Honda CBF600N [2008 – 2013]: A Timeless Middleweight Companion
Introduction
The Honda CBF600N stands as a testament to the philosophy of “right-sized” motorcycling. Produced between 2008 and 2013, this naked bike carved a niche for itself by blending everyday usability with just enough sporty flair to keep riders grinning. Designed to cater to both seasoned motorcyclists and those transitioning from smaller machines, the CBF600N remains a compelling choice even today. Its liquid-cooled inline-four engine, approachable ergonomics, and Honda’s legendary reliability make it a bike that’s easy to recommend—and even easier to fall in love with.
Let’s dive into what makes this generation of the CBF600N a standout in the middleweight category and why it continues to resonate with riders over a decade after its debut.
Design & Ergonomics: Practicality Meets Understated Style
The CBF600N’s design is quintessentially Honda: clean, functional, and devoid of unnecessary frills. Its naked bike silhouette features a minimalist headlight cluster, a compact fuel tank with subtle knee indents, and a tail section that prioritizes practicality over drama. Over its production years, Honda offered color schemes ranging from bold greens and olives to classic blacks and metallics, ensuring there’s a CBF600N to match any rider’s personality.
The riding position is where this bike truly shines. With a seat height of 785 mm (30.9 inches), it’s accessible for shorter riders while still offering ample legroom for taller pilots. The handlebars are wide and slightly swept back, promoting a relaxed upright posture that’s ideal for city commutes and weekend adventures alike. The seat itself is generously padded—a rarity in this segment—making multi-hour rides far less punishing than on its more aggressively styled competitors.
Engine & Performance: Smooth Operator
At the heart of the CBF600N lies a 599.3 cc liquid-cooled inline-four engine, producing 76.4 HP (55.8 kW) at 10,500 RPM and 59 Nm (43.5 lb-ft) of torque at 8,250 RPM. These numbers might seem modest on paper, but the real magic is in the delivery. Throttle response is linear and predictable, with no sudden surges to intimidate newer riders. The engine pulls eagerly from as low as 4,000 RPM, making highway overtakes or uphill climbs feel effortless.
The six-speed transmission (note: 2008 models had a 5-speed gearbox) is slick and precise, with a light clutch action that’s a blessing in stop-and-go traffic. Cruising at 120 km/h (75 mph) sees the engine loping along at a relaxed 6,000 RPM, where vibrations are minimal thanks to Honda’s meticulous balancing. The PGM-FI fuel injection system ensures crisp throttle response across all rev ranges, and fuel efficiency hovers around 5.2 L/100 km (45 mpg), giving the 20L (5.3-gallon) tank a theoretical range of 380 km (236 miles).
Handling & Dynamics: Confidence Inspirer
Weighing in at 213 kg (470 lbs) wet, the CBF600N isn’t the lightest bike in its class, but its mass is distributed low and centrally, giving it a planted feel. The 41mm telescopic front forks and 7-step adjustable rear monoshock offer a plush ride over broken pavement while maintaining enough composure for spirited cornering.
The 120/70-ZR17 front and 160/60-ZR17 rear tires provide ample grip, and the U-section twin 6-spoke wheels add a touch of visual aggression. Braking duties are handled by dual 240mm front discs with dual-piston calipers and a single rear disc. ABS was available on select models from 2010 onward, and it’s a worthwhile feature—the system intervenes smoothly without feeling intrusive.
In the twisties, the CBF600N rewards smooth inputs. It’s not a razor-sharp supersport, but it carves corners with neutral steering and enough feedback to let you know exactly what the front tire is doing. Ground clearance of 130mm (5.1 inches) is sufficient for real-world riding, though hardcore knee-down enthusiasts might crave more.
Comfort & Daily Usability
Honda’s focus on practicality shines through in everyday use. The wide seat accommodates rider and pillion in comfort, and the passenger grab rail is sturdy enough for secure luggage strapping. Wind protection is minimal—this is a naked bike, after all—but the lack of a fairing pays dividends in urban environments where visibility and maneuverability are key.
The analog-digital instrument cluster is a model of clarity, with a large tachometer, digital speed readout, and essential warning lights. Later models added a gear position indicator, a welcome feature for newer riders. Storage options are limited to under-seat cubbies large enough for a U-lock or documents, but the bike’s backbone-style frame and rear subframe make aftermarket luggage solutions a breeze to install.
Competition: How Does It Stack Up?
The middleweight naked bike segment has always been fiercely contested. Here’s how the CBF600N fared against its contemporaries:
- Yamaha FZ6 (FZ6-N): Sharper styling and a higher-revving engine (98 HP) gave the Yamaha a sportier edge, but its seat was harder and vibrations more pronounced at highway speeds.
- Suzuki GSX650F: With full fairing and a slightly detuned GSX-R engine, the Suzuki appealed to tourers but felt bulkier in tight quarters.
- Kawasaki ER-6n: The parallel-twin ER-6n was lighter and more fuel-efficient but lacked the CBF’s smooth power delivery and premium build quality.
Where the Honda excelled was in striking a near-perfect balance between comfort, performance, and reliability. It may not have been the fastest or flashiest, but as an all-rounder, it’s aged far better than many rivals.
Maintenance: Keeping Your CBF600N in Prime Shape
Hondas are renowned for their durability, and the CBF600N is no exception. That said, a few key maintenance points deserve attention:
- Valve Adjustments: Every 24,000 km (15,000 miles), check valve clearances (intake: 0.20 ±0.03mm / exhaust: 0.28 ±0.03mm). Use NGK CR8EH-9 or iridium CR8EHIX-9 plugs for optimal performance.
- Chain Care: The 124-link O-ring chain and 16/42 sprocket combo lasts well if cleaned and lubricated every 500 km (310 miles).
- Fluids:
- Engine oil: 2.8L (3.0 US quarts) of 10W-30 with filter changes every 6,000 km (3,700 miles).
- Coolant: Replace 2.8L every 2 years using ethylene glycol-based fluid.
- Brakes: DOT 4 fluid flush every 2 years, or sooner if lever feel degrades.
- Tire Pressures: 2.5 bar (36 psi) front / 2.9 bar (42 psi) rear for solo riding.
Common upgrades available at MOTOPARTS.store include:
- High-performance sintered brake pads for sharper stopping
- Adjustable levers for improved ergonomics
- Aftermarket exhaust systems to unlock the inline-four’s throatier notes
Conclusion: The Everyman’s Motorcycle, Perfected
The Honda CBF600N isn’t about chasing specsheets or dominating track days. It’s about delivering a riding experience that’s engaging without being exhausting, practical without being bland. Whether you’re threading through city traffic, carving backroads, or embarking on a weekend tour, this bike handles it all with unflappable competence.
Time has only solidified its reputation. In a world of ever-more-specialized motorcycles, the CBF600N remains a refreshing reminder that sometimes, the best bike is the one that simply does everything well. And with a robust aftermarket support network—including everything from MOTOPARTS.store’s premium maintenance kits to performance upgrades—this Honda is a machine you can enjoy for decades to come.
Ready to make your CBF600N truly yours? Explore our curated selection of parts and accessories tailored for this iconic model.
Specifications sheet
| Engine | |
|---|---|
| Stroke: | Four-stroke |
| Max power: | 55 kW | 74.0 hp |
| Max torque: | 59 Nm |
| Fuel system: | PGM-FI electronic fuel injection |
| Max power @: | 10500 rpm |
| Displacement: | 599 ccm |
| Max torque @: | 8250 rpm |
| Bore x stroke: | 67.0 x 42.5 mm |
| Configuration: | Inline |
| Cooling system: | Liquid |
| Compression ratio: | 11.6:1 |
| Number of cylinders: | 4 |
| Valves per cylinder: | 4 |
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Wheelbase: | 1490 mm (58.7 in) |
| Dry weight: | 213 |
| Wet weight: | 230 |
| Seat height: | 785 mm (30.9 in) |
| Overall width: | 765 mm (30.1 in) |
| Overall height: | 1240 mm (48.8 in) |
| Overall length: | 2160 mm (85.0 in) |
| Ground clearance: | 130 mm (5.1 in) |
| Fuel tank capacity: | 20.0 L (5.3 US gal) |
| Drivetrain | |
|---|---|
| Final drive: | chain |
| Chain length: | 124 |
| Transmission: | 6-speed |
| Rear sprocket: | 42 |
| Front sprocket: | 16 |
| Maintainance | |
|---|---|
| Rear tire: | 160/60-z-17 |
| Engine oil: | 10W30 |
| Front tire: | 120/70-z-17 |
| Idle speed: | 1300 ± 100 RPM |
| Break fluid: | DOT 4 |
| Spark plugs: | NGK CR8EH-9 or NGK CR8EHIX-9 |
| Spark plug gap: | 0.9 |
| Coolant capacity: | 2.8 |
| Forks oil capacity: | 0.9 |
| Engine oil capacity: | 2.8 |
| Engine oil change interval: | Every 5000km or 2 years, whichever comes first |
| Valve clearance (intake, cold): | 0.17–0.23 mm |
| Valve clearance check interval: | 24,000 km / 15,000 mi |
| Valve clearance (exhaust, cold): | 0.25–0.31 mm |
| Recommended tire pressure (rear): | 2.9 bar (42 psi) |
| Recommended tire pressure (front): | 2.5 bar (36 psi) |
| Chassis and Suspension | |
|---|---|
| Rear tire: | 160/60-z-17 |
| Front tire: | 120/70-z-17 |
| Rear brakes: | Single disc, single-piston caliper (ABS on some models) |
| Front brakes: | Double disc, dual-piston calipers (ABS on some models) |
| Rear suspension: | Monoshock damper with 7-step adjustable preload, 125mm axle travel |
| Front suspension: | 41mm telescopic fork, 120mm axle travel |
