For the second year running, Honda's incredible CBR600F3 righteously spanked the competition in the 600 Supersport class. And for 1997, the F3 is better in every way imaginable. More power. More comfort. Even better handling. More aerodynamic. In short, since the competition doesn't stand a chance of keeping up, we've started competing against ourselves, and you're the winner.

A glance at the F3's bodywork will show the more streamlined rear tail section, along with a front fender designed to improve downforce and steering precision at high speeds. And because not everyone spends their life at the track, the most user-friendly real-world 600 in the class gets a new seat that's been re-profiled to make it even more comfortable.

Specifications	CBR600F3
engine	599cc DOHC liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder
bore and stroke	65 x 45.2 mm
compression ratio	12.0:1
transmission	close-ratio six-speed
final drive	O-ring sealed chain, 15/43
front suspension	41mm HMAS cartridge fork with spring-preload adjustability and adjustable rebound damping
rear suspension	Pro-link Hmas single shock with 7-position spring-preload adjustability and adjustable rebound damping and compression damping
front brakes	dual full-floating discs with four-piston calipers
rear brakes	single disc with single-piston caliper
front tire	120/60ZR-17 radial
rear tire	160/60ZR-17 radial
ground clearance	5.1 inches
seat height	31.9
wheelbase	55.3 inches
dry weight	405.6 pounds
fuel capacity	4.5 gallons, including 0.8-gallon reserve
colors	purple/yellow; black/red/white; red