2023 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fire blade SP Sports Bike Review Specs

Honda’s legendary Fire Blade has progressed from its first launch in 1992 into a fantastic 1000cc sports motorbike. The new 2023 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fire blade SP Sports Bike is built from the ground up with engine, handling, and aerodynamics optimized for pure, outright track performance, drawing mainly on the technology of the RC213V-S “street-legal MotoGP machine” and the RC213V MotoGP bike.

2023 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fire blade SP Sports Bike – Features and Specs

Reduced Friction

Diamond-like Carbon (DLC) coatings have been applied to the cam lobes to reduce internal friction, making the engine more durable. It is the first time this method has been used for a motorbike in production at this scale. Water from the radiator is recirculated into the main water jacket of the cylinders through a bottom bypass, while water is used in the region below at room temperature. The result is less distortion and friction thanks to a more uniform temperature throughout the bores.

Semi-cam Gear Train

A semi-cam gear train powers the valve train. The chain is carefully driven from the timing gear on the crankshaft via the cam idle gear, minimizing its overall length and weight to achieve such high RPM/high cam lift performance.

Ram-air Induction

Using the Honda Smart Key System, a ram-air duct in the front fairing tip is fed through the headstock, around the steering stem, and into the air box. This system’s opening is on par with the RC213V MotoGPTM machine, and its design allows for high ram pressure to be maintained consistently throughout a broad speed range. To improve acceleration and drive in the mid-corner, the intake ports, air box, air box funnels, and exhaust mid-section were all redesigned for 2023.

Akrapovic Exhaust

The 4-2-1 downpipes’ optimized diameters and oval cross-section enhance the gas flow. A valve stopper prevents exhaust gas leaks when closed, decreasing noise, and the overall internal volume of the muffler is shrunk by 38% thanks to the collaboration between Akrapovic and the titanium exhaust muffler’s designers.

Throttle by Wire

Increased responsiveness from Throttle by Wire (TBW) has reduced lag in torque delivery in various part-throttle situations, such as the progressive opening as you leave a bend. Taking cues from the RC213V-S, this model places precise throttle control — with a natural feel — in the rider’s right hand for a more linear delivery.

Riding Modes

There are three predefined riding modes with customizable engine power and personality. Different modes allow for varying levels of capacity (P), engine braking (EB), wheelie control (W), and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). The Fire Blade SP has a unique “Start Mode” button at the beginning of races.

Wheelie Control

Wheelie control maintains torque and controls any front wheel lift without losing forward drive by using information received from the IMU on pitch angle and front and rear wheel speed sensors.

Honda Selectable Torque Control

There are nine HSTC settings, plus off; the driver may modify that. Improved HSTC makes grip management easier to understand and use, inspiring trust in riders.

Rider on start mode while riding on 2023 CRF1000R-R Fire blade SP Start Mode

The RR-R SP has a unique Start Mode at the beginning of races. It helps the rider concentrate only on the clutch release (and lights) by capping engine RPMs at predetermined levels (6,000, 7,000, 8,000, and 9,000). A quick shifter tuned for racing performance and durability is also included.

Aluminum Diamond Frame

The aluminum diamond-style frame has the upper shock mount at the back of the engine and the RC213V-S-inspired more giant swing arm. Stability, handling, and traction have all been enhanced by fine-tuning the stiffness balance, weight distribution, and steering geometry.

A Six-Axis IMU from Bosch

A three-dimensional riding dynamics estimate and control input are both provided by a six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). The (IMU) operates the cutting-edge Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD).

Honda Electronic Steering Damper

Included the Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) from Showa. Controlled by data from the wheel speed sensors and IMU, HESD is a lightweight through-rod design installed at the steering stem’s base and connects to the bottom yoke.

Öhlins Smart Electronically Controlled (Smart-EC) suspension

With its 43 mm Ohlins NPX forks and TTX36 shock, the RR-R SP has semi-active Ohlins Electronically Controlled suspension (Smart-EC). This suspension and the Ohlins Object-Based Tuning interface (OBTi) allow for more nuanced tuning.

Brembo Brakes

The Brembo master cylinder and brake lever activate the Brembo Stylema four-piston radial-mount brake calipers. The discs’ 330mm diameter and 5mm thickness allow effective heat dissipation. The Brembo caliper in the back is identical to the one on the RC213V-S.

Rear Lift Control

The rear lift control and ABS-managed braking force about the lean angle increase turn-in assurance. The technology has two settings that may be toggled on the fly: SPORT optimizes performance for road riding with increased braking force and less pitching, while TRACK maximizes efficiency while stopping from considerably greater circuit speeds.

Improved Aerodynamics

The radical fairing design of the RR-R SP wasn’t just for show; it was developed to achieve a class-leading drag coefficient and to limit lift during acceleration and braking. The fuel tank lid was lowered by 45 mm (compared to the previous design) to provide a more compact riding position, and an aerodynamic fairing, windscreen, and mudguard were also added.

Increased Downforce

The CBR1000RR-R Fire blade SP uses winglet structures to provide the same amount of downforce as the RC213V MotoGPTM bike at track speeds while maintaining the shortest feasible frontal area. Wheelies are reduced during acceleration, and stability is improved during braking and turn entrance.

Customizable TFT Display

The left-hand handlebar’s streamlined four-way switch controls the fully customizable, full-color, 5-inch TFT display.

Honda Smart Key System

The Honda Smart Key System allows the ignition and handlebar lock to function without needing a key. Everyday use has been improved, and the competition-style top yoke may now be used thanks to the clearance created by the ram air system.

LED lighting

The RR-R SP has powerful LEDs in both its front and rear lights.

2023 Honda CBR1000RR-R Fire blade SP Sports Bike – Technical Specifications

Engine & Drivetrain

Chassis and Suspension

Additional Information