Retro meets future with the new Honda CB1000R
The 2017 EICMA show marks the birth of a redesigned and restyled Honda CB1000R. For 2018, the CB1000R will take a new direction in terms of aesthetics and gets a host of performance upgrades to compliment the new look.
Honda’s flagship naked model uses the same 998cc DOHC four-cylinder engine as the CBR1000RR, but now comes employed with forged pistons instead of casted units. Larger valves (8.5mm intake and 8.1mm exhaust) with a higher valve lift, larger-diameter inlet ports, and a new combustion-chamber shape helps improve fuel flow and torque at midrange rpm, which is claimed to make it a livelier riding experience. Honda also added Throttle By Wire to the CB1000R, allowing four riding modes to be added (Standard, Sport, Rain, and User) as well Honda Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). Finally, the new 4-2-1 exhaust is also claimed to boost torque above 5,000 rpm and save 10 pounds to the weight of the motorcycle.
The chassis department had its hands on the CB1000R as well, giving it a new a new, 5.5 pounds lighter mono-backbone steel frame that is complemented by a Showa Separate Function Big Piston front fork (SFF-BP), which is said to reduce weight and improve damping performance. The rear tire grows in size to a 190/55 ZR17 from a 180/55 ZR17.
A new, round headlight marks the redesign, as does the burnished-aluminum radiator shroud and airbox cover. Machined aluminum pieces for the engine cases, cylinder head, and sprocket hub add to the look. The handlebars are now 12mm wider and 13mm higher, which will complement the 5mm taller seat height nicely. Finally, the CB1000R gets a full LED lighting system for 2018.
In all honesty, the CB1000R looks like it will be a lot of fun in 2018. The updates it receives might just be the next step towards fighting with the naked bike heroes like the Yamaha FZ-10 and Aprilia Tuono V4 RR.
It is said to be making its way stateside in the summer of 2018, but stay tuned for an upcoming ride review. Michael Gilbert
