Motorcycle specifications HondaCBR 1000 RR Fireblade SP2 2018 Visa for SBK

while the CBR 1000 RR SP represents the most significant technological evolution of this sportbike in the last 10 years, a more accomplished version is fantasizing about world competition. Enthralled by the fumes of HRC, an even more sophisticated CBR completes Honda's offering: the SP2.
Not forgetting that this is above all the homologation model for Superbike racing, let's get carried away: 500 units will be available, and just as many reasons to go and smoke ZX-10RR, GSX-R 1000 R, Aprilia RSV4 RF, Ducati 1199 R or Yamaha R1-M. Since the SP, Honda has pushed the envelope a little further, and between its aluminum walls we can make out memories of the VTR SP-2 and hints of the RC45. If you're a fan of the winged brand, you've come to the right place.

the decoration is beautiful but... almost identical to that of the SP. Not even a little exuberance, a specific dress, or a replica?! Honda could have done with something more original to mark the occasion. However, on closer inspection, certain elements underline the SP2's more exceptional side. The golden graphics under the CBR Fireblade logo, the carbon texture drowned in a more electric blue, and the different-spoke rims concentrate most of the visual specificities.

as with the ZX-10RR, the real added value of this special series lies in the technical aspects. Don't think that the wheel spokes have changed shape just for fun. These Marchesini forged-aluminum wheels reduce inertia by 18% and 19% respectively, making the SP2 even more lively.
But the main interest lies in the engine. With 192 hp, there's plenty of power to go around on the road. For competition, it's not nearly enough. So, this CBR receives a number of modifications to enable it to be put through its paces. Without changing its internal dimensions, the 4-cylinder block benefits from larger valves, 31.5 mm (+1 mm) on the intake and 25.5 mm (+ 2.5 mm) on the exhaust. What's more, they feature an included ADM/ECH angle of 10/12° (vs. 11°/11°). This won't mean much to you, but for an engine builder, it's clearly of interest when it comes to churning out power at high revs.
Under the cylinder head, we're also preparing for more watts. Drawing on the experience of HRC and the RCV 213, engineers have optimized the combustion chambers, modified the pistons, fitted longer spark plugs and improved cooling.
Go back to the top of the block, remove the head cover and look at the tappets: wider, lower, thinner and lighter, they're just waiting to be fitted with meaner camshafts.

the SP2 incorporates all the SP's electronics, with a few minor adaptations. Specific settings, a pitlane speed limiter, Launch Control stop-start assistance, and 5 driving modes instead of 3.
Like all competitors, the SP also features a host of electronic modules borrowed from Star Wars: electronic throttle, 5-axis IMU inertial measurement unit, traction control, adaptive cornering ABS, 3-mode color digital instrument cluster, Öhlins semi-active S-EC suspension, wheeling control, up&down shifter .. phew!!!
And let's not forget the purely mechanical goodies, such as Brembo monobloc brake calipers, titanium fuel tank, beefy aluminum swingarm and perimeter frame, and Pirelli Supercorsa tires ready to scotch (a little) the road and (a lot) the track.

the SP2 is ready to receive upgraded kits to enable it to compete at the highest level, and features selected parts (Öhlins, Marchesini, Brembo), while retaining components unworthy of such a high level. Conventional rubber hoses hooked up to M4-30/32 calipers are a total waste of efficiency. For this level of performance, braided hoses should be mandatory. No adjustable clutch lever ... and since we've got top Brembo at the bottom of the fork, why not complete the package as it should be with a master cylinder of the same calibre?!

oh yes, I was talking about kits. To go for seconds, you can choose between Sport Race and Full Race. Two ways of optimizing the CBR 1000 RR SP2, and many more trajectories to carve out with a scalpel. Honda is out for revenge. The tool is here!

M.B - Manufacturer's photos