Honda Canada has launched more than ten new models for 2010. Some are variations on a common base, such as the VT1300 Fury, Shadow and Interstate models, while the VFR1200 stands out as a corporate flagship that will serve as a basis for at least one more touring model, the upcoming replacement for the ST1300.

The CBF1000 likes the track, and so do riders with a little too much girth for full-on sport bikes! (Photo: Rob O'Brien)

There were more gems amongst the new bikes we rode at the 2010 Honda Canada press launch in Georgia in early March. One standout was the cosmetically all-new-for-2010 CBF1000FA that quickly became the favourite with many testers, both as a calm, comfortable and supremely competent street ride, and as a fun bike for the track.

More personality, power and efficiency from the engine
The CBR1000RR-derived motor has been upgraded for 2010, with power up from last year by a much appreciated 10%, to 106hp at 9,000rpm, and a slight increase in torque (0.7lb-ft) to 71lb-ft at a very civilized and easy to use 6,500rpm. Improved mapping and other tweaks, such as a bump in compression ratio from 11 to 11.2:1 have also improved thermal efficiency by 7%.

Cutting maximum revs of this engine from around 12,000rpm in CBR1000RR guise of a few years ago, to a relatively low 9,000 (A 25% drop) on the current CBF1000, effectively cuts power by the same percentage. But Honda did good work on the mapping side, as even though max power is lowish, the motor did gain some real torque all across the every-day rev range, from 2500 to over 7000rpm, where usability is improved and the performance of the bike already exceeds the law and common sense.

The six-speed gearbox, with revised ratios to make full use of low-down torque, is classic Honda – with light and positive shifts and the right gear for every circumstance.

Chassis and suspensions – Stiffer and lighter than last year!
The new F1000 loses 5kg against the 2009 model, through the use of a stiffer “Mono-backbone” aluminum frame, featuring a 41mm traditional fork and monoshock at the rear, both with adjustable preload.

Fit a high performance engine from something like the CBR1000RR, and you get good performance right off the bat and a nice, light and compact drive train. You also inherit enough potential for those who need a little more oomph. (Photo: Bill Petro)