EICMA: Honda’s race-ready Fireblade, E-Clutch CBR500R FOUR and 2027 CBR600RR

Honda has introduced its most advanced Fireblade family in history, including the CBR1000RR-R HRC Works Edition, which has one goal in mind – to dominate production-based racetracks around the globe.

Any model with ‘HRC’ in the name – in this case the acronym for the mighty Honda Racing Corporation – equates with serious sporting intent, and the HRC Works Edition lives and breathes that philosophy as Honda sets out to again become a genuine contender in the FIM Superbike World Championship.

The HRC Works Edition takes most of its cues from the CBR1000RR-R SP, which is the only Fireblade currently sold in Australia.

The 2027 model SP has received extensive updates including a new frame and swingarm, more efficient aerodynamics, revised geometry, a new valvetrain, the addition of two-stage variable air funnels, and less carriage thanks to new wheels and a titanium fuel tank.

There’s also the latest iteration of the Öhlins Smart Electronic Control suspension, new Brembo Hypure brakes, multiple ride modes, a smart key, and a six-axis inertial measurement unit, which manages all electronic systems and the electronic steering damper.

Output of the short-stroke, inline four-cylinder semi-cam gear train engine is 160kW (214.6hp) and 114Nm.

The HRC Works Edition then adds an even greater track focus thanks to the single seat, carbon-fibre-reinforced parts, bespoke winglets, built-in geometry adjustment, Öhlins mechanical suspension and Brembo Hypure Sports front calipers.

Meanwhile, the CBR500R FOUR brings Honda’s four-cylinder heritage to a new engine configuration, managed by the flexible Honda E-Clutch system while the venerable CBR600RR has upgraded Fireblade braking, a larger 5-inch TFT display and a reprofiled front end with integrated spoiler. It produces 89kW (121hp).