Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP

The straightforward objective behind the development of the new Fireblade SP was to create the foundation for a more competitive race machine while retaining its capability as a road-going motorcycle. Improvements in corner entry, mid-corner speed and corner-exit acceleration were key targets, alongside overall weight reduction.

To achieve them, an all-new frame features a revised rigidity balance and steering geometry, placing more load on the front wheel while raising the engine's crank centre. A lighter swingarm now uses the lower portion of the engine as the mounting point for the rear shock absorber.

Distinctive to the Fireblade SP is its premium Öhlins suspension package. At the front, 43mm Öhlins Smart Electronic Control (SE-C3.0) NPX (SV) forks are paired with an Öhlins TTX36 (SV) rear shock, both equipped with spool-valve technology and controlled via the latest Öhlins Objective Based Tuning Interface (OBTi). A digital spring preload guide, accessed through the TFT display, further simplifies chassis setup.

Braking performance is enhanced by new Brembo Hypure four-piston front brake calipers operating on lighter front discs and controlled through a new Brembo master cylinder and brake lever assembly. Cornering ABS includes a dedicated RACE mode, allowing rear-wheel ABS intervention to be switched off for circuit use. New lightweight wheels and the adoption of a 520 drive chain contribute to lower unsprung mass and improved handling response.

A six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) provides precise 3D monitoring of machine attitude and riding dynamics, supplying data for management of the electronic control systems. It also controls the rod-type, three-level Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD).

Developed in conjunction with HRC, the new aerodynamic package has been optimised for speed and efficiency. The newly redesigned fairing generates the same level of downforce as the previous front winglet design without the use of wing elements, while improving aerodynamic efficiency and rider wind protection. New lower cowl aerodynamic sidepods contribute to cornering performance, while a revised front spoiler works with the fairing to maximise aerodynamic performance.

A new LED headlight incorporates Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and is paired with a compact new taillight, whilst the titanium fuel tank is now exposed, removing the plastic cover of previous models to save weight. Seat height has been increased to optimise the centre of gravity of the complete rider and bike package, improving on track performance.

The short-stroke, inline four-cylinder engine with semi-cam gear train produces 160kW at 14,000rpm and 114Nm of peak torque. New two-stage Variable Air Funnels maintain top-end performance while strengthening mid-range output, while the 2-Motor Throttle By Wire (TBW) system delivers precise control of both acceleration and engine braking.

Engine revisions include new cam timing, expanded cam timing adjustment capability and updates to the valve train. Newly machined piston crowns and combustion chambers raise compression ratio, while magnesium engine covers, aluminium fasteners and lighter crankcases contribute to reduced mass. The crankshaft centreline has also been raised, while revised mainshaft and countershaft spacing broadens transmission ratio possibilities*. First gear is now five per cent taller. As before, a lightweight titanium Akrapovič muffler is fitted as standard.

Three default riding modes provide a broad range of performance characteristics, with full adjustment of Power, Engine Brake, Wheelie Control and Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). All settings have been revised to suit the engine's updated performance character. System management is handled through a 5-inch TFT display operated via a four-way switch. The electronics package also includes adjustable Start Mode.

Honda's SMART Key system provides keyless operation of the ignition and steering lock, while Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) functionality improves visibility to following road users during heavy braking.

The 27YM CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP will be available in the following colour options:
- Ignition Red
- Mat Ballistic Black Metallic

Built as the foundation for a WorldSBK race machine, the 27YM CBR1000RR-R Fireblade HRC WE shares the frame, engine and aerodynamic upgrades of the Fireblade SP while introducing a range of competition-focused enhancements.

These include adjustable steering-head and swingarm-pivot geometry***, Öhlins mechanical race suspension and Brembo Hypure Sports front brake calipers. A single-seat configuration and CFRP dual-element wing structure, front mudguard and rear seat ducts as well as an optional HRC bottom-neutral shift mechanism further strengthen its circuit-focused specification.

The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade HRC WE will be exclusively available in:
- Ignition Red

Chassis
- New aluminium frame features revised rigidity balance and design for improved cornering performance and feel for grip
- New swingarm is lighter and optimised to the frame
- New steering geometry sharper, with more weight on the front wheel and higher centre of gravity; seat height also raised
- Öhlins 43mm S-EC3.0 (SV) NPX USD front forks and TTX36 S-EC3.0 (SV) rear shock
- New 520 chain reduces unsprung weight and inertial mass
- New lightweight wheels reduce unsprung weight and inertial mass
- New Brembo Hypure radial-mount four-piston calipers managed by Cornering ABS through 3 modes – STANDARD/ TRACK/ RACE

Showa 3-level Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD) controlled by IMU for stability management
Completely redesigned for 27YM, the new frame targets improvements in corner entry, mid-corner control and corner-exit acceleration. The aluminium diamond-style main frame is constructed using Honda's thin-wall Gravity Die Casting (GDC) process, which allows wall thicknesses as low as 2mm and precise control of the all-important balance between rigidity and flexibility.

Compared to the previous design, lateral stiffness is reduced by 20% improving cornering performance, grip feel and stability on both road and track. In addition to revisions of the frame itself, this work has involved changes to how the engine is held in the frame. The lower shock mounting point has moved from the frame to the rear of the engine and the engine hanger at the front of the cylinder block is now a bolt-on stay rather than a frame-integrated stiffening structure.

Cornering stability and outright speed has also been the driving force behind the changes in geometry for 27YM. Wheelbase is 5mm longer at 1,450mm, with revised caster angle and trail of 24°/ 101mm (previously 24.1°/ 101.9mm) for the SP, and 23.8°/ 99.8mm for the HRC-WE. Weight distribution has also shifted forward to 53.3% front and 46.7% rear (from 52.8%/47.2%), increasing front-end load.

Further changes aimed at shaving lap times through faster cornering include raising the crankshaft centreline by 5.2mm to 432.5mm, and seat height from 831.5mm to 843mm for the SP, 847mm for the HRC-WE - improving rider mobility and machine response during direction changes.

Focus has also been given to improving rear-tyre feedback and grip feel, in the form of a new, pressed aluminium swingarm which is 1.2mm shorter at 620.6mm. Its pivot shaft diameter is also reduced by 3mm to 17mm, with wall thickness and pivot width optimised to reduce lateral rigidity by 12% while maintaining torsional rigidity to match the new frame. A 200g weight reduction in the swingarm also contributes to lower unsprung mass and improved tyre contact, while the move from a 525 to a 520-drive chain saves a further 270g. The new Fireblade SP tips the scales at 201kg, and the Fireblade HRC Works Edition weighs just 200kg.

Distinctive to the Fireblade SP is its latest-generation Öhlins electronic suspension package. Up front, 43mm Öhlins S-EC3.0 (SV) NPX USD forks are clamped by exclusive forged aluminium top and bottom yokes and utilise Öhlins' latest Spool Valve technology. The design improves ride quality, chassis composure and front-tyre feedback throughout the suspension stroke while also providing greater scope for geometry adjustment.

At the rear, an Öhlins TTX36 S-EC3.0 (SV) shock absorber complements the front suspension. Working together, the system delivers highly responsive damping control across a broad range of riding and racing conditions.

Supporting the hardware is Öhlins Objective Based Tuning Interface (OBTi), which allows significantly greater adjustment of front and rear suspension settings. Both ends can be tuned independently from the baseline settings, with three rider-defined modes available for storage. This allows rapid adaptation for varying conditions, including weather, tyre wear and fuel load. A front and rear spring preload guide, accessed through the TFT display, also provides recommended preload settings based on rider weight.
Braking performance is enhanced by new Brembo Hypure four-piston radial-mount front brake calipers, operated by a new Brembo master cylinder and brake lever assembly. Replacing the previous Stylema calipers, they deliver consistent braking performance under the sustained high temperatures generated during circuit riding. The calipers operate on revised, lighter 330mm x 4.5mm front brake discs.

A Bosch six-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) provides precise measurement of pitch and roll, enabling accurate management of the motorcycle's electronic control systems. The Fireblade SP is also equipped with a lightweight, through-rod Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD), mounted below the steering stem and connected to the lower yoke. HESD operation is governed by inputs from the wheel-speed sensors and IMU, with three levels of adjustment available.

Rear Lift Control and Cornering ABS further support braking performance. STANDARD mode is optimised for road riding, providing strong braking performance with reduced pitching. TRACK mode is calibrated for braking from higher circuit speeds and does not suppress rear-wheel lift, while RACE mode disables rear-wheel ABS intervention.

The aluminium wheels adopt a new seven-spoke hollow design, manufactured using the same GDC process as the frame. Revised spoke profiles and thinner wall sections reduce weight by 190g at the front and 590g at the rear, lowering both unsprung mass and rotational inertia. Tyre sizes remain 120/70-ZR17 front and 200/55-ZR17 rear.

Aerodynamic Package & Equipment
- New fairing and front spoiler completely revised – led by MotoGP input – for improved aerodynamics/protection; generates the same downforce as previous design without use of winglets
- New LED headlight features Daytime Running Lights (DRL); lightweight new taillight
- New, exposed titanium fuel tank saves weight
- 5-inch colour TFT screen and four-way left-hand switch offer intuitive control of riding systems
SMART Key operation

Honda's engineers developed the new Fireblade SP aerodynamic package alongside HRC and the WorldSBK race programme, with every stage of development driven by measurable performance targets. The result is a fairing that combines improved aerodynamic efficiency, enhanced rider protection and race-proven high-speed stability in an entirely new package.

Completely redesigned for 27YM, the fairing delivers the same level of downforce as the previous model without the use of wing elements. At the same time, aerodynamic efficiency has been improved, reducing drag while increasing rider wind protection at high speed. The layered fairing mid-section, developed using feedback gained through MotoGP and WorldSBK competition, improves airflow management around the rider while enhancing stability.

A key element of the redesign is the integration of new lower cowl aerodynamic sidepods. Derived from aerodynamic concepts developed through MotoGP competition, the sidepods generate an aerodynamic effect during cornering that improves cornering performance at lean angle. Working in conjunction with the redesigned fairing and front spoiler, they contribute to stronger cornering performance while maintaining high levels of aerodynamic efficiency.

The increase in frontal area compared with the previous model was carefully managed to allow greater rider movement on the motorcycle while delivering the desired aerodynamic gains. Compared to the previous model, frontal area has been increased to improve rider accommodation during aggressive riding while careful management of bodywork shape minimises any impact on overall aerodynamic efficiency.

Development began with aerodynamic performance targets established through Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis. The design was then refined through repeated cycles of digital simulation, clay modelling and real-world testing to optimise both aerodynamic performance and rider ergonomics. Every surface of the final bodywork was shaped with measurable aerodynamic gain as the priority.

For the Fireblade HRC WE, aerodynamic performance is enhanced further through a number of exclusive Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) components. These include Carbon Fibre Front Winglets and Rear Ducts, developed to suppress front-wheel lift under acceleration while increasing downforce during cornering. The HRC WE also features a Carbon Fibre Aero Front Fender, which works in conjunction with the lower cowl sidepods to reduce aerodynamic drag while contributing to cornering performance.

A redesigned LED headlight incorporates Daytime Running Lights (DRL) and is designed as a single removable unit for racing applications. It is matched by a compact, lightweight LED taillight.

Advances in titanium forming and paint technology have allowed removal of the fuel tank's external plastic cover, reducing weight by 1.4kg while maintaining the 16.6-litre fuel capacity. The tank on the Fireblade SP is painted only with clear coat, to expose the brushed titanium to view.

Rider interaction is managed through a high-resolution, full-colour 5-inch TFT display. Fully customisable, it allows key information to be configured according to rider preference. A compact left-hand switch cluster incorporates a four-way controller, enabling intuitive adjustment of riding modes and display functions, while the CBR logo is displayed at start-up for the SP, whilst the HRC WE features a bespoke HRC logo during the start-up process.

To protect the engine during warm-up, maximum engine speed is initially limited to 8,000rpm. As coolant temperature approaches its operating range, the available rev limit increases to over 14,500rpm.
Honda's SMART Key system provides keyless operation of both the ignition and steering lock. It also allows the use of a competition-style top yoke while maximising available space for the ram-air intake system.

In support of Honda's goal of achieving zero environmental impact by 2050 through Carbon Neutrality, Resource Circulation and Clean Energy initiatives, the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP incorporates a range of sustainable materials, including Post-Industrial Recycled polypropylene and polyamide (PIR PP and PIR PA), Post-Consumer Recycled polypropylene (PCR PP) and DurabioTM in selected components.

Engine
- Short-stroke, inline four-cylinder semi-cam gear train engine produces 160kW @ 14,000rpm with peak torque of 114Nm
- New 2-stage Variable Air Funnels maintain top-end while boosting mid-range output
- 2-Motor Throttle By Wire (TBW) system delivers smooth control for both acceleration and engine braking
- New cam timing, cam sprocket adjustment options and updated valve train
- New machined piston crowns and combustion chambers deliver higher compression ratio
- New magnesium engine covers and aluminium bolts save just under 1.1kg weight, crankcases also lighter
- New main/counter shaft spacing opens transmission ratio options; first gear 5% taller
- Lightweight, compact Akrapovič muffler

The Fireblade SP's 1,000cc inline DOHC four-cylinder semi-cam gear engine remains one of the defining elements of the machine. For 27YM, peak output is maintained at 160kW at 14,000rpm, with maximum torque of 114Nm at 10,500rpm. Development has instead focused on strengthening mid-range performance, improving rideability and reducing overall engine mass to complement the capability of the new chassis.

A comprehensive weight-reduction programme contributes to this objective. The crankcases have been lightened, while magnesium now replaces aluminium for the cylinder head cover, the right crankcase cover, the clutch cover, the ACG cover, and the oil pan. Thirty-five aluminium fasteners replace previous steel items, saving a further 215g. Collectively, these measures reduce engine mass by 1,099g, excluding the reduction achieved through the lighter crankcases.

Bore and stroke dimensions remain unchanged at 81mm × 48.5mm, preserving the engine's highly oversquare layout. Compression ratio increases from 13.6:1 to 13.8:1 through more precise manufacturing processes. Both piston crowns and combustion chambers are now machined to tighter tolerances, contributing to improved combustion efficiency and stronger mid-range output.

The semi-cam gear train valve system remains a key element of the Fireblade SP's high-rpm capability. Inlet valves measure 32.5mm, with 28.5mm exhaust valves operated by finger-follower rocker arms. A compact 9° intake valve angle reduces combustion chamber surface area and improves combustion efficiency. Camshaft drive is transmitted from the crankshaft timing gear through an intermediate cam-idler gear, allowing a shorter cam chain and supporting high-rpm durability.

For 27YM, cam timing has been revised and an all-new cam sprocket design increases the available range of valve timing adjustment**. The valve train, including the valve springs, has also been upgraded to enhance durability under sustained high-performance operation.

Forged TI-64A titanium connecting rods and rod caps reduce weight by 50% compared to equivalent chromium-molybdenum steel components. They are secured by HB149 chromium-molybdenum-vanadium steel bolts without the use of fastening nuts. As with the RC213V-S, DLC coating is applied to the big-end bearing surfaces, while the small-end bushes are manufactured from shaved C1720-HT beryllium copper to ensure reliability at high engine speeds.

To reduce cylinder bore distortion and minimise friction, the engine employs a built-in bottom-bypass cooling system. Coolant circulates through the primary water jacket while the lower cylinder areas remain uncooled, creating a more consistent temperature distribution throughout the bores and improving mechanical efficiency.

Additional measures support durability at sustained high engine speeds. The piston skirts utilise an Ober coating containing Teflon and molybdenum, while the piston-pin clip grooves receive nickel-phosphorous plating. Multi-point piston oil jets direct cooling oil onto the pistons throughout the operating cycle. At lower engine speeds, integrated check balls restrict oil flow when cooling demand is reduced, lowering oil-pressure losses and reducing friction. For 27YM, the design of the internal oil strainer has also been revised to minimise oil aeration.

Air is supplied via a ram-air intake positioned in the high-pressure area at the front of the fairing. Pressurised air passes directly through the headstock and around the steering stem before entering the airbox, helping maintain performance across a wide speed range.

New for 27YM is a 2-stage Variable Air Funnel system, the first application of the technology on a Honda mass-production motorcycle. Below 11,750rpm the funnels operate in their longer position to optimise intake efficiency and strengthen mid-range performance. Above 11,750rpm they transition to a shorter configuration, promoting high-velocity airflow and maintaining peak power at high engine speeds.

The 2-Motor Throttle By Wire (TBW) system continues to employ separate actuator motors for cylinders one and two, and cylinders three and four. At smaller throttle openings, the first pair of throttle valves opens independently to provide finer control of torque delivery and improve low- and mid-range manageability. As engine speed rises, all four throttles operate together to deliver maximum performance. Throttle body diameter remains 52mm.

The system also delivers enhanced engine-braking control. During deceleration with the throttle fully closed, cylinders three and four are managed independently to increase pumping losses and strengthen engine braking, while cylinders one and two remain closed to allow a smoother transition back to acceleration.

To minimise engine width, the starter motor acts through the clutch main shaft rather than directly through the crankshaft. This arrangement allows a more compact crankshaft design, while shared use of the primary driven gear helps reduce packaging requirements. As part of the chassis structure, the rear of the engine also serves as the upper mounting point for the rear suspension system.

For 27YM, the distance between the mainshaft and countershaft increases by 3mm to 68mm. The additional spacing expands available transmission ratio options, allowing gearing to be optimised for a wider range of racing applications. First gear is also five per cent taller, improving launch characteristics and broadening setup flexibility for different circuit layouts.

The four exhaust downpipes utilise an oval cross-section design and are matched to a lightweight titanium Akrapovič muffler. Its compact dimensions support mass centralisation while also maximising available right-hand lean angle.

Engine Electronics
- Six-axis IMU underpins the entire electronics package
- 9-level Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) optimised for new power output character
- 3 default riding modes plus options to customise Power, Engine Brake, HSTC and Wheelie Control parameters
- 4-level Start Mode standard fitment

The Fireblade SP's electronic control package combines Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC), 2-Motor Throttle By Wire (TBW) and six-axis IMU technology to deliver precise management of engine performance and rear tyre grip. Developed using extensive global feedback, including input from HRC riders, the system has been recalibrated for 27YM to match the engine's revised output characteristics and the capability of the new chassis.

Three default riding modes provide a range of performance settings, with the rider able to further tailor system intervention and engine response to suit conditions and preference. All parameters have been revised for 27YM.

Power (P) offers five levels of adjustment, with Level 1 delivering maximum engine performance. Engine Brake (EB) provides three levels of adjustment, with Level 1 delivering the strongest engine-braking effect through the 2-Motor TBW system. Wheelie Control (W) offers three levels of intervention, plus Off, with Level 1 allowing the greatest degree of front-wheel lift before intervention.

Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC) operates across nine levels and works in conjunction with the 2-Motor TBW system to provide smooth, intuitive management of rear-wheel traction. By continuously monitoring machine attitude and wheel-speed information, the system maintains drive while delivering predictable intervention when available grip changes.

Wheelie Control uses data supplied by the six-axis IMU, together with front and rear wheel-speed sensors, to manage front-wheel lift while maintaining acceleration performance. The system is designed to preserve forward drive rather than simply suppress wheelies, ensuring efficient use of available grip.
The Fireblade SP is also equipped with Start Mode for race starts. Four engine speed limits, 6,000, 7,000, 8,000 and 9,000rpm, can be selected, allowing the rider to hold the throttle fully open while concentrating solely on clutch release and launch execution.

HRC Works Edition
- Adjustable steering stem collar & adjustable swingarm pivot collar
- Öhlins mechanical suspension
- Brembo Hypure Sports four-piston front calipers
- Bottom neutral shifting structure available via optional HRC Kit parts
- Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) winglet, rear ducts and front mudguard; single seat unit
- Available in HRC WE Ignition Red

The CBR1000RR-R Fireblade HRC WE is a dedicated race-focused derivative, developed as the foundation for competition at the highest level. While it incorporates the same engine and chassis developments introduced for 27YM, its specification prioritises circuit performance above all else, employing specialised materials, manufacturing techniques and adjustability beyond what is practical for a mass-production road motorcycle.

A key element of this approach is increased chassis setup flexibility. Rake can be adjusted using upper and lower steering stem collars, allowing steering characteristics to be tailored to circuit layout, tyre selection and rider preference. The swingarm pivot position is also adjustable, enabling fine tuning of anti-squat and anti-lift characteristics during acceleration and deceleration.

Suspension is provided by fully mechanical Öhlins race-developed components comprising NPX28-30 USD front forks and a TTX36 rear shock. Braking performance is enhanced by Brembo Hypure Sports four-piston radial-mount front calipers, which save 32g compared to the previous Stylema design while delivering increased braking performance and consistency under race conditions. Wet weight is 201kg for the SP, and 200kg for the HRC-WE.

The HRC-WE’s competition focus can be furthered via the addition of optional HRC race components, which include a bottom-neutral shift pattern designed to eliminate the possibility of accidentally selecting neutral between first and second gear under race conditions. Neutral can only be engaged when the inhibitor lock is released.

Aerodynamic performance has been developed with equal focus. The Fireblade HRC WE adopts a range of exclusive Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer (CFRP) components designed through Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD), wind tunnel evaluation and circuit testing.

At the front, CFRP dual-element winglets generate significantly higher aerodynamic load than the previous design. The upper wing surface area is 2.4 times larger than before, while optimisation of wing angle, area and placement improves front-end stability during acceleration and corner exit. At 299km/h, the winglets generate 3.5 times more downforce than the standard 27YM CBR1000RR-R Fireblade.

The aerodynamic package works as a complete system. CFRP rear seat ducts contribute to overall aerodynamic efficiency, while the CFRP front mudguard has been specifically shaped to maximise the effectiveness of the Lower Cowl Aerodynamic Sidepods. Working together, these components improve aerodynamic stability, reduce drag and enhance cornering performance.

A single-seat configuration is fitted as standard, with pillion footpegs and hangers removed to reinforce the motorcycle's competition-focused intent.

Accessories
A full range of Genuine Honda Accessories are available for the 27YM CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP and HRC Work Edition type, which allows owners to tailor the Fireblade’s performance, protection, convenience and appearance.

Functional upgrades include a smoked windscreen, USB Type-C socket and attachment kit, frame guards, centre and side tank pads, a sport main seat* and an indoor body cover.
Styling options comprise colour-matching seat cowls in Ignition Red for the HRC Work Edition and for the SP type it’s also available in Matte Ballistic Black Metallic, wheel stripes in grey or red, plus mirror-hole and number-plate-hole covers for a clean, purposeful finish.

For even further personalisation, customers can also choose a sprocket protector and oil filler cap.