Honda CB1000R 2018: retro in appearance, very tasty to ride! [ROAD TEST VIDEO]

We told you about our first immediate impressions and all the details of the new Honda CB1000R in a first article (you can find it here). Now we finally have the chance to tell you about it on video too.

Modern, with a minimalist but well-kept style, it can be defined as Neo Sports Cafè. In person it has an exciting look, with a nice contrast with some technologically rich details, which do not go unnoticed. It focuses on very compact dimensions, while the tank, without visible welding, is shaped and guarantees an excellent seat, thanks also to the ample leg space. Full LED headlights, with a round front with a charming profile. There are few plastic parts, only six, including the front mudguard, while we find a large quantity of metal ones. The instrument panel, with a particular T shape, is integrated into the upper steering plate. The license plate holder on the “+” is mounted for the first time on the single-sided swing arm, so to speak, on the chain side. It is very difficult not to observe components, such as the radiator shrouds and the burnished aluminum side panels, the machining on the engine crankcase, cylinder head and rear hub.

The version called CB1000R + has the same characteristics as the standard version, but is equipped with some additional details, such as heated grips, a front and rear mudguard flush with the wheel with aluminum details, the radiator with the CB1000R logo and, lastly, the beautiful Quickshifter system, i.e. the electronic gearbox that works both uphill and downhill.

The four-cylinder reaches 145 HP at 10.500 rpm, 20 more than the previous version. The pistons are forged rather than die-cast, just like on the latest generation Fireblade. The gear ratios have been shortened, improving the readiness and reactivity of the CB1000R on every route, even quicker in the initial sprint than the very sporty Fireblade. To complete everything, the renewed assisted clutch also takes care of it, which requires less effort at the lever and is equipped with anti-slipper, very effective when downshifting. The new exhaust weighs 11,2 kg, 4,5 less. The sound is so engaging, it makes you want to accelerate even when stationary. Another new feature is the Throttle by Wire system, with 4 Riding Modes, easily selectable on the left handlebar block. To manage the 145 HP there are 3 levels of power delivery, engine braking and finally traction control, which can be deactivated.

Moving on to the chassis, the new CB1000R is based on a new upper single-spar frame in boxed steel which uses lateral side plates to seal the single-arm pivot. A low weight, 212 kg in running order, 12 less than in the past, with an optimized weight distribution, which goes to 48,5% front and 51,5% rear. The fully adjustable Showa SFF-BP fork proves to be very sensitive and precise, while the rear monopole, also Showa, is capable of guaranteeing the right traction and optimal support, even in sections where the road surface is not perfect. We then find die-cast aluminum rims with split spokes, which combine the café racer look with excellent dynamic qualities. The rear is now a 190, instead there is a 180, while the powerful braking system includes two 310 mm floating discs at the front, with 4-piston radial-mount calipers.

But let's get to the point of contact: a route made up of hairpin bends and breathtaking landscapes, with destination the Ascari circuit, located near the beautiful town of Ronda. The weather conditions, not exactly favourable, allowed us to test the qualities of the CB1000R even with less than optimal grip. The riding position is essentially perfect, thanks to the well-studied ergonomics and the spot-on triangulation of footpegs, saddle and handlebars. A few turns and you are in control of the situation, the Honda CB1000R makes you immediately feel at ease, with a good compromise of handling and stability. On the fast track, however, the handlebars sometimes show a slightly nervous character of the bike, but always predictable and intuitive, that right mix of safety and aggressiveness that makes the riding experience pleasant, without ever becoming dangerous. Precise when turning in, even in the tightest corners, the CB1000R has an engine that "pulls you out" right from the medium range like a slingshot when exiting, even if you leave a high gear. As soon as you increase the pace, the great character of this new maxi naked immediately emerges, in terms of driving precision, but above all support in corners. It's surprising how capable it is of closing the trajectory, even when you're too far into a braking position. The new CB1000R is a powerful, sporty motorbike capable of giving great satisfaction when riding, but it is also easy, as per Honda tradition. Not only fun, but actually safe thanks, among other things, to a new and high-performance braking system, which enjoys modularity and reference power.

Once the 4 cylinder engine is turned on, the emotion rises, almost like goosebumps, which pervades the whole body. The roar is unleashed and the accelerator hits resound, with a full and adrenaline-filled sound. Of the engine, more than the 20 more horsepower, what amazes are the new electronics, first in the class, and the character. At medium and low speeds you can feel all the power made available by the "million" 4 cylinder engine. The new engine is well exploitable and offers greater pleasure thanks to an incredible "back". Much of the 104 Nm of torque is already available well before its maximum value of 8.250 rpm, given that the roar and responsiveness are already exciting at 4.000 rpm. Above 6.000 rpm, when the game could become too difficult to manage on the road and suggest daring everything between the curbs of a track, the delivery of the CB1000R becomes less bad and more rounded, perfectly in line with the idea of ​​a motorbike made above all for the road. Of the three maps available, in addition to the customizable one (User), the Sport is the one that offers the best. It is not "exaggerated" and the on-off never becomes annoying, in fact, but exploits the best power delivery from first to sixth gear, with low engine braking and traction control that leaves room for the more experienced and "hooligans" of enjoy some nice wheelies. The electronic gearbox is quick and precise when engaging and the shifts are well placed, both when downshifting and upshifting. The gear ratio includes a very short first and second gear, but the best progression is discovered from third upwards, with a bike that seems to want to tear up the asphalt, while the rev counter needle touches the red zone.

It's been years since the manufacturer has given such great satisfaction to fans of sporty driving even on the road, welcome CB1000R! The Honda CB1000R is on sale for 13.790 euros, 15.090 for the "+".

Tester clothing:
Jacket, pants, gloves and boots: Alpinestars
Helmet: Suomy SR Sport Dovizioso GP Replica