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.
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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, on the other hand, 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.
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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.
