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When Double R’s Aren’t Enough

    It is the equivalent of turning it up to eleven with not just two Rs, but three. Honda has introduced a new litre class sport bike, the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, to occupy a spot at the pinnacle of the company’s motorcycle offerings. The Fireblade features a more compact inline four and an all new frame aimed at increasing both power and rigidity.

    Cost may be an objective as the price of the bike which will be available commencing in summer 2020 has yet to be determine but a MSRP in the vicinity of, or higher than, Yamaha’s new R1M at $27,999 CDN doesn’t seem to be out of the question. Both bikes spec out with  Ohlins Electronic Suspension, a six axis IMU and an entire suite of rider’s aids.

    In Honda’s words:

    Focusing on outright track performance, engineers have developed the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP with engine and chassis technology from MotoGP, the all-new model drawing heavily on the RCV combustion efficiency and low-friction solutions. The engine is more compact than the inline four-cylinder powerplant it replaces and benefits from the use of high-end technologies like titanium connecting rods, forged aluminum pistons and finger-follower rocker arms.

    The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP uses an all-new aluminum diamond frame with increased vertical and torsional rigidity, but decreased horizontal rigidity, for maximum levels of grip and feel. A longer swingarm—stamped from aluminum of 18 individual thicknesses—is developed with lessons learned through Honda’s Grand Prix efforts, further highlighting the connection between the all-new model and Honda’s championship-winning race bikes.

    Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) has been optimized and an adjustable Start Mode joins Power, Engine Brake and Wheelie Control; a quick shifter is standard. The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP is outfitted with a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU), three-level Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) and second-generation Öhlins Smart Electronic Control (S-EC) suspension and user interface. New Brembo Stylema brake calipers bite 330mm rotors through two-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-color TFT screen and Honda Smart Key are the finishing touches.

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