The CBR500R is making waves in the motorcycling fraternity for obvious reasons: it is creating a new class for the beginner or intermediate motorcyclist with the intention of graduating to a supersport motorcycle.
The CBR500R will be a parallel twin displacing 470cc. Output is claimed to be 47bhp, giving it a specific output of 100bhp/litre. Torque is said to be 40.7Nm. Top speed is rumoured to be in the range of 170kmph, and tyre sizes are 120/70 R17 front and 160/60 R17 at the rear. The power output meets regulations for the new A2 licence slab in Europe. This will enable it to be the motorcycle for learners to upgrade to from their Kawasaki Ninja 250R, whose power output is at the limit of the beginner's licence levels.
Source: Hell for leather magazine
