Motorcycle News homepage

05/04/2006 - 2006 machines

Honda’s 2006 machines hit the shops!

TWO OF HONDA’S 2006 machines the Deauville and CBF1000 are now with UK dealers. Both machines were launched successfully in Athens in February. The new CBF1000 follows from Honda’s successful CBF range of purposeful machines that keep in mind the novice of all shapes and sizes.

2006’s latest and largest capacity addition to the CBF family utilises the latest 998cc fuel-injected inline-four cylinder motor from the CBR1000RR Fireblade. In the CBF the motor is specifically tuned for low to mid-range torque which allows for impressive roll-on acceleration for overtaking. The chassis comes from the CBF600, but adapted to handle the larger, more powerful motor. Another thing that’s come from the smaller CBFs is Honda’s ‘Just Fit’ philosophy. The seat can be raised or lowered by 15mm from the standard height of 795mm, while the handlebars can be moved forward by 10mm for taller riders. For further comfort, the screen has two positions to cut down on wind blast.

The new-for-2006 Deauville is a major leap forward over its predecessor. Since its launch back in 1998, the Deauville has quietly won a loyal following by going about its business as a supremely capable and unerringly reliable multi-use machine.

The new model include a new frame and suspension and a more powerful, larger capacity V-twin engine equipped with four-valve heads and fuel-injection. For practical purposes the Deauville received 30% more carrying capacity in the integral panniers in 2002, but this has been increased on the 2006 model, which sees capacity up by almost 11 litres! One of the new features is a ‘straight-through’ hole between the two panniers to secure longer objects safely and larger glove boxes.

The Deauville received Honda’s Honda’s Combined Braking System in 2002 and the whole set-up has been further refined and now has Honda’s ABS system available as an option. The 2006 machine has also had a major facelift with a more flowing, distinctive style featuring ‘piggy-back’ headlights, a two-position windscreen and a new instrument layout. For details of your nearest dealer, simply go to www.honda.co.uk/motorcycles/ and hit the dealer search button.