Honda baru-baru ini telah memperkenalkan penyelenggaraan teknikal yang signifikan bagi model CBR1000RR-R SP Fireblade tahun 2024.
Walaubagaimanapun, satu permohonan paten baru menunjukkan bahawa Honda juga sedang mengusahakan pembaharuan visual untuk meningkatkan daya aerodynamik sambil mengurangkan rintangan udara.
Satu perubahan yang ketara pada CBR1000RR-R SP tahun 2024 ialah penggunaan winglet bergaya MotoGP pada bahagian hadapan, menggantikan versi sisi pada model sebelumnya. Walaupun winglet ini menyumbang kepada peningkatan downforce bahagian depan, ia juga memperkenalkan rintangan udara tambahan berbanding dengan reka bentuk kabin yang lebih bersih.
Permohonan paten menunjukkan bentuk yang direka semula untuk mencapai keseimbangan antara mengurangkan rintangan udara dan mengekalkan downforce. Reka bentuk inovatif ini memindahkan winglet lebih dekat kepada bahagian hidung motosikal, menggunakan sistem saluran dan ventilasi untuk mengalirkan udara ke atas permukaan dalaman.
Dalam paten Honda, dijelaskan bahawa dengan menggabungkan bentuk sayap terbalik ke bahagian depan kabin, daya aero boleh ditingkatkan tanpa perlu sayap tambahan, akhirnya mengurangkan rintangan udara. Hasilnya adalah peningkatan prestasi pergerakan, termasuk kelajuan maksimum dan prestasi pecutan yang lebih baik, membawa kepada peningkatan prestasi penggunaan bahan api.
Walaupun gambar paten menunjukkan kabin pada CBR1000RR-R SP, Honda menekankan kegunaan reka bentuk ini untuk pelbagai jenis motosikal gaya supersport. Dengan mendapatkan paten untuk ciptaan inovatif ini, Honda bertujuan untuk menghalang pesaing daripada meniru kemajuan yang sama dalam reka bentuk mereka.
Honda has recently unveiled significant technical updates for its 2024 CBR1000RR-R SP Fireblade, enhancing its performance capabilities. However, a new patent application suggests that the company is also working on visual revisions aimed at increasing downforce while minimizing drag.
One noticeable change to the 2024 CBR1000RR-R SP is the adoption of MotoGP-inspired hoop-style winglets on the front, replacing the previous side-mounted versions. While these winglets contribute to increased front-end downforce, they also introduce additional drag compared to a cleaner fairing design.
The patent application reveals a redesigned shape that aims to strike a balance between reducing drag and maintaining downforce. The innovative design relocates the winglets closer together in the bike’s nose, utilizing a system of intakes and vents to direct air over internal surfaces within the nose.
Honda’s patent explains that by incorporating inverted wing shapes into the front cowl, downforce can be increased without the need for additional wings, ultimately reducing aerodynamic drag. The result is improved motion performance, including maximum speed and acceleration, leading to enhanced fuel consumption performance.
Key visible components of the new design include prominent intakes on each side of the screen near the handlebars and a secondary set of intakes lower down inside the concave section just below the nose’s leading edge. The internal bodywork’s shape, revealed in one drawing in the patent application, showcases an aggressively angled wing profile.
Apart from creating downforce and reducing frontal area, the design claims to offer additional aerodynamic benefits by directing airflow more efficiently over and around the rider. The patent suggests that the discharged air serves as an air curtain, reducing wind protection for the rider and minimizing the bike’s frontal size when viewed head-on, resulting in further drag reduction.
While the patent drawings feature the CBR1000RR-R SP, Honda emphasizes the adaptability of this design for various supersport-style bikes. By securing a patent for this innovative approach, Honda aims to prevent competitors from replicating the same advancements in their designs.
In 1992, Honda introduced the Fireblade, a legendary 1,000cc super sports motorcycle. Over the years, it has been the foundation for competitive race machines on various circuits and the Isle of Man TT.
In 2020, Honda revamped the Fireblade, giving rise to two new models, the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, developed with extensive input from Honda Racing Corporation (HRC) to enhance its racing pedigree.
The new Fireblade draws heavily from the engine and chassis technology of the RC213V-S, a street-legal MotoGP machine, and incorporates aerodynamics inspired by the RC213V MotoGP bike. It is engineered from the ground up to prioritize pure track performance, addressing aspects like engine, handling, and aerodynamics.
In 2022, the Fireblade celebrated its 30th anniversary with several upgrades to boost acceleration. Engine components like intake ports, airbox, airbox funnels, exhaust mid-section, and quickshifter performance were revised. Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) was fine-tuned for better rear tire traction management, and throttle response was improved.
And in 2024, the Fireblade SP underwent further development. It received engine and gearbox updates to enhance mid-range performance and throttle response. Riding position adjustments were made, and components from Brembo and Öhlins were incorporated to optimize track performance while maintaining an engaging road-riding experience.
The Fireblade SP’s inline four-cylinder semi-cam gear engine now produces 214hp of peak power and 113Nm of torque. The engine underwent significant changes to provide a different power delivery throughout the rev-range. Features like a 2-Motor Throttle By Wire system, increased compression ratio, adjusted intake ports, valve timing alterations, lightweight titanium conrods, and shorter gear ratios contribute to this transformation.
The exhaust system now features ovalized downpipes and a slightly larger titanium Akrapovič muffler, producing less noise. The electronic systems include Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), adjustable Start Mode, and a standard-fit quickshifter.
The chassis improvements include a revised aluminum frame with optimized rigidity balance, a third-generation Öhlins Smart Electronic Control (SE-C3.0) suspension, Brembo Stylema R brakes with Cornering ABS, and a redesigned riding position.
A six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) provides precise data for various electronic systems, including the Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD). The Öhlins suspension system offers refined settings through the Object Based Tuning interface (OBTi).
The aerodynamics package was redesigned to enhance high-speed agility and stability. The new fairing features winglets for downforce, aero steps for rear traction, and improved airflow management. A 5-inch color TFT screen and four-way switch provide intuitive control, and a Smart Key system adds convenience.
There is no better way to describe the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP than to state the obvious, it is a high-performance motorcycle designed for the track but suitable for road use. It boasts a potent engine, advanced electronics, and top-notch chassis components, making it a formidable machine for both racing enthusiasts and sportbike riders.
As for when it will be available in global markets, Q1 of 2024 sounds about right, but Malaysian buyers may have to wait longer than that.
A recall campaign for the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade has been issued in Europe.
The campaign seeks to fix potentially defective conrods.
The bike is slated to arrive in different markets.
While many are still awaiting to take delivery of the 2020 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade (besides being kept indoors by lockdowns in various countries), the manufacturer has issued a recall campaign in Europe.
The campaign affects some 300 bikes. Honda says that it’s a precautionary measure to fix what could be potential conrod (piston connecting rod) failure. The defect may be due to metallurgical defect.
The number makes up about 10% of the bikes allocated to the continent. Other countries are thus far unaffected. It leads us to believe that the conrod supplier made a bad batch.
In any case, we’ll keep you updated in case those of other markets are involved.
On another note, it’ll be interesting to see how this new CBR1000RR-R will do in the market, especially given its price. Such price point was last seen with other Honda World Superbike homologation specials such as the VFR750R RC30, RVF750 RC45, VTR1000SP RC51. All these bikes were either built entirely or in part by the maker’s racing arm – HRC (Honda Racing Corporation).
Lastly, a recall campaign issued by a manufacturer ought to be seen in positive light, despite being as sensational as it seems. It’s better for manufacturers to discover problems early and notify consumers as soon as they can.
Therefore, recall and service campaigns are a commonplace these days.
The 2019 Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade is designed to be the everyday superbike.
It’s easy to ride and live with on a daily basis.
It’s fast and far from being slow.
It may be that Honda has shown off the 2020 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade, but there’s still lots of significance to the 2019 Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade.
First and foremost, it’s the base model for the SP which we tested earlier. Of course, the SP was all spec’ed-out including Öhlins electronic suspension with OBTi user interface, Brembo monobloc calipers, Brembo brake discs, quickshifter and a single seat. The fuel tank was titanium, so was the exhaust system. The SP was cosmetically different, too, with gold wheels, polished aluminium frame spars and HRC tri-colour racing scheme.
On the other hand, this base model makes do with Showa Big Piston Forks and rear shock, Tokico monobloc front brake calipers, anodized black frame and wheels, dual seats. Electronics wise, it doesn’t have the OBTi suspension controls since the suspension is manual. Most tellingly, it doesn’t include a quickshifter.
Does that make the bike less “better”?
Ergonomics is exactly the same, as with the engine power and performance.
Firing it up exuded that soul-stirring deep vroom from the exhaust, telling you that it’s ready to ride. Setting the electronics was easy-peasy, given three preset modes and two user-customizable modes. From left to right, there’s P for power (1 highest, 5 lowest); T for traction control (1 the least intervention, 8 the most); W for wheelie control (1 for highest intervention, 3 for the least); EB for engine braking (1 the least, 3 the highest). That’s it. One look and you know how the bike will respond.
Each setting returns really perceptible changes. For example, the bike takes off as soon as the throttle was twisted in Level 1, whereas you need to turn the throttle more in Level 5. But if anything, engine braking (EB) showed the biggest change. In level 1, the bike almost freewheeled (great for attacking corners) while the bike slowed a lot off the throttle in level 3.
Although not electronic, the factory suspension settings were already in the ballpark. No, wait. They were superb. We found that we didn’t need to adjust anything at all. Only once did it get of shape as I had to brake hard when keeled way over in a corner, because a car cut into my lane. The forks dived hard, causing the bike to wobble. However, adding just two turns of compression and rebound damping solved the issue.
Compared to the electronic suspension, the biggest difference was that the manual suspension felt soft in its initial stroke but was stiffer when you hit larger bumps. It’s the true opposite for the electronic set up. Yet, the CBR1000RR’s suspension was the most compliant on the street as opposed to all other superbikes we’ve ridden.
The bike isn’t slow, not at all. It’ll own everything thrown against it because it’s so easy to ride on the street. While you need more effort on other bikes, the CBR took all steering efforts in its stride. Think it, turn in.
In corners, the softer suspension settings let the tyres bite into the road surface and hook up early just as you add balancing throttle. That confidence goads you into opening the gas sooner without the risk of pushing the bike wide. I found myself adding too little throttle many times during the initial two days of testing, but I was punching in plenty of throttle soon enough.
There’s a corner on MEX Highway which I’ve never ridden through faster than 160 km/h (on the KTM 1290 Super Duke GT). One day, I hammered the CBR through it to see how far I could lean the bike. I looked down and saw 188 km/h and the knee was still far away from the road!
But it isn’t all about aggression. Feel the need to cruise? Just raise your body, switch to MODE 3 and putt along in sixth gear. The bike happily obliged even when we rode it at 80 km/h in sixth. Not only it didn’t stutter but it pulled hard as soon as I opened the throttle. From there it would blow through 100 km/h, 150 km/h, 200 km/h and all the way.
That inline-Four has gobs of low-down and midrange torque unlike its contemporaries. It punched hard from the standing start and acceleration only slowed down a little (just a little) past 8,000 RPM. Hard acceleration was accompanied by a mix of warble and whoosh from the intake with a howling and roaring exhaust, as if it was a small V-Four. The stock exhaust was loud enough – all the better for such a distinctive tone that’s totally different from all other inline-Four superbikes.
But it wasn’t all about aggression.
It’s so easy to ride in any circumstance, including in heavy traffic. Whereas I found it difficult to maneuver other sportbikes in really slow traffic, I could cilok (swerve around) on the CBR1000RR like a Honda CB250R. I’m not kidding! Even U-turns were easy because there was plenty of steering lock. Carrying a passenger wasn’t much of a bother, either.
That’s the central theme to the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade. The CBR1000RR team wants to give the rider Total Control. Total control breeds confidence, and confidence turns to enjoyment. Total control also means that the bike is forgiving.
You’re always in control with those clip-ons positioned just right in relation to the seat. While other superbikes have their handlebars placed on the same level as the seat, the Fireblade’s are about 2.5 cm (1 inch) higher. In doing so, it gives the rider more leverage on the bars as well as better comfort, without sacrificing sportiness.
The more I rode the bike, the more I discovered that it’s Honda’s obsession with the little details. For example, like the previously mentioned abundance of steering lock and ergonomics. Going further, the design of the fuel tank made it easy to hook your upper arms and knees to it when you’re leaning into a corner. Apart from that, the seat height was at a comfortable level, yet the footrests didn’t touch down at all.
Honda also showed their obsession with quality and finish. Look down into the space between the TFT screen and handlebar and all you’d see is the clutch cable. No wayward cables and parts. Even the steering damper’s hidden away underneath the fuel tank’s cover.
Was there anything we didn’t like? Not really, but we know that detractors will bash the lack of a quickshifter. What? You’ve forgotten how to shift gears? Just joking. But trust us: You won’t miss it. The first two gears and downshifting may require the clutch lever but hooking up the next gears without the clutch was almost as good as using a quickshifter. It felt more rewarding too. The clutch pull was very light anyway, requiring on the middle finger to work it.
Another point excuse we always heard is the lack of top end power. The CBR1000RR has the lowest in the class at 189 hp. But unless you want to race the bike in MSBK or MSF, why does it bother you? What’s more important is the bike’s ability to accelerate faster from idle and while rolling compared to the others.
Let’s also not forget that the bike looks great from every angle.
Conclusion
It’s apparent that the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade was designed to do almost everything as a sportbike. By that we meant that you could ride it everyday while carrying a pillion, head into the mountains on weekends or convoy, and still be able to turn and burn at the track.
And it’s surprisingly cheap as well (in relation to other 1000cc sportbikes, not our bank accounts) from RM 91,999 making it a superb value for money. (The CBR1000RR Fireblade SP is priced from RM 114,999.)
So, if you can only own one 1000cc sportbike that you have to use for everything, this is the bike.
Honda’s CBR1000RR Fireblade has been criticized by race teams and enthusiasts for lack of power in the open-class.
Rumors are circulating that Honda is working on a V-4 engine for the new bike.
Will the new bike get more power or Honda will stick with less weight?
It’s perhaps the relentless march of the competition or the manufacturer’s philosophy, but whatever the cause, it’s odd to see that the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade being outclassed for a long time. Affectionately known as the “Rabbit” locally, it is still very popular among sport riders.
2017 Honda CBR1000RR
Ironic isn’t it? For it was its predecessor, the CBR900RR Fireblade which made its debut in 1992, which showed the way to build superbikes. It outsold every sportbike all the way until Yamaha introduced the YZF-R1 in 1998. Yes, more people actually bought the CBR900RR despite Ducati stomping the World Superbike competition with the 916 from 1994.
But now that the CBR1000RR is eligible for Superbike (production-based) racing, it’s getting trounced by its rivals such as the Kawasaki Ninja ZX-10R and BMW S 1000 RR.
Racing teams have complained about the Honda’s lack of power, top speed and front-end grip in high-speed corners. 187 bhp was awesome 5 years ago but it is now too large a gap. When the current Fireblade was reveled in 2016, project leader Masatoshi Sato said, “We could easily give the bike 200 bhp; we could give it 300 bhp if we wanted, but we think it’s the lack of weight people want to feel more.”
1992 Honda CBR900RR Fireblade
Ah, we see. It means the development team was adhering to the original CBR900RR concept of “light is right.” Indeed, the bike weighed 205 kg, just 2 kg heavier than Honda’s own CBR600F2 at the time. The next lightest 1000cc motorcycle (Yamaha FZR1000) was a whopping 34 kg heavier.
MCN has revealed that more power is on the cards for the new CBR1000RR which will be unveiled at EICMA later this year.
The rumour of a V-4 engine continues to circulate, although Honda is tight-lipped about it. It’s also speculated that the new bike’s aerodynamics may draw from lessons learned in MotoGP.
Till then, let’s keep our fingers crossed for the new “Rabbit.”
Beberapa keping gambar yang telah dimuatnaik ke laman sesawang Facebook oleh SuperBikers Malaysia mempamerkan beberapa buah Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade terbaru yang kini sudah tiba di tanah air kita.
Dalam pos berkenaan, jentera-jentera buas itu yang dibawa masuk oleh mereka yang bertanggungjawab di MSCPJ dan ianya tersedia untuk jualan bagi para pembeli dan juga penggemar Honda.
Motosikal Fireblade standard ini telah ditetapkan harganya pada RM144,054 sementara model SP1 pula dinilai pada RM169,494(harga asas beserta GST).
A bunch of photos posted on Facebook by SuperBikers Malaysia showed that the a few new Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade have already arrived here in Malaysia.
In the post, the bad boys were brought in by the folks from MSCPJ and they’re ready for sale to eager buyers and Honda enthusiasts.
The standard Fireblade is set at RM144,054 while the SP1 model is at RM169,494 (basic prices with GST).
Just hours ago, the Malaysian motorcycle community received quite a lovely surprise when folks started sharing about a particular Honda bike that has just reached our shores. In reference to the Facebook photos posted by SuperBikers Malaysia, it was stated that the new Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade (Standard and SP1 models) were imported in by MSCPJ and ready for purchase. Judging by the photos, the bad boys look magnificent fresh out the shipping crates. (more…)
Yesterday, the Honda World Superbike team officially unveiled their latest bikes with a brand new sponsor which happens to be the world’s biggest energy drink company, Red Bull. Present during the unveiling were Nicky Hayden and his new team mate, Stefan Bradl. (more…)
