Restyled CB1000R arrives

Now available in Australia following its debut at EICMA last year, the new CB1000R not only looks different to past CB1000 roadsters, it also feels and performs differently, according to Honda.

The neo sports café tag is how Honda describe the new model’s stripped-back “retro industrial minimalism” styling that combines sports naked and café racer elements, with a focus on textured metal finishes instead of plastic for trim parts, like the airbox cover and radiator shrouds, while the engine features machined sections to break up its predominantly black finish.

The tank is a highly-sculpted unit, while the headlight is also distinctive and features detailing that picks up on the metal trim pieces. At 212kg, the new CB1000R is a full 12kg lighter than the previous model, but retains a torque-rich 998cc four-cylinder engine for a 20 per cent improvement in the power-to-weight ratio.

Engine retuning has improved overall power by 15kW to 106kW, with more top-end power and improved mid-range torque, as well as better fuel economy. The throttle-by-wire system from the current CBR1000RR Fireblade comes with three pre-set riding modes, while an assist/slipper clutch is standard for the six-speed transmission that now features shorter gearing.

The frame is a box-section backbone steel type, with Showa suspension at both ends - SFF front and BRFC rear. Other upgrades include standard ABS, radial-mount 310mm front brake discs, a 190-section rear tyre and LED lighting all round.

Instrumentation has been incorporated into the top triple clamp, while the swingarm-mounted licence plate holder (Honda’s first) gives a clean, almost streetfighter look to the tail.

Overall dimensions are slightly smaller than the previous CB1000R, despite a 10mm shorter wheelbase, but rider comfort is claimed to be better, with a more relaxed riding position and handlebars with a higher mount and wider spread.

Available in Graphite Black (pictured) and Candy Chromosphere Red colours, the 2018 CB1000R is priced from $16,499 (list pricing, excluding ORCs).

See your Honda dealer for more details.