When Honda released the 7th generation of the Fireblade at EICMA in 2019, the company was not tight-lipped about its intentions. The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP gained a 215-horsepower inline-four, a diamond aluminum chassis and MotoGP-inspired winglets. Unfortunately, Honda's latest Superbike has failed to live up to its WSBK Championship ambitions over the past two seasons.
With 2022 marking the 30th anniversary of the Fireblade, Honda engineers have gone back to the drawing board. The 2022 CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP retains the same 999 cc inline-four, the same lightweight frame and the same aerodynamic fairing, but Honda slightly modifies the platform to improve cornering stability and thus gain exit speed from curve. To achieve these goals, engineers adopted a 43-tooth rear sprocket, the compression ratio increased to 13,4:1, the intake tracts, airbox and the channel that feeds it were modified, as well as the middle part of the exhaust line.
The Fireblade still has 215 horsepower in 2022, but adjustments make that power more accessible in the low-mid rev range. Updated electronic controls such as Honda's Selectable Torque Control also improve lean stability.
There are also changes to the traction control calibration, developed based on advice from HRC riders, and the Throttle by Wire throttle control has been improved, which now has a softer spring in order to provide a smoother feel. specified to the pilot. Since its creation, the CBR1000RR-R has featured high-end electronics, supervised by a 6-axis IMU platform: HSTC (Honda Selectable Torque Control) traction control, Launch Control for successful starts, as well as the possibility of adjusting power parameters, engine braking and wheelie control.
The 30th Anniversary Edition of the 2022 Fireblade SP will feature all the same technical specifications as the standard model, but the Commemorative Edition will sport a sleek retro paint job. Reminiscent of the legendary livery of the 900 Honda CBR1992RR Fireblade, the 30th anniversary motorcycle features the iconic '90s graphics in a white/red/blue color combination that made the original so popular. The serial number of the example is engraved on the upper plate of the fork, but the production will not be in limited series.
On the fairings of both versions there are MotoGP-derived flaps, integrated on the sides to generate downforce, while the instrumentation consists of a very complete 5-inch TFT color screen.
The developments come just in time for Honda's new WSBK range and the Fireblade's 30th anniversary celebration.
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