HONDA CBR1000RR

"CBR1000" redirects here. For the 1987–1999 motorcycle also known as the "Hurricane", see Honda CBR1000F.

The CBR1000RR (also known as the Fireblade) is a 999 cc (61.0 cu in) liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder Honda sport bike that was introduced in 2004 to replace the CBR954RR.

The Honda CBR1000RR was developed by the same team that was behind the MotoGP series. Many of the new technologies introduced in the Honda CBR600RR, a direct descendant of the RC211V, were used in the new CBR1000RR such as a lengthy swingarm, Unit Pro-Link rear suspension, and Dual Stage Fuel Injection System (DSFI).

An all new CBR1000RR was introduced at the Paris International Motorcycle Show  on September 28, 2007 for the 2008 model year. The CBR1000RR is powered by an all new 999 cc (61.0 cu in) inline-four engine with a redline of 13,000 rpm. It features titanium valves and an enlarged bore with a corresponding reduced stroke. The engine has a completely new cylinder block, head configuration, and crankcase with lighter pistons. A new ECU  delivers two separate revised maps sending the fuel and air mixture to be squeezed tight by the 12.3:1 compression ratio. Ram air is fed to an enlarged air box through two revised front scoops located under the headlamps. Honda claims power output to be at least 178 hp (133 kW) beginning at 12,000 rpm.

Honda made a very focused effort to reduce and centralize overall weight. A lighter, narrower die cast frame was formed using a new technique which Honda claims allows for very thin wall construction and only four castings to be welded together. Almost every part of the new bike was reengineered to reduce weight including the sidestand, front brake hoses, brake rotors, battery, and wheels.

In order to improve stability under deceleration, a slipper clutch is now available with a unique center-cam-assist mechanism. The Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) has been revised this year as well. Another significant change is the exhaust system which is no longer a center-up underseat design. The CBR1000RR now features a side slung exhaust in order to increase mass centralization and compactness while mimicking a Moto GP style.

On September 5, 2008, Honda announced the 2009 model. The bike remained the same, in terms of engine, styling, and performance. The only new addition was the introduction of the optional factory fitted Combined ABS (C-ABS) system originally showcased on the CBR600RR Combined ABS prototype. In addition to the new color schemes offered on the 2009 model, Honda reintroduced a Repsol limited edition color scheme. The Repsol paint edition in the US originally was offered without C-ABS. European versions had C-ABS available.

On September 4, 2009, Honda announced the 2010 model. Honda increased the diameter of the flywheel for more inertia. This improved low-rpm torque and smoother running just off idle. The license plate assembly was redesigned for quicker removal when preparing the motorcycle for track use. The muffler cover was also redesigned for improved appearance. New color schemes were also offered.

The CBR1000RR has been used extensively in the international racing scene since its inception in 2004. Chris Vermeulen and the Dutch Ten Kate team placed the bike fourth in the standings in its debut year in the World Superbike class. The following year, the bike and team secured runner-up honours. In 2007, the Hannspree Ten Kate team was able to secure the first World Superbike Championship with the CBR1000RR with Briton James Toseland. Also, Ryuichi Kiyonari was able to win back to back titles in the British Superbike Championship in 2006-07 using the CBR1000RR with the HM Plant Honda team.

The CBR1000RR has also been used heavily in the road racing scene, most notably at the famous Macau Grand Prix. Since its debut in 2004, it has recorded 4 victories with Michael Rutter having taken back to back victories in 2004–2005 and Scottish motorcycle racer Stuart Easton achieving the same, in 2008–2009. Arguably, the most famous of all road races has been the annual Isle of Man TT races which the CBR has been used to continue Hondas success at the circuit. Since 2006, the HM Plant team and Padgetts UK Honda team utilising the CBR1000RR have achieved 8 victories at the event ranging from the Superbike, Superstock and the blue riband Senior TT races. 2009 was especially dominant year for the Fireblade, having achieved the top 5 positions in the Superbike TT final standings, as well as another CBR1000RR whitewash in the Superstock TT where they occupied the top 5 again. Steve Plater also won the blue riband Senior TT race to secure Honda the manufacturers crown, fittingly as it was Honda's 50th racing year at the event.