The Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade unveiled today is a huge leap for Honda, placing the Fireblade at the front of the Superbikes with 217.6 kW, edge assemblies and leading electronics in its category.

On the eve of the EICMA 2019 opening, Honda unveiled the new 2020 Fireblade, which breaks Honda’s conventions and presents crazy data: 217.6 bhp at 14,500 rpm and 11.5 kW at 12,500 rpm – from a 4-cylinder engine.

The engine is brand new and around it there’s a new, more efficient, cooling system. The exhaust system is by Akrapovich, which of course complies with Euro 5 regulations and includes a catalytic converter.

The chassis is based on that of the outgoing model but with some changes. The Suspension System includes a fully adjustable BPF (43mm Big Piston Fork) inverted fork offering a 120mm move, and a rear shock absorber, also fully adjustable. The SP version of the new Fireblade comes with the Ohlins Semi-Active Electronic Suspension System, which includes a TTX36 rear absorber and NPX front suspension.

The electronics systems include advanced features such as surge control, ABS tilting (including sport mode and race mode), advanced grip control (including rear tire slip control or drift control), and of course Engine and Motorcycle Management Modes. There are of course Quickshifter, LED peripherals, a 5″ colour TFT screen, and a proximity key.

The design is also brand new and radical, with improved ergonomics and aerodynamics. The fuel tank is 45 mm lower, plastic intake ducts are designed to cool the engine and rear tire, and Honda claims the lowest drag factor in the category – only 0.270. The wet weight is 201 kg and can be reduced to 195 kg with a track-ready exhaust kit.

So it seems that Honda has taken off the gloves and is trying to bring back its glory. They are ready to storm the Superbikes category with all their might, and with all their knowledge and technology. How will this manifest itself? We will find out soon. 

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