EICMA 2023: Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP Revealed - The Sharpest Homologation Special

Honda has pulled the wraps off its latest track-focused, homologation special superbike, the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP at EICMA 2023 in Milan, Italy. Developed with significant input from Honda Racing Corporation (HRC), the newest Fireblade is perhaps the most unhinged bike to bear the iconic nameplate.

The new Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP brings a host of changes in terms of design, tech and performance as Honda's racing arm looks to return to the top of the racing scene in the superbike scene.

 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP

Powering the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP is a heavily revised 1,000cc short-stroke, inline four-cylinder semi-cam gear train engine that churns out a whopping 214.5bhp at 14,000rpm and 113Nm of torque at 12,000rpm.

While the engine may deploy the same amount of power and torque as before, it has been heavily revised. The engine has seen numerous enhancements, a higher compression ratio, and revised valve timing, with new 3-stage unequal pitch springs.

 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP

Furthermore, the crankshaft and con-rods have been optimised for weight reduction, while all the gear ratios and primary drive have been shortened, boosting acceleration and corner exit drive.

The redline of the engine also slides up the rpm scale to help protect the engine. At startup, the redline is at 8,000rpm and when the coolant gets up to optimal operating temperature it moves to just over 14,000rpm. The bike also features 4-2-1 downpipes that feed a lightweight Akrapovič muffler that is larger but slightly less capable of shredding eardrums.

 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP

Honda has introduced a 2-motor Throttle-By-Wire system, that ensures smooth control over both acceleration and engine braking. The Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) has been fine-tuned to match the new power output character and gear ratios. Riders can choose from three default riding modes and customise parameters for power, engine braking, HSTC, and wheelie control. Additionally, a 4-level Start Mode is available for race starts.

The chassis of the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP has been improved for better steering accuracy and grip feel. The updated aluminium frame provides better balance and is suspended off third-generation Öhlins Smart Electronic Control (S-EC3.0) setup with Öhlins 43mm NPX (SV) front forks and a TTX36 (SV) rear monoshock.

 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP

The braking system boasts twin 320mm front discs at the front that are clamped down by Brembo Stylema R radial-mount four-piston callipers. The rear disc is a 220mm unit clamped down by 2-piston Brembo callipers.

The homologation-special for Honda's WSBK setup rides on 17-inch wheels fitted with either Pirelli Diablo Supercorsa SP V3 or Bridgestone RS11 tyres measuring 120/70-ZR17 at the front and 200/55-ZR17 M/C at the rear.

 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP

Honda has made several aerodynamic improvements to the fairing design, including new winglets for improved high-speed agility and a rear aero step to enhance the rear traction feel. The riding position has been adjusted with raised handlebars and lowered footpegs for increased rider freedom and control.

The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP is available in Grand Prix Red (Tricolour), and Honda also offers a limited edition Carbon Edition featuring carbon fibre components and a unique paint scheme.

 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP

Thoughts About The Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP

The new Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP is more than just a motorcycle; it is a machine that the Japanese marque is hoping reignites its WSBK challenge.

Article Published On: Tuesday, November 7, 2023, 18:27 [IST]
Read more on: #eicma #honda motorcycle
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