Click here for an CycleVIN Motorcycle History Report on this 1996 Honda CBR900RR. Additional photos are available here for your perusal.
Thanks to the introduction of machines like the Ducati 916 and the Yamaha R1, the 90s were a glorious decade for sportbikes. But the start of what we consider modern sportbikes came out of Honda when they introduced the CBR900RR in 1993, and it’s primarily due to Tadao Baba. Baba started at Honda in 1962 out of high school, and he steadily worked his way up through R&D.
The CBR900RR was his first solo project with Big Red, and the goal was to create a sportbike that was easy to ride. In an interview with Cycle World, Tadao noted, “I told people at the time this new bike would change the thinking for sportbike design, that it would be fun both in corners and a straight line. Originally we started with a CBR750RR but we already had the VFR, so perhaps make it a 1000? No. We also had CBR1000F. Instead we saw that if we took the dimensions of a 750, use the base motor but keep same bore and increase stroke it came to 893cc, so a new class was born, the 900 class.”
His outlook on current sportbikes was quite negative:
“How can these be called sports bikes when they are so very big and heavy? They didn’t deserve the name.”
You can probably guess what Baba focused on, and the results were staggering. The CBR900RR was just 4 pounds heavier more than the CBR600F2, and it was a whopping 76 pounds lighter than its lightest literbike competition! Simply put, it was a revelation.
1996 brought improvements to the frame, swingarm, and suspension – as well as the popular Erion Racing tribute livery.
This example (VIN: JH2SC3310TM000557) was built in February of 1996.
The odometer shows 16,824 miles.
It was given a recent service which included a new battery, new tires, and a new chain/sprocket.
It also got a valve adjustment, carb clean, and tank clean.
To allow for modern rubber, a 17″ wheel has been installed up front. The sale includes the original 16″ front wheel in matching colors.
It is equipped with a Yoshimura slip-on exhaust.
Second Look seat skin.
MZS adjustable levers and aftermarket grips.
Please note that the dash lights do not currently work. Our White Glove service would be glad to sort this out for the winner if desired.
The sale includes a rear paddock stand as well as new OEM rear foot pegs (not pictured). Currently located at our location in Santa Monica, California, this CBR is offered on a clean California title. Make an appointment to come inspect it in person, or let us know your questions in the comments below!
