2017 Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade shown at EICMA – new “entry-level” superbike, 189 hp driving 196 kg

After the unveiling of the 2017 Honda CBR1000RR SP and SP2 at the Intermot show in Cologne, Germany, last month, Honda has now shown its “basic” superbike, the 2017 Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade. The welcome return of the Fireblade moniker shows that Honda is indeed serious about wresting the superbike crown back from the likes of Kawasaki and Ducati, after letting the previous-generation CBR1000RR languish for almost six years.

Using the current iteration of the Honda’s famed one-litre inline-four, the 2017 Fireblade boasts of 189 hp driving 196 kg, numbers which are similar to the CBR1000RR SP and SP2. Missing is the Ohlins semi-active suspension from the track-oriented SP and SP2, and the Fireblade makes do with Showa’s Big Piston Fork (BPF) and Balance Free Rear Cushion (BFRC) shock absorber at the front and rear, with forged wheels, respectively.

Electronics abounds on the 2017 CBR1000RR Fireblade, as it does with its higher-end SP siblings. Nine-level traction control is standard, as is three rider modes, while a new cornering ABS unit makes an appearance along with wheelie and rear-wheel lift control. Tokico four-piston calipers are substituted for the Brembo units found on the SP and SP2, as well.

The Fireblade’s riding mode has three settings – Track, Winding and Street – which use different combinations of ride-by-wire throttle response, engine power and engine braking. All information comes through a full-colour TFT-LCD instrument panel that adjusts automatically to ambient light, and LED lighting is on display, front and rear.

Also standard fitment is the Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD), that automatically sets steering effort based on speed and rider preference. Now word on pricing or availability of the 2017 Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade as yet, and there is only one colour scheme currently on offer, red/black.

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