First Look: 2017 Honda CBR1000RR SP & SP2
Honda CBR1000RR has remained a gold standard for the superbike segment for decades. However, for the past couple of years competition raised the bar even further, which meant that Honda had to catch up to it. Finally, the long-awaited 2017 CBR1000RR made its debut at the Intermot 2016 trade show. The CBR1000RR aka the Fireblade now looks sharper than ever and comes with two versions- CBR1000RR SP and CBR1000RR SP2.
The 2017 Fireblade is 15kg lighter and 12PS more powerful that the outgoing model, Resulting in 14 percent improved power-to-weight ratio. What’s interesting is that Honda managed to do that in spite of making the bike Euro-IV compliant. The stringency in emission norms generally requires a complex and heavier exhaust system. The Japanese manufacturer shaved off the weight by using magnesium engine covers, and titanium muffler and fuel tank. The 600 grams lighter frame now has improved material mass distribution and thinner sidewall. Even the subframe and swingarm got the same treatment to further reduce 300 grams. Now, you can understand how difficult it would have been to make the bike 15kg lighter.
The power output of the Inline-four cylinder engine now stands at 190PS of max power at 12,500rpm and 111Nm of torque at 10,500rpm.
Contrasting to the outgoing model that didn’t have any electronic rider aids apart from ABS, the updated CBR1000RR SP is loaded with electronic assists that are derived from the RC213V-S MotoGP bike. It includes electronically adjustable Ohlins suspension, three-level quickshifter that works on both upshifts and downshifts, rear wheel lift control, 6-axis IMU, slide control, 9-level traction control, three-level engine braking, and ABS off course.
Why the SP2 version? Honda is also very serious about its WSBK standing, and the CBR1000RR SP2 was specifically meant for superbike racing homologation. Only 500 units of the CBR1000RR SP2 will be built worldwide in the next two years. The SP2 version will feature different cylinder head with 1mm larger intake valves and 1.5mm larger exhaust valves. Moreover, the SP2 will ride on lighter aluminum Marchesini wheels.
The new CBR1000RR is expected to arrive in India by mid-2017 by CBU route. The pricing for the new Fireblade is still a secret but company hinted that it will be under $20,000 for the American market. If we were to guess, then the Honda CBR1000RR SP should cost between Rs 22 lakh to Rs 25 lakh for the Indian market. That said, the manufacturer is likely to unveil the standard CBR1000RR later, that will be priced more competitively.
Watch the official video-
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