Styling
Honda included some styling changes due to criticisms of the F4 being too bland. The 2001 US F4i features a new subframe which raises the seat by five milimeters and an improved two-tier seat allows for more storage room in the rear compartment. The new tail unit has less padding and a higher perch for the passenger. The F4i’s tail-light is smaller with a new dual-bulb configuration. The F4i features a new dash layout with a large analog tachometer. The new LCD digital display includes a speedometer, odometer, clock, engine temperature read-out, amber shift light, and trip meters.
The F4i's new bodywork carries a more 'racy' look and provides a 3% reduction in drag. It also houses a new dual headlight front cowl design which uses 40% brighter H7 bulbs compared to the old H4 bulbs. The headlights are dual multi-reflector units covered by a one-piece flexiglass lens. The turn stalks are shorter and the mirrors are now positioned higher and closer to the rider. The elimination of carburetors allowed for a slightly larger air box and a larger fuel tank (4.8 us gallons / incl. 0.9 reserve) complete with a delayed fuel level sensor to prevent false readings when the bike is at an angle.
In 2004 Honda replaced the black frame with one in silver and a banana seat due to complaints of comfort and to differentiate the F4i from the 600RR. This model is the same as the CBR600F1 and onwards that was sold in the UK from 2001.
Two UK versions of the F4i were released in 2001. The CBR600F F1 and onwards had the banana style seat found on pre PGM FI bikes whilst the CBR600F FS1/FS2 (the F sport) were sold with the two tier seat units, black frames and various other performance upgrades as found in the US models. The F sport was discontinued upon the arrival of the CBR600RR in 2003.
Read more about this topic: Honda CBR600F4i
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