The CBR900RR was introduced in 1992 and was fitted with an 893 cc, in-line 4 engine. When introduced, it set a precedent for light weight in the super bike class. At 453 lb (205 kg) with a full tank of Fuel, the CBR900RR was just 4 lb (2 kg) heavier than Honda's own CBR600F2, and 76 lb (34 kg) lighter than the next-lightest open-class machine at the time, the Yamaha FZR1000.
Minor changes to the '94 model included an improved shift drum to cure notchy shifting, and steadier mirrors.
In a move to refine the CBR900RR's handling traits over bumpy pavement, the 1995 model's suspension was upgraded with revised spring and damping rates, and a compression adjuster was added to the front fork. More aggressive bodywork incorporated a "cut reflector" design headlight and fewer of the CBR's unique fairing holes. Slimmer and firmer footpegs were patterned after the Honda RC45, and a shift linkage replaced the original model's backward pedal.A new instrument panel included an electronic speedometer that measured speed from the countershaft sprocket. The only engine change in 1995 was the replacement of the aluminum valve cover with a magnesium piece.
1996 brought the first major changes to the CBR900RR. In order to achieve a more optimized balance of rigidity, Honda significantly altered the 1996 CBR's chassis and suspension. The frame and swingarm were fabricated from larger, thinner-walled extrusions for reduced torsional rigidity. The fork and shock internals were re-designed, and the swingarm pivot raised by 5 mm (0.2 in). Revised ergonomics brought the bars 10 mm (0.4 in) higher and swept back five degrees more than earlier models, along with a slimmer gas tank. Engine updates included a bump in displacement to 919 cc (56.1 cu in) via a 1 mm (0.039 in) bore increase, slightly higher compression, a curved radiator, larger muffler, extra clutch plates, smaller alternator, and the addition of a throttle position sensor. The 1996 model carried over to 1997 unchanged except for the updates to color/graphics offerings.
In 1998, Honda continued subtle refinements in the CBR919RR's chassis. It saw frame stiffness closer to the original model's, revised suspension internals, and 5 mm (0.2 in) less triple clamp offset (an almost universal aftermarket upgrade to previous models). New brake calipers acted on larger front discs, the fairing was re-shaped and raised footpegs subtly changed ergonomics again. Eighty percent of the engine's internals were all-new to reduce weight and minimize friction; other updates included redesigned combustion chambers and porting, aluminum composite cylinders, new pistons, a smaller and lighter clutch pack, revised gearbox ratios, larger radiator, and a new stainless steel exhaust header.
Technical information;
Manufacturer - Honda
Named - Fireblade
Year - 1992 - 1999
Class - Sport bike
Engine - 893cc, 1993-1995, in-line 4, liquid cooled
- 919cc 1996-1999, in-line 4, liquid cooled
Bore /stroke - 70.0 x 58.0 mm, 1993-1995
- 71.0 x 58.0 mm, 1996-1999
Transmission - 6-speed gearbox, chain driven
Power - 128 bhp @10,500 rpm
Weight - 180 kg
Seat height - 810 mm
Wheelbase - 1,405 mm
Suspension - Front; oil damped forks
- Rear; single shock
Brakes - Front; 310mm dual disc
- Rear; 220 mm single disc
Tyres - Front; 130/70-ZR16
- Rear; 180/55-ZR17, 1993-1995
- Rear; 190/50ZR-17, 1996-1999.