Honda CB1000R

CB1000R is a radically designed street-fighter primarily made to be a success in the European market. Various structural elements have taken inspiration from the Fireblade like the short and sharp tail section and small exhaust system. The front headlight is compact and aggressively designed with a bright, round, LED lamp at the bottom of it. The fuel tank is accompanied by large tank extensions. However, one of the most eye-catching components is the single-sided swing-arm and 4-spoke alloy wheels. Instrument panel is fully digital giving all sorts of information to the rider. The overall build quality and fit-n-finish of parts is quite remarkable.

CB1000R is a street-fighter which means an aggressive riding stance but unlike a full-faired Superbike, the rider sits almost upright holding an almost flat and wide handlebar. The foot-pegs are rear-set as well putting the rider in a spirited riding position. The fuel tank is ergonomically designed as well to allow the rider to hold it with knees. Handlebar switches are well within reach keeping the rider’s hands away from any unnecessary movement. Suspension at both ends is adjustable for preload, rebound and compression giving a variety of choice to the rider to set as per his preference.

CB1000R’s engine is derived from the 2007 Fireblade and tuned more for low and midrange power and torque delivery rather than the top end. That does not mean that it is any slouch in higher revs, but of course, it is nowhere comparable to a typical Superbike. The inline 4, 998cc, DOHC, liquid cooled, 16 valves engine produces 123.3 BHP of power at 10,000 RPM and 99 NM of torque 7,750 RPM. PGM-FI ensures faultless fueling and trouble free starts in all conditions. But things don’t end here – magnesium engine head saves more weight – and that contributes to the performance.

CB1000R’s 6-speed manual transmission is one of the best in business. The shift mechanism is positive and gives proper feedback of gear changes. The hydraulically actuated clutch has a nice feel as well, is light and contributes to the rock solid gearbox.

Brakes are fantastic. Sporting 310mm dual disc setup with radially mounted 4-piston callipers up front and a single 256mm single at the back with 2-piston callipers enables the CB1000R to slow and stop in a reassuring manner. The brake setup is also gets sintered brake pads at both ends and Combined ABS which distributes braking force to both tyres when only one is applied while also preventing wheel lockup. As always, tubeless tyres are industry standard among most motorcycles that guarantee safety under punctures as they do not deflate instantly.

The company claimed fuel efficiency is 17 kilometres per litre, so, expect close to 15 in real riding. Performance motorcycles are not meant to deliver high fuel economy, but anything above 15 kmpl is just great.