Let’s face it: the substantially redesigned 2013 CBR600RR is one incredibly cool-looking machine. But that’s only part of the good news. The 2013 CBR600RR looks very trick because it is very trick! This is a situation where form follows function, and in this case the path to the newly configured, aerodynamically efficient bodywork on the 2013 CBR600RR travels directly through Honda’s MotoGP racing efforts.

Using knowledge and techniques gained from the Honda RC212V MotoGP race program, aerodynamic improvements were made to the newest CBR600RR, which shows a 6.5 percent decrease in drag over the previous model. The development and testing processes used to design this all-new CBR600RR bodywork included CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) analysis to study and improve the airflow around the fairing at high speeds. This work led to aerodynamic advancements that reduced drag and also reduced other high-pressure areas to produce lighter, more agile handling and improved wind deflection for enhanced rider comfort.

Thanks to the favorable results for the CBR600RR that were achieved through this process, the same approach was successfully applied to airflow analysis and design changes with the next-generation RC213V MotoGP racing machine, further improving the function of this cutting-edge racing platform. Because at Honda, form truly follows function, whether it’s for a production street bike or the latest-generation world-championship-caliber racing machine.