Honda could plonk a 350cc twin-cylinder unit on the CBR350RR in addition to a 250cc version, keeping the power in-line with competition while also addressing multiple markets.
Revealing the first glimpse of its new Super Sport Concept set for a public debut at the Tokyo Motor Show later this month, Honda took the global biking community by storm as the new quarter-litre offering will be the perfect rival to the newer and sophisticated competition in the segment. More recent reports suggested that the production spec model was pretty much ready while power will come from a parallel-twin motor resting inside the new Trellis frame. Now adding fuel to fire, news comes in that the said powerplant is likely to be a 350cc mill instead of a 250cc unit.
The latest rendering by Japanese magazine Young Machine showcases the Honda Light Weight Super Sport concept in a production-ready form and is christened as the ‘CBR350RR’. Sounds good? We are pretty sure it will be, as the motor is expected to churn out north of 40 HP whilst paired to a slick shifting 6-speed gearbox and will compete against the Kawasaki Ninja 300, Yamaha YZF-R3 and KTM RC 390 in the same space.
The Honda Super Sport Concept impressed us with its sharp and radical styling, most of which is likely to make it to production while the rendering adds new elements like the twin projectors with LED DRLs, chiselled fuel tank and split seats. Mechanical bits including USD front forks and monoshock rear suspension will make it to production as well while ABS will also be a part of the motorcycle when launched overseas at least.
This now brings the question as to how Honda plans to retail the bikes in markets where the engine size is directly proportional to taxation policy. Although speculative, Honda could introduce two engine options which is the gaining trend at present with a 250cc twin-cylinder motor for markets like Indonesia while developed markets get the CBR350RR. Reports further suggest of the launch happening during the first half of 2016, but a clearer perspective will be available by the end of this month.
Rendering Source – Young Machine
