HONDA FIREBLADE TRACK IMPRESSIONS
By Adam Child ‘Chad’
Portimão is a MotoGP track known for its fast, demanding layout, a track I'm familiar with. I rode the 2017 Fireblade here on its world launch and I’ve extensive experience on the 2023 Blade as well. Additionally, I'd done thorough research, attended a long presentation, and had discussions with Honda engineers and TT legend John McGuinness MBE, all of whom hinted at something special. Yet, what I experienced exceeded my expectations.
Let's start with the engine. While peak power and torque remain unchanged on paper, the 2024 Blade feels significantly stronger and more potent, delivering a thrust that feels like it has an extra 20 horses. The acceleration is staggering. Even as I shifted into fifth gear on the start/finish straight at nearly 300kph, the Blade surged ahead relentlessly. Honda claims it's the most powerful inline four-cylinder on the market, and I wholeheartedly agree. I anticipated it to be fast, considering the previous model was no slouch, but this takes it to a whole new level.
However, it's not just about raw power. The precision and smoothness of the throttle response, coupled with the addictive sound from the split throttle bodies and the Akrapovic exhaust, make you feel like a World Superbike rider – almost. There's no sudden surge or abruptness; it's all smooth and typically Honda. The initial connection of the throttle, where you begin to demand power, is where the Blade SP truly shines. Despite setting the power mode to 'P1' – which offers high throttle response and full torque split – it doesn’t feel aggressive or twitchy. Transitioning from a closed to an open throttle, especially on the edge of the Pirelli, requires a controlled yet precise delivery, and the Blade excels at this, thanks to its split throttle system that effectively manages torque to the rear tire.
Experiencing such formidable power delivered with such smoothness and precision creates a unique sensation, particularly around a track like Portimão. It's akin to possessing an iron fist with the finesse of a concert pianist. While many race bikes boast similar power, they often lack friendliness at low speeds or small throttle openings. Conversely, user-friendly bikes usually lack excitement at higher speeds. The Blade, however, strikes a perfect balance, capable of breaking lap records while remaining approachable and non-threatening.
The chassis is equally impressive, albeit with less dramatic changes for 2024. The new Smart EC3 Öhlins suspension offers either semi-active or fixed modes, with active compression and rebound damping in A modes. Adjusting the preload manually is straightforward, aided by a weight input guide on the dash, simplifying the process. During the first session on Pirelli slicks, I opted for the A Sport mode, then flicked to A Track mode mid-session with the press of a button. The semi-active suspension technology has advanced considerably in recent years, blurring the lines between active and conventional suspension. The Blade's suspension offers excellent feedback, control, and response, working seamlessly even on Portimão's challenging mix of corners. It’s hard to guess if it’s active on conventional.
Unfortunately, our track time was limited due to changing weather conditions, preventing us from fully exploring the Blade's capabilities. I only had the chance to test the Automatic suspension mode, not the manual, and barely scratched the surface of the rider aids' potential. Given more time, I'd particularly like to explore the Two Motor TBW-assisted engine brake system, offering three levels of engine braking. Additionally, there are three modes available for the cornering ABS, enhancing braking performance on the track.
Speaking of braking, the Brembo Stylema R calipers offer impressive stopping power and consistency, instilling confidence with every lap. The combination of outstanding Öhlins suspension and cornering ABS allows for aggressive corner entry, a feature I gradually become accustomed to during the session.
Overall, I'm thoroughly impressed with Honda's new Blade; it's difficult to find fault. As someone who prefers a more substantial bike, I find the frontal area a bit small, which may pose challenges for taller riders trying to tuck in. Additionally, the dashboard and switchgear feel somewhat complicated. And to fully exploit the Fireblade SP's potential, riders must weigh themselves before riding to achieve the perfect suspension setup, which may be a minor inconvenience some more than others. However, these are minor grievances considering the overall excellence of the machine.
The ride on the 2024 Honda Fireblade SP left me breathless and slightly astonished. Despite my initial skepticism based on the changes listed on paper, the experience revealed a machine that not only laps faster but also offers greater ease in riding at high speeds.
To put this in perspective, the 2023 iteration of the Fireblade dominated the UK's road-based National Superstock championship last summer. However, the 2024 Blade surpasses its predecessor in every aspect. The inline-four engine boasts increased midrange power and drive, enhanced further by the Two Motor Throttle By Wire system, which also produces a wonderfully racy sound. Additionally, a new frame and the automatic Smart EC3 suspension provide the rider with heightened feedback and confidence, elevating the overall riding experience.
But Honda hasn't neglected road riders either. The improved riding position offers more space, while the broader torque spread enhances the Blade's versatility, making it an even more formidable tool for spirited Sunday rides.
Given the briefness of this test, it's challenging to quantify the extent of Honda's improvements over the previous model or predict its position in the superbike hierarchy. BMW’s M 1000 RR and Yamaha’s R1M are likely contenders, but formidable competition may also arise from Italian manufacturers such as Aprilia and Ducati.
Whether these enhancements will propel the Blade back into WSBK-winning territory remains to be seen. However, regardless of its competitive standing, the 2024 Honda CBR1000RR-R SP delivers a thrilling ride, embodying the essence of a road-legal race bike with headlights. In an era where some manufacturers are scaling back their offerings in the 1000cc sports bike class, Honda deserves praise for producing something truly exceptional.
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