The Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade has received a major
overhaul, both visually and mechanically, for MY2020. The all-new 2020 model
gets an extra R in the name, refreshed styling and a new motor that pumps out a
commendable 214.5 hp of maximum power.
The litre-class supersport is available in two
variants – the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP. Honda says
that the 2020 iteration of the CBR1000RR draws inspiration from the RC213V MotoGP
motorcycle and its street-legal version, the RC213V-S. However, unlike the
MotoGP machine and its street-legal variant, the 2020 CBR1000RR-R Fireblade
uses an inline four-cylinder engine. Honda states that it’s the most powerful
inline four-cylinder motor it has ever made.
While the 2020 CBR1000RR-R misses the V4 layout, it
features the same bore (81 mm) and stroke (48.5 mm) as the RC213V-S (street
model). Its predecessor used a 76 mm bore and a 55.1 mm stroke. The 999.9 cc
inline four-cylinder, liquid-cooled, 16-valve, DOHC motor makes a maximum power
of 160 kW or 214.5 hp at 14,500 rpm and a peak torque of 113 Nm at 12,500 rpm.
The wet weight of the motorcycle stands at a respectable 201 kg, which gives it
a healthy power-to-weight ratio.
The SP variant brings added features to the
litre-class motorcycle such as 43mm NPX front forks and Öhlins TTX36 Smart-EC
rear shock that works with second-generation semi-active Öhlins Electronic
Control. The SP version also uses a premium braking setup that comprises new
Brembo Stylema four-piston radial-mounted callipers at the front. The rear
wheel uses the same Brembo calliper that is used on the RC213V-S. The SP
version also benefits from a quick shifter as standard.
The standard model uses 43mm
Showa Big Piston Fork (BPF) at the front and a Showa Balance Free Rear Cushion
Light (BFRC-L). The base variant also uses Nissin-sourced calliper at the front
while the rear features a Brembo calliper.
A new Bosch six-axis IMU replaces the five-axis unit
on the previous model. Showa’s new 3-level Honda Electronic Steering Damper
comes as standard on both motorcycles. The electronic aids include Throttle by
Wire (TBW) with three riding modes (adjustable Power, Engine Braking and
Wheelie Control), Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) and Start Mode (Launch
Control). The cockpit comprises a fully customisable 5-inch TFT display.
Similar to what Ducati has done with its 2020
Panigale V4 range, the new Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and CBR1000RR-R Fireblade
SP benefit from the aerodynamic package that is inspired by RC-213C MotoGP
machine. The winglets aim to offer more downforce and better stability.
Both, the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and CBR1000RR-R
Fireblade SP are equipped with a lightweight titanium Akrapovic exhaust end
can. Both variants will be available in two colours: a Matte Pearl Black and
HRC-inspired Grand Prix Red. Expect the all-new Fireblade models to be launched
in India in 2020.
