2009 HONDA CBR1000RR

ABS


When it was introduced in 2008, the brand-new Honda CBR1000RR, known as Fireblade across the pond, won accolades from the the press and regular riders alike. Considering its market domination over the last year, we wouldn't be surprised if Honda simply left things pretty much alone for '09. There is one new feature, though, and it's a biggie: optional ABS brakes. This will be the first application of anti-lock brakes in a machine of this caliber, and early reports indicate that people are seeing improved lap times as a result. In addition to the brakes, expect to see some color changes and a Repsol race edition.


The 2008 CBR1000RR Fireblade has astonished the media and public alike since its unveiling and launch last year. During 2008 it has won national and international races and magazine awards for its unique mix of power, performance, poise and controllability – qualities the Fireblade has been famous for since it was first launched back in 1992.

For 2009, Honda's engineers were charged with extending the Fireblade's capabilities even further by adding increased safety to an already impressive level of dynamic ability and control – but without losing the Fireblade's razor-sharp edge. Honda has achieved this goal thanks to the addition of its all-new electronically-controlled 'Combined ABS' on the CBR1000R Fireblade C-ABS version. Developing a Combined ABS system capable of matching the performance demands of a bike such as the Fireblade was always going to pose a challenge, but it has been met and exceeded with no loss to the Fireblade's ultimate sporting philosophy and, with a minimal weight penalty.

This marks the first time a Supersport machine has been capable of delivering the highest levels of speed and performance, while also benefiting from the confidence and peace of mind provided by Combined ABS. Tadao Baba – the designer of the original Fireblade used to strive for 'Total Control' for the CBR-RR. This now comes with the enhanced safety feature of Combined ABS, adding up to a new era in sportsbiking.

The compact engine now sports an intense matt black colour, enhanced with a new shape-hugging black engine cover, and features new black brake callipers (standard version only). The Combined ABS version's engine is also black, with new Sherry Topaz Brown Metallic brake callipers.

The C-ABS model also integrates additional bodywork features to neatly cover the ABS system components. The independent front power unit near the engine is housed by a sleek continuation of the front fairing. Similarly at the rear, an attractive, black underseat cowl covers the ECU unit.

The CBR1000RR Fireblade for 2009 comes in the stunning Pearl Sunbeam White HRC Tri-colour, Repsol Race Replica livery, Achilles Black Metallic and Pearl Siren Blue.

CBR1000RR available in Repsol Edition (Blue / White / Orange / Red), Pearl White / Light Silver Metallic, Black, Red / Black MSRP: $11,999 - $12,499 (Repsol) CBR1000RR ABS available in Red / Black. MSRP: $12,999 (ABS)

2009 Honda CBR1000RR/ CBR1000RR ABS - Specifications

Model:	CBR1000RR/ CBR1000RR ABS
Engine Type:	999cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder
Bore and Stroke:	76mm x 55.1mm
Compression Ratio:	12.3:1
Valve Train:	DOHC; four valves per cylinder
Induction:	Dual Stage Fuel Injection (DSFI)
Ignition:	Computer-controlled digital transistorized with three-dimensional mapping
Transmission:	Close-ratio six-speed
Final Drive:	#530 O-ring - sealed chain
Suspension	Front: 43mm inverted HMAS cartridge fork with spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability; 4.3 inches travel Rear: Unit Pro-Link HMAS single shock with spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability; 5.4 inches travel
Brakes	Front: Dual radial-mounted four-piston calipers with full-floating 320mm discs Rear: Single 220mm disc CBR1000RR ABS: Honda electronic Combined ABS
Tires	Front: 120/70ZR-17 radial Rear: 190/50ZR-17 radial
Wheelbase:	55.4 inches
Rake (Caster Angle):	23.3o
Trail:	96.2mm (3.8 inches)
Seat Height:	32.3 inches
Fuel Capacity:	4.7 gallons, including 1.06-gallon reserve
Colors:	CBR100RR - Repsol Edition (Blue / White / Orange / Red), Pearl White / Light Silver Metallic, Black CBR1000RR ABS - Red / Black
Curb Weight*:	439 pounds (461.7 pounds CBR1000RR ABS)