EICMA 2017: Honda Unveils CB1000R Blade

It is the time for some drool-worthy motorcycles! The 2017 EICMA is finally underway and there are some amazing motorcycles on display. The Japanese company will be showcasing five new models and two models which have been extensively updated. Up first is the Honda CB1000R Blade or what we knew as the Neo Sports Café. Along with the CB1000R, Honda also showcased the CB300R and the CB125R. But taking about the CB1000R, Honda has given the bike a lovely retro and minimalist look with the round LED headlamp, chiselled fuel tank and the sharp seat.

(Honda CB1000R at EICMA 2017)

The bike has been designed afresh ground up. A glance at the bike you get feeling of looking at a bike which looks stylish and chic. The bike gets a new steel chassis along with Showa forks. Also, the CB1000R weighs 12 kg less than the previous model. The bike makes 20 per cent more power than the previous model, with the 998 cc in-line four motor making 143.3 bhp at 10,500 rpm. Honda says that the mid-range has become stronger yet, thanks to a longer stroke. The increase in power along with the reduction in weight results in a 20 per cent better power-to-weight ratio.

(Honda CB1000R at EICMA 2017)

The Honda CB1000R also gets ride-by-wire throttle along with three preset riding modes and a rider configurable mode as well. The different riding modes offer different combinations of power and engine braking. There is a slipper clutch and an optional quick-shifter as well. Honda will also be launching a CB1000R+ which gets a tonne of additional features as standard such as heated grips and quick-shifter and so on.

On the side-lines of the CB1000R, Honda also showcased two smaller displacement variants of the CB1000R at EICMA. The CB300R and the CB125R get top-spec parts such as 41 mm suspension, 4-piston brake callipers, LCD instrument display and IMU-based ABS as well. Of course, these motorcycles are just concepts, but Honda does plan to bring them to production soon.