STYLING

The CB1000R has a compact and dynamic form with a distinctive ‘mass-forward’ orientation that projects a ‘ready to pounce’ image. Its frontal design is characterised by a compact bikini cowl surrounding a brilliant three-corner shaped multi-reflector headlight. Underneath, a distinctive LED position lamp gives it an unmistakable presence on the road. Behind the cowl a high-tech, fully digital meter panel provides three large LCD readouts of all operating information. The tachometer features an instant multi-segment readout of engine speed, displayed in a wide, sweeping bar that extends across the top of the display.

The short, slim seat and tail cowl take obvious design cues from the CBR1000RR Fireblade and the powerful RC212V MotoGP racer. The seat is roomy and tapers towards the front, integrating smoothly with the side covers for a compact profile and comfortable riding position. The sleek, upswept tail cowl, supported by a strong and rigid cast aluminium rail, provides room for a passenger and integrates an attention-getting LED tail-light.

The lightweight form is matched by sharply sculpted bodywork. Mechanical parts like its magnesium head and ACG covers and natural finish aluminium pivot plates create a high-tech look of purposeful performance, accentuated by the eye-catching array of nickel-plated bolts that surround the engine’s side covers. Stylish 17″ swept 4-spoke wheels place a strong accent on the CB1000R’s exciting performance potential.

Remarkably, the CB1000R looks and feels more like a compact mid-sized sportsbike than the full-bodied litre-class performer it really is. Its compact dimensions and easy reach to both the ground and its controls are outstanding in this class of Naked road machines. Its form locates the rider closer to the steering head for a riding position that shifts the CB1000R’s balance of weight slightly forward onto its front tyre, achieving a greater feeling of crisply responsive control.

ENGINE

The CB1000R features a compact 998cc liquid-cooled fuel-injected inline-four engine originally derived from the World Superbike Championship-winning 2007 CBR1000RR Fireblade. It is tuned to deliver sharp acceleration and full-bodied torque from the lower reaches of its rev range as well as breathtaking and smoothly linear power further up the powerband. Features such as an IACV (intake air control valve) keep excessive torque reaction and jerky low-speed performance to a minimum, ensuring smooth, enjoyable operation. The light-action hydraulic clutch takes full advantage of the engine’s strong low-end torque and can be engaged at engine speeds of less than 2,000rpm without fear of engine stalling. The combination of optimised power-to-weight ratio and a wide powerband means that the CB1000R is capable of dynamic and satisfying thrusts of acceleration from anywhere in its powerband.

Optimised mass centralisation is key to the CB1000R’s quick, neutral handling, and is greatly enhanced by a low-slung system that concentrates most of its weight directly under the engine. This results in significantly quicker response to steering inputs. The exhaust design also allows maximum cornering clearance It includes a built-in oxygen sensor and 300-cell catalyser element that combine with the engine’s advanced fuel injection system to ensure low emissions while maintaining strong and smooth performance.

CHASSIS

The CB1000R is built on a mono-backbone Gravity Die-Cast (GDC) aluminium frame that holds the engine as a stressed member in a rigid diamond configuration. Strong, rigid and lightweight, it adds to the motorcycle’s sharp, smooth handling and instant response to changes of direction.

The overall design places a strong emphasis on optimal mass centralisation. Heavier components, notably the engine, main frame sections and exhaust system, are positioned as close as possible to the machine’s rolling centre of mass while those sections located farther away from its centre are designed to be as lightweight as possible.

Like the CBR1000RR Fireblade, the CB1000R features a sturdy and responsive 43mm inverted HMAS cartridge-type front fork that delivers superbly responsive handling through tight corners. Providing 120mm of smoothly damped wheel travel, its fork tubes are also fully adjustable for preload, compression and rebound damping, allowing customised control over riding performance. At the rear, an adjustable mono-shock damper and single-sided cast aluminium pro-arm swing arm provide 128mm of smoothly damped travel for assured handling balanced with compliant comfort.

Super Sports-class wheels, tyres and brakes enhance the bike’s agile control and easy handling. The standard version combines a pair of radial-mount four-piston front calipers with a compact dual-piston caliper slowing a 256mm disc at the rear, creating smooth, responsive braking control. The CB1000R has Combined-ABS configuration that couples the balanced braking control of a Combined Brake System with the extra reassurance of an ABS.