EICMA: Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade

As expected, Honda has added a standard model to its new Fireblade line-up, with the CBR1000RR joining the previously seen SP and SP2 versions for 2017.

The surprise, however, is the so-called base-level model is much higher equipped than many expected with the standard version retaining more than a few of the features of its higher-spec siblings.

The titanium fuel tank stays, as does the magnesium engine casings and lightweight five-spoke wheels. The ‘base-level’ electronics package includes a five-axis Inertial Measurement Unit controlling the nine-level traction control system and which also gives the bike the ability to handle the optional cornering ABS system.

Peak power is stated at 189hp, kerb weight at 196kg with a seat height of 832mm. There are three riding modes: Track, Winding and Street, while the full-colour TFT liquid crystal dash gets three selectable modes of its own: Street, Circuit and Mechanic. The traction, power delivery and engine braking input are all adjustable outside the three pre-selected modes, too.

It boasts the same 15kg weight saving as the two higher-spec variants unveiled in Cologne, too, in fact the only significant differences are in the suspension and braking packages. Where the higher-spec versions featured an Öhlins and Brembo pairing, the standard Blade employs a Showa affair using a 43mm BPF (Big Piston Fork) fork and a BFRC (Balance Free Rear Cushion) shock.

Similarly, radial-mounted Tokico calipers do the job on the standard bike as the top-shelf Brembos looked after on the homologation special SP2.

It appears the 2017 CBR1000RR will be available in two colours, a red/black option as well as a matte black option with red highlights.