More 2010 Honda motorcycle models announced

Honda is pleased to release details of the second in a series of model announcements for its 2010 motorcycle line-up, with a range of technical and colour updates to popular existing models as well as new additions to Honda’s re-launched cruiser family.

In the Supersports category, styling and performance improvements have been made to the flagship model – the CBR1000RR Fireblade – which also sports some vibrant new colours and graphics. The ‘Blade now comes with sharper rear styling, thanks to an updated tail unit shape, which houses a new tail-light with a clear lens. Also updated is the exhaust muffler, which now comes with an aluminium cover. Internally, an improvement to the inertia mass of the crankshaft will further aid throttle control. This change was made without any overall increase in weight, thanks to the use of lightweight components elsewhere in the 999cc machine. For 2010 the Fireblade will still come with an optional Combined ABS version, which includes Honda’s revolutionary anti-lock braking system and adds peace of mind and safety to this cutting-edge performer. Colours now include Digital Silver Metallic with Orange, Graphite Black with white/black striping, HRC Tricolour, and a special all Graphite Black model.

The Fireblade’s smaller sibling – the CBR600RR – is also updated with a range of stunning new colours. The bike – which took the top three positions in the World Supersport championship last season and has seven consecutive WSS titles to its name – now comes in a sporty Tricolour scheme, which celebrates the CBR’s championship-winning heritage and two Graphite Black schemes – Graphite Black/mono-black and Graphite Black/Victory Red – with the non C-ABS version available in a Special Edition colour scheme with bold graphics incorporating a female face in high contrast pattern. The CBR600RR is also available with C-ABS, and now an alternative ECU for this version which is suitable for circuit use is available as an optional accessory.

2010 is an exciting year for Honda’s cruiser range, with the introduction of the new Shadow VT750 Black Spirit. The Black Spirit is a variation on the Shadow Spirit, but harks back to the original custom cruiser machine – the bobber. These machines, with removed front fenders and cropped or ‘bobbed’ rear fenders were massively popular in the 1950s and helped start the custom bike craze.

Honda’s new Black Spirit takes that ethos and adds a gutsy 52-degree, fuel-injected V-twin engine and maintenance-free shaft-drive. What impresses further is the minimalist styling, which echoes the original custom motorcycles of the 1950s. The Shadow 750 Black Spirit comes in just one colour: a striking Graphite Black, for that stylish, stripped-down look.

Its sibling, the VT750CS Shadow, now comes with the option of Honda’s Combined ABS system for 2010. The Shadow itself oozes the timeless American cruiser style from its every curve, but despite this classic look, the addition of C-ABS brings the latest in braking technology to the machine, as well as increased safety and peace of mind. Colours for 2010 now include Heavy Grey Metallic (with two-tone Candy Blaze Orange) and Graphite Black.

In the naked category, Honda has further updated its range. The semi-faired CBF600S ABS is a dependable workhorse, delivering comfort, performance and ease-of-use in any situation, as well as utilising a version of the trusted powerplant from the CBR600RR. The machine comes with Honda’s ABS system, with four eye-catching new colour schemes for 2010 including Pearl Cool White/Black, Pearl Siena Red/Black, Dragon Green Metallic/Black and a solid Pearl Nightstar Black. Its naked sibling – the CBF600N does not feature Honda’s ABS system, but shares many of the same features of the S, as well as the new 2010 colours of Pearl Cool White, Dragon Green Metallic and Pearl Nightstar Black.

Honda’s flagship ‘Naked’ – the CB1000R – also features new colours for 2010. The machine – which at its heart is the Fireblade engine and a sports-derived chassis – now comes in Pearl Siena Red/Pearl Nightstar Black, Matt Vanguard/Beige Metallic, Pearl Nightstar Black or Pearl Cool White. All these colour options are available on the standard and ABS equipped versions.

In the learner-friendly 125 class, Honda’s popular XL125V Varadero has a reputation for being a reliable commuting machine. 2010 sees the introduction of a striking new Shasta White colour scheme with a black tank.

Honda’s range of class-leading scooters also sport some stylish colours. The incredibly popular SH125i has always offered good comfort, practicality, economy and the sort of performance you expect from a larger capacity scooter. The 125’s big brother – the SH300i C-ABS – also comes with a new Sword Silver paint scheme for the new season.

These latest 2010 machines, along with further models still to be announced, will be introduced into the Honda motorcycle range between October and early 2010, with exact availability dates and prices being announced closer to the arrival of each machine.
For further information about any of Honda’s great range of scooters, off-road machines or road bikes, genuine parts, accessories, latest offers and forthcoming events, visit your local dealer who can be found using the ‘Dealer Search’ facility within the motorcycles section of honda.co.uk