SP FIREBLADE HEADED FOR OZ IN 2020

A brand new machine, built with an unwavering focus on circuit riding, with unprecedented levels of performance and control. The inline four-cylinder engine draws heavily on the RC213V-S’s combustion efficiency ­and low-friction technologies – while also sharing its bore and stroke; it also features titanium con-rods and forged aluminium pistons.

The CBR1000RR-R SP will be the only Fireblade variant available for the Australian market, offered in a HRC-inspired Grand Prix Red (tri colour) or a Matte Pearl Black. Pricing and exact arrival date will be announced at a later date.

This new Fireblade SP offers an optimised Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and adjustable Start Mode added to Power, Engine Brake and Wheelie Control; a quick shifter is standard. An aluminium diamond frame features a longer RCV213V-S-style swingarm, with six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), 3-level Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) and second-generation Öhlins Smart Electronic Control (S-EC) suspension and user interface. New Brembo Stylema brake callipers bite 330mm discs through 2-level ABS.

The bodywork and riding position have an uncompromising focus on aerodynamic performance and the fairing features MotoGP-derived winglets to generate downforce. A full-colour TFT screen and Honda Smart Key are the finishing touches.

From a clean sheet, Honda and HRC’s development engineers set to work creating a new inline four-cylinder engine for the CBR1000RR-R SP. It’s a compact, short-stroke layout – sharing the bore and stroke of the RC213V – and features a semi-cam gear train, finger-follower rocker arms, titanium con-rods, RC213V-S internal friction reduction technologies, piston jets with check ball system and a built-in bottom bypass passage for the cylinder water jacket.

A ram-air duct in the front fairing tip feeds through the headstock directly into the airbox. The 4-2-1 exhaust downpipes are ovalized and the end-can has been developed in conjunction with Akrapovic.

Throttle By Wire has been enhanced for improved feel and three default riding modes feature options to change Power, Engine Brake, Wheelie Control and the optimised Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). The electronics package also now includes adjustable Start Mode.

A completely new aluminium diamond frame uses the rear of the engine as the upper shock mount; the swingarm is longer and based on the RC213V-S design. The rigidity balance, weight distribution and steering geometry have been carefully adjusted for the increased engine output, in terms of front and rear grip levels, and feel for both.

A new 43mm Öhlins NPX front fork replaces the NIX fork of the previous model and second-generation Öhlins Object Based Tuning interface (OBTi) offers finer control of settings front and rear. The front discs are larger in diameter and worked by new Brembo Stylema four-piston calipers while the ABS is adjustable for track riding. The rear tyre is now sized 200/55-ZR17.

A six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) provides accurate 3D estimation of riding dynamics and provides input to manage all of the electronic systems. It also controls the new rod-type 3-level Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD).

Honda’s RC213V MotoGP machine has leant some of its slippery aerodynamics to the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, including winglets to increase downforce and improve braking stability. The riding position is also much more compact. The fully customisable 5-inch TFT display offers intuitive control operated via a simplified four-way switch on the left handlebar. Honda’s Smart Key system adds convenience.