







The initial petrol engines used were proven four-cylinder units, which had gained a solid reputation in Peugeot models such as the 205, 309 and 405. At first, all mainstream models were powered by derivatives of the TU series 8-valve engine, in 1.1, 1.4 and 1.6 litre guises. The 1.1 was dropped quickly, but the 1.4 and particularly the 1.6 variants sold well; the latter offering a good balance between performance and economy.
Three larger-capacity units were available, but restricted to automatic and performance models. These engines were developments of the larger XU series units which had been used in the 205 GTi 1.9, and larger 405 models. A 1.8 litre version powered cars with both manual (not many 1.8 manuals were produced) and automatic transmission; while two versions of the 2.0 litre engine in 8- and 16-valve guises powered the XSi and S16 models respectively. In Australia, the only engines available were the 1.8 and 2.0L engines.
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The CBR 600 debuted in 1987 and has proven to be one of the most reliable sportsbikes of the modern era. The 'F' series of road-bikes refers to the model being user-friendly and not an all out sports machine. They say the new F4i has departed from that concept to become a lot more track focused, which this new F4i certainly is, but it has not lost it's user-friendliness along the way.
It now features a more aggressive profile to match its improved track performance, and the front end is now much sharper and angular; a concept first kicked off by Yamaha with their 'R' series of road-bikes which Kawasaki then took up, now followed by Honda. The headlights are new dual multi-reflector units covered by a one-piece flexiglass lens. Unfortunately I did not get a chance to test their effectiveness in the dark. The front of the bike now features large ducts for the airbox in the hope of gaining some positive airbox pressure at speed.
A new tail unit has also evolved with what seems like a little less padding and perhaps a bit of a higher perch for the passenger. I did not cover any long distances on the new F4i but I don't think the seat will cause too many complaints in the numb-bum department. The pillion seat opens by way of the ignition key inserted at the rear of the bike and has enough space for a u-lock or perhaps a tightly rolled set of wets, but not much more than that.