Motorcycle specifications HondaCBR 1000 RR-R SP Fireblade 2023 A little more than speed

The CBR has set off on a performance assault with an exceptional burst of enthusiasm. After years of keeping up with the competition, it now has the means to inflict a beating on the hypersports world. The SP edition, equipped with Öhlins and Brembo, is even more striking.

And let's not forget the minor tweaks to the 2022 version, for improved mid-range efficiency. Improved intake, shortened transmission, more considerate torque control and increased compression ratio, in a bid to take the lead in the class.

Efficiency right down to the rim, whatever the price. Although the SP' s HRC color scheme is loud and clear on the standard version, it doesn't make its demands any louder. We'd have appreciated a specific paint scheme, more violent looks and a more distinctive look to mark the difference. But no, the two versions mimic each other perfectly. Only the gold legs announce an extra dose of pleasure and rigor. The 'black and gold' version stands out with an almost delicate elegance.

The quality of Sweden's suspension is well proven. At the front, the 43 mm NPX inverted fork has been lengthened since the previous SP. This gives greater freedom of geometry adjustment. Its pressurized cartridges limit cavitation, smooth control, better absorb high-speed shocks and improve tire feel.
The rear shock absorber is a TTX36, adjustable for preload, compression and rebound - just like the fork.
This second generation of semi-active suspension is managed by the OBTi interface, recalibrated for more precise adjustments. The rider can modify each setting from those set in the base of each configuration. Three Modes are available to respond to terrain or mood profiles, with the option of memorizing modifications.

Once you've unleashed its 217 horsepower, this hypersport is going to go into every curve like a fury. To calm things down, the SP is fitted with Brembo Stylema brake calipers. Top of the range, with each of the 4 pistons delighting in gnawing the 330 mm discs. The front and rear master cylinders are also Brembo.

like the RR-R, the CBR 1000 SP is now more affordable. It's also aimed at a more discerning, demanding public, ready to use all its weapons. First and foremost, its supercharged engine. It adopts technical solutions inspired by the RC213V and its road version, the RC213V-S. With more super-square internal dimensions, DLC treatment for certain components, optimized airflow, larger injection housings and a completely revised block design, Honda has set out to make it a Superbike terror.

The CBR has also reworked its frame and swingarm, installed winglets in the fairing's aerodynamic hybridization and pushed its electronic arsenal a little further. The CBR 1000 RR-R SP features three riding modes, 5-stage power adjustment, 3-stage engine braking, 3-stage anti-wheeling, 9-stage torque control (now with drift rate control), a standing start assistant, curve-active ABS with 2 modes, a 5-inch TFT display, a Smart Key keyless start system, a two-way shifter, full LED lighting and a steering damper managed by the IMU inertial unit.

Has Honda indulged itself with this CBR 1000 RR-R SP? No, Honda has transposed its rage into a fighting machine. Between it and the Panigale V4R, the race for power has been reignited in the category. The CBR enters the new decade with much more speed.

M.B - Manufacturer's photos