2006 HONDA CBR1000RR FIREBLADE

’06 FIREBLADE A SLEEKER, LIGHTER, MORE POWERFUL MACHINE

• The evolution of the CBR1000RR Fireblade continues as modifications for 2006 have resulted in a lighter, faster and more visually refined machine.

• From its initial conception, the CBR1000RR has featured strong visual and technological ties to Honda’s famed RC211V MotoGP race machine.

• For its new second generation, the Fireblade’s bodywork has a new look that more impressively expresses its sense of speed and winning performance. Front and side cowls have been redesigned with a sleeker, more curvaceous and more aggressive look that still maintains strong bloodline ties to its MotoGP racing predecessor. Detailed changes include a more pronounced indent in the front cowl and a slight redesign of the shape of the RR’s distinctive ‘Slimline’ headlights that combine to project a more aggressive forward visage.

• The fairing’s new side cowls also feature more compact and rounded lines to lighten and accentuate its aerodynamic look as well as its high-speed handling, giving the Blade a stronger look of high performance. Moreover, the lower exhaust ducts in the side cowls more effectively draw air through the radiator to greatly reduce the rider’s exposure to engine heat for enhanced riding comfort.

• The changes are not just about ‘good looks’, however as considerable attention has been focused on reducing the engine’s weight while achieving a notable increase in maximum power output. This increase was achieved not with any single improvement, but rather with a collection of detailed modifications that add up to a significant boost in performance.

• A new cylinder head boosts power throughout the rev range along with new intake valves actuated by a more aggressive camshaft profile. New double valve springs also replace the single coil items on the previous model.

• The ram-air intake and exhaust systems have also been made freer flowing. The compression ratio has risen due to slightly smaller combustion chambers in the new head, with the rpm scale increasing from 11650 to an amazing 12200rpm.

• The crankshaft is also stronger thanks to the use of a stronger new steel alloy while the camshafts have had 450g shaved through the use of thinner shaft walls. The fuel injection system has been recalibrated to suit the changed engine characteristics with a 3.4% increase in top end power.

• Other areas of weight saving have been realised by a lighter ECU, radiator, hoses and a new magnesium generator cover. In fact, the 2006 model is 3kg lighter than before at 176kg which, along with the boost in power, provides a 3.3% increase in the overall power-to-weight ratio.

• Additional refinements include the final drive ratio which has been changed to suit the higher revving engine with a 42 tooth rear sprocket replacing the previous 40 tooth item.

• Other changes inside the crankcases promote further durability with new gears for the six-speed cassette gearbox, and the clutch now rides on new needle bearings that enhance engagement off the mark.

• A shorter swingarm and a slightly steeper steering head rake all add up to a reduction in wheelbase, whilst the under seat exhaust system has also been shaved in weight.

• The Fireblade’s formidable braking power is further improved with larger front disc rotors along with a pair of four-piston Tokico callipers whilst the rear caliper is also smaller and lighter than before.

• Honda continually looks for ways of making their rides as smooth as possible, and the suspension has therefore been revised with new front and rear valving. The Pro-Link shock also features a revised linkage to aid traction. And to cater for those who want more ‘bottom’ comfort in their race performance bikes, the seat foam has been thickened slightly.

• The new 2006 Fireblade also continues as the only motorcycle on the road equipped with its highly advanced Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD), the revolutionary electro-hydraulic unit mounted directly atop its steering head that helps maintain its smoothly predictable high-speed handling.

• 2006 colours include Winning Red (with Graphite Black) and Iron Nail Silver (with Force Silver Metallic and Graphite Black). Honda fans can expect the new Fireblade to be available in Dealers around early April of next year.