Removing the traditional kei car frame, and replacing it with the advanced components of a high-performance superbike.
It’s small, it’s yellow, and it has a clearly retro design as a hatchback. This isn’t a Mini; it’s a Honda N600 from the early ’70s. It was equipped originally with a petite 600cc-ish kei car engine that, when everything aligned perfectly, could crank out roughly 40 full horsepower on a good day.
Pleasing to the eye but not as enjoyable when driving; potentially frustrating, varying based on one’s mood and patience levels on a certain day.
However, that’s all set to change soon.
Cars and Cameras
Each year, they invite a group of friends to participate in what they refer to as Build Week. During this event, their aim is to finish an incredibly ambitious task within seven days by putting in continuous effort throughout the duration. Of course, there are moments set aside for rest; however, the idea is that bringing together skilled do-it-yourself enthusiasts will enable them to accomplish substantial amounts of work much more quickly compared to when working alone.
In 2025, they plan to transform this unassuming little Honda N600 by installing a distinct Honda engine within. Which engine? It’s a
CBR1000RR
Superbike million. This indicates, amongst other aspects, that it would not simply involve swapping out the small N600 motor. The plan includes changing it to rear-wheel-drive configuration, with components such as the fuel tank, radiator, and battery being relocated into what used to be the engine compartment at the front end to assist in balancing the overall weight distribution of the final build.
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Certainly, we must address the minor detail that the CBR1000RR engine produces approximately 170 horsepower. This figure is over four times what the N600 was originally designed for, plus the motor will now sit at the back rather than up front. As such, numerous additional modifications would have to be implemented to ensure this tiny kei vehicle does not contort itself like a delectable soft pretzel when in operation.
They’re assembling quite an eclectic mix of components here, featuring a rear axle sourced from a Mazda Miata, some suspension pieces taken from a Polaris RZR, and various other elements used to bring everything into alignment. Despite being imported from Texas, where cars can easily succumb to rust, this particular N600 remains impressively corrosion-free for its years; however, extensive modifications still have to be made—namely cutting apart the back end—to accommodate both the new engine placement and suspension setup.
How crazy does it sound once this build is finished? They intend to head over to the Virginia International Raceway go-kart track for an exhilarating ride after completion. Do you want to get behind the wheel of this, or are they completely nuts? Share your opinions in the comments section.