Honda Launches 2018 CB1000R In Thailand

Honda had first revealed the next generation CB1000R at the 2017 EICMA motor show and now it has entered Asian markets with a launch at the Bangkok Motor show. The new bike follows a completely new design approach - that of a neo-retro cafe racer with a round LED headlamp, clean tail and a chunky side-slung exhaust unit.

Power comes from the same 998cc long-stroke four-cylinder motor from the 2006 CBR1000RR Fireblade that also powers its predecessor. The motor, however, has received a host of upgrades in the form of a higher compression ratio, forged pistons, revised inlet and exhaust tracts, a larger 44mm throttle body and a new exhaust system. Power figures receives a massive boost too - up from 125PS at 10,000rpm and 99Nm at 7,750rpm on the previous model to 145 PS at 10,500 rpm and 104Nm at 8,250 rpm. That's a 16 per cent increase in power and 5 per cent increase in torque. Rev limit is also up, from 10,300 rpm to 11,500 rpm. Electronics come in the form of ride-by-wire that allows multiple rider modes and allows adjustment to engine braking and traction control. The six-speed gearbox now has shorter ratios for better acceleration and a slipper clutch for better engine control.

It’s not just the motor, but the chassis and riding position have also been revised. The handlebar is now wider and taller, allowing for a more upright riding position. Courtesy a new steel frame and swingarm, the 2018 model has shed 12kg. It gets new and lighter looking 17-inch alloys that have a larger 190/55 R17 rear tyre in place of the earlier 180/55 R17 one. New suspension comes in the form of front Showa Separate Function Fork — Big Piston setup that is lighter and fully adjustable. Rear gets a Showa Balance Free Rear Cushion monoshock that is fully adjustable as well. Braking is via twin 310mm discs radially clamped with Tokico calipers and a 256mm rear disc. ABS will come as standard.

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We expect Honda to launch the 2018 CB1000R in India this year. It would replace the CBR1000R currently sold here. The 2018 model, when launched here, is expected to be priced around Rs 14 lakh. Once launched, it will rival the Suzuki GSX S1000 and the Kawasaki Z1000.