(October 4, 2016) TORRANCE, Calif. — American Honda announced today that the legendary CBR1000RR SP has undergone a major overhaul for the 2017 model year, with a 33-pound weight reduction and 10 horsepower increase resulting in a 14% improvement in power-to-weight ratio.

First introduced overseas in 1992 (and in the U.S. shortly thereafter), Honda's largest CBR has continuously reset expectations of what an open-class sport bike should be, with a holistic "Total Control" design approach that focuses on cornering, acceleration and braking.

That practice is taken to the next level with the 25th anniversary CBR1000RR SP, which is also fully loaded with a cutting-edge electronics package. The result is a machine that is underpinned by the "Next Stage Total Control" concept, with nimble handling and amazing acceleration.

"Since their debut, CBR liter bikes have been designed to perform in the real world, the way real customers use them," said Lee Edmunds, manager of Motorcycle Marketing Communications at American Honda.

"We're pleased to unveil the 2017 CBR1000RR SP, which follows in that same tradition by providing a superbly balanced package with our best power-to-weight ratio ever. It works incredibly well on track and, even more importantly, is both exhilarating and uniquely rewarding to ride out on the open road."

The CBR1000RR SP has received a vast array of improvements, including some that come straight from the RC213V-S. Electronics play a big role, including semi-active Öhlins Electronic Control suspension (S-EC), plus a number of rider aids built around the five-axis Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU). Power and torque have been increased through a higher compression ratio and revised cam timing, while ample use of magnesium (engine covers) and titanium (muffler and—for the first time on a mass-production road bike—fuel tank) have reduced weight and improved mass centralization.

The twin-spar aluminum frame's rigidity balance has been finely adjusted, and the swingarm is stiffer. Brembo monobloc four-piston front brake calipers use high-performance track-ready brake pads, while a narrower radiator and new bodywork achieve a slimmer profile.

In addition to the CBR1000RR SP, Honda is also offering a competition-focused, limited-production CBR1000RR SP2, which comes with larger valves and lighter forged-aluminum Marchesini wheels.

Availability:
CBR1000RR SP: March 2017
CBR1000RR SP2: May 2017