1999 Honda CBR900RR

Description

Additional photos are available here for your perusal.

In the early 1990s, Honda turned the motorcycling world on its head when it released the CBR900RR Fireblade. The ‘Blade’s designer, Tadao Baba, primarily focused on keeping weight down above all else — a must considering his brief was to deliver a modern superbike with open-class power, weighing no more than your average 600 of the day. The “Fireblade” name is actually the result of a mistranslation of the word “lightning”, and it didn’t fit squarely into any of the existing major classes. Rather, Honda’s goal was to create the best possible road-going superbike, and the eventual result was the 900RR.

At the heart of the original Fireblade — which didn’t come to US shores until ’93 — was a 893cc in-line four which was essentially a stroked three-quarter liter mill with a 70mm bore. Though it wasn’t the most powerful engine of its day, the RR’s 124 hp, 65 ft-lbs of torque, and 160 mph top speed were nothing to scoff at, especially with its svelte weight. A number of measures were taken by Baba and his team to ensure the Fireblade would hit its target weight. This included using a highly-developed lightweight frame, 16” front wheel, conventional forks instead of heavier inverted units (though the 900RR’s front-end was designed to look like an upside down fork) and even the Swiss cheesed-nose.

In the end, Baba-san came through, delivering a 900 that tipped the scales at around 450lbs wet. It was less than 10lbs heavier than the CBR600, and a whopping 100lbs lighter than most of the open-class competition of the day. In ’94, Honda saved further by replacing the steel upper cowl stay with an aluminum piece and replacing the aluminum cylinder head cover with a magnesium unit.

Manufactured in December of 1998, this example is VIN: JH2SC3305XM301788. The seller acquired the bike three years ago from a collection of Japanese motorcycles located in Tennessee.

During his ownership, the seller has covered approximately 200 miles. The odometer shows 13,461 miles.

Maintenance:
The seller reports that he has performed a complete fluid flush and fill. Additionally, he has replaced the spark plugs as well as the oil filter and air filter. He notes that “the rear shock is ready for a rebuild.”

Modifications:
ProGrip tank pad.

Honda sticker.

Inside of the tank:

It is riding on Bridgestone Battlax BT10 tires that have aged out.

The sale includes two keys (one pictured) and the original owner’s manual.

Cosmetic Blemishes: please see the album up top for all known cosmetic blemishes. Here is a selection:

Currently located in Columbus, Ohio, this Honda is offered on a clean Ohio title. Have any CBR900RR stories or questions about this listing? Let us know in the “Comments” tab!