think of well-considered design traits that cater for both form and function. It’s part of the reason why thousands of us buy them in the UK every year.

Much of the latest CBR600RR fits this mould perfectly, but there’s one tiny aspect that’s become something of an irritation, and that’s the oil inspection window. 

Read more

• Update one: First impressions and a trip to the TT
• Update two: The hits and misses of the Honda CBR600RR after 1675 miles
• Update three: Hitting a Cadwell Park trackday on the CBR
• Update four: Pros and cons of the CBR
• Update five: Taking my mum for a supersport pillion ride
• Update six: Riding a supersport through winter

Having experienced the headaches of a bike detonating itself through oil starvation (not mine, I should add), I am something of an obsessive when it comes to checking the level. 

I see that as no bad thing, and have a look whenever I give the bike a good wash (which is quite a lot of the time at the moment), or when I’m performing basic maintenance such as chain adjustment (something I’ve only had to do twice across my stewardship).

• Related: How to do a basic oil and filter change on your motorbike

Trouble is, according to the manual, oil checks need to be done with the bike on the ground once warmed through for three to five minutes, via a small circular window on the right-hand side. 

This wouldn’t be an issue normally, however the sleek fairing design of the CBR covers the base of this engine case housing the window – meaning the oil level is only visible through a tiny gap at ground level. This makes it almost impossible to look at when you’re on your own. 

Rather than risk crouching down and pulling the bike over on myself I’ve now begun calling upon the help of unsuspecting friends and relatives to hold the bike up, whenever they pop round for a cup of tea. If I’m really stuck, I’ve also been known to sit on the bike off the stand and attempt to take a picture with my phone. I’m sure this isn’t the method Honda would recommend, but needs must.

It would seem my oil-based obsession has been worthwhile though, as the bike has required a top up of around 700ml across our time together, following the first service at 600 miles. The next major service comes at 8000 miles.

Getting down to ground level has also led me to notice a few fasteners furring up now that the winter grit is starting to nibble away – something I’m gutted about, because I love the bones of this thing and want it to look pristine. 

• Related: Best rust prevention products for your motorbike

If you plan to be riding yours all year round, you need to be very hot on your cleaning regime. A good dose of corrosion protection wouldn’t go amiss either.