Honda CBR 1000 RR (2004-2005): A Timeless Superbike Experience

Introduction

The early 2000s marked a golden era for liter-class sportbikes, and the Honda CBR 1000 RR (2004-2005) stands as a defining machine of this period. Known for its razor-sharp handling, explosive power delivery, and Honda’s legendary reliability, this generation of the CBR 1000 RR remains a favorite among track-day enthusiasts and collectors alike. Having spent a day with a well-preserved 2004 model, it’s clear why this bike earned its reputation as a "rider’s machine" – a blend of raw engineering and intuitive design that still feels thrilling nearly two decades later.

Design & Styling

The CBR 1000 RR’s design screams purpose. Its angular fairings, dual headlights, and aggressive tail section reflect Honda’s "Total Control" philosophy. The 2004-2005 models came in bold color schemes like Red/Black, Titanium/Black, and Blue/Orange/White/Red, all accentuating its track-ready posture. At a standstill, the bike looks compact – the 1,412 mm (55.6-inch) wheelbase and 179.6 kg (396 lbs) dry weight give it a taut, predatory stance.

The 826 mm (32.5-inch) seat height feels taller than modern sportbikes, but the narrow fuel tank and ergonomic clip-ons make it manageable for riders of average height. That said, this isn’t a bike designed for all-day comfort. The riding position leans you forward aggressively, with pegs set high and rearward – perfect for carving corners, less ideal for highway slogs.

Engine & Performance

At the heart of the CBR 1000 RR lies its 998cc inline-four engine, producing 172 PS (126 kW) at the crank. Honda’s Dual Stage Fuel Injection (DSFI) system ensures crisp throttle response across the rev range. From idle to its 12,000 RPM redline, the engine builds power linearly, with a ferocious surge past 8,000 RPM that pins you to the seat.

What stands out is its versatility. In city traffic, the engine remains docile, aided by a smooth 6-speed gearbox and light clutch pull. But open the throttle on a backroad, and the CBR transforms. The exhaust note – a metallic howl through its underseat muffler – becomes addictive. Acceleration is relentless: 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes under 3 seconds, and the top speed eclipses 270 km/h (168 mph).

Honda’s focus on reliability shines here. The liquid-cooled DOHC engine features a stout 11.9:1 compression ratio and rugged internals. Even high-mileage examples rarely suffer major issues if maintained properly.

Handling & Chassis

The CBR 1000 RR’s chassis is where it truly excels. The 43mm inverted HMAS cartridge fork and Pro-Link rear shock offer adjustable preload, rebound, and compression damping. Out of the box, the setup leans toward firmness, providing laser-precision feedback on smooth tarmac. Over bumps, the suspension communicates without jarring – a balance few rivals matched at the time.

At speed, the bike feels telepathic. The 23.8° rake angle and 102 mm (4.0-inch) trail strike a perfect middle ground between quick steering and stability. Flicking it through S-curves requires minimal effort, and the 190/50-ZR17 rear tire inspires confidence mid-corner. Braking is equally impressive: the dual 320mm front discs with 4-piston calipers deliver strong, progressive bite, though modern riders might crave more initial feel compared to radial-mount setups.

Competition

In 2004, the liter-bike wars were fierce. Here’s how the CBR 1000 RR stacked up:

• Yamaha YZF-R1 (2004-2006): The R1 boasted a sharper top-end rush and lighter feel (177 kg dry). However, its engine lacked the CBR’s midrange grunt, and its suspension was less refined over rough surfaces.
• Suzuki GSX-R1000 (2003-2005): The GSX-R’s 988cc engine made slightly more peak power (178 PS), but its chassis felt vaguer at extreme lean angles. Suzuki’s fuel injection also suffered from minor low-RPM hiccups.
• Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R (2004-2005): The ZX-10R was a wildcard – lighter (166 kg dry) and faster in a straight line, but its twitchy steering and abrupt throttle response made it less forgiving for less experienced riders.

The Honda’s ace was its balance. It didn’t dominate any single category but excelled in all – the Swiss Army knife of superbikes.

Maintenance

As a MOTOPARTS.store journalist, I’ll highlight key upkeep points and upgrade opportunities:

1. Valve Adjustments: The inline-four requires valve clearance checks every 24,000 km (15,000 miles). Intake valves should be 0.16 ± 0.03 mm, exhaust 0.30 ± 0.03 mm (cold). Consider shim kits for precise adjustments.
2. Oil & Filter: Use SAE 10W-40 oil (3.1L with filter). Synthetic oils like Motul 7100 improve high-RPM protection.
3. Cooling System: The 3.55L radiator benefits from periodic flushes. Upgrade to a high-capacity radiator or silicone hoses for track use.
4. Brakes: Swap OEM pads for EBC HH sintered pads for better bite. DOT 4 fluid should be bled annually.
5. Chain & Sprockets: The 114-link chain and 16/40 sprocket combo wears quickly under hard use. A DID 520VX2 chain and Vortex sprockets reduce maintenance frequency.
6. Tires: The stock 120/70-ZR17 front and 190/50-ZR17 rear favor grip over longevity. Modern rubber like Michelin Power GP or Bridgestone Battlax S22 dramatically improve cornering confidence.

Final Thoughts

The 2004-2005 Honda CBR 1000 RR isn’t just a relic – it’s a testament to an era when analog thrills ruled the road. Its combination of accessible power, faultless handling, and bulletproof engineering makes it a compelling choice for riders seeking a pure sportbike experience. While newer models offer rider aids and peakier engines, this CBR rewards skill with transparency, connecting you to every input like few modern machines can.

For owners, MOTOPARTS.store carries everything from OEM-spec maintenance kits to performance upgrades. Whether you’re restoring a garage queen or prepping for track days, this Honda remains a platform that thrives on thoughtful customization.

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Specifications sheet

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