26 September 2011 - In the ongoing pursuit of the ultimate performance machine, Honda announces the release of the 2012 CBR1000RR Fireblade. Twenty years since the first Fireblade was released, riders can look forward to a model encompassing advanced technology and even greater performance.

The 2012 CBR1000RR aims for superior handling and greater rideability through the strengthening of suspension, upgrades in styling and reduction of weight.

Honda's initial Fireblade concept was to create the most lightweight bike that allowed riders to experience the joy of riding, while incorporating new safety features and cutting-edge technologies, Honda's legendary 2012 CBR1000RR stays true to this.

With the aim of improving handling and achieving unprecedented levels of riding stability, the 2012 Fireblade boasts changes to the front and rear suspension. The rear suspension continues to use the Unit Pro-Link suspension system but has the additional benefit of the world's first balance-free rear cushion made by Showa. For the front suspension, the new CBR1000RR features a telescopic inverted fork with an inner tube and a newly adapted Showa big piston front fork. As a result, the new CBR1000RR sees significantly improved stability in both damping force and shock-absorbing performance, leading to improved traction and stability.

A newly design, 12-spoke, lightweight aluminium cast wheel has been adopted for both the front and rear. Due to the increased number of spokes, rigidity has been further evened out for load received in all directions from the tyre contact points. This change and the changes to the suspension offer improved manoeuvring feel.

A look of speed and dynamism has characterised every generation of the Honda Fireblade, for 2012 these qualities have been further developed to highlight the bike's racing image. With a line-beam headlight and air intake shapes adding even greater sharpness, the new CBR1000RR offers a novel and intrepid front face.

A new all-digital LCD meter design offers a truly racing inspired image offering excellent visibility and high functionality and with a 5-level display, the REV indicator linked to a digital tachometer instantly transmits accurate information to the rider.

Honda's new CBR1000RR features the world's first electronically controlled "Combined ABS" for super sports bikes, developed by Honda in 2008 and loaded on the 2009 model, garnering rave reviews from super sports bike-loving riders all over the world. By having both the conventional mechanically-controlled combined brake system (CBS) and the combined electronically controlled anti-lock brake system (ABS), the advanced braking system allows for even finer control of braking which offers the rider an even higher level of controllability.

The lightweight and compact, liquid-cooled DOHC inline 4-cylinder engine features a displacement of 999cc. The Programmed Dual Sequential Fuel Injection System (PGM-DSFI) was revisited and enhanced for 2012 to make a sports model that is even easier and more fun to handle.

Like its predecessor, the new CBR1000RR is equipped with the Honda Electronic Steering Damper (HESD), a compact and lightweight, electronically-controlled hydraulic steering damper which allows nimble handling during low speed riding while at high speeds, it suppresses disturbance from the road surface and keeps shimmy in check to offer strong and stable handling.

Over the past twenty years the Fireblade model has layered advancement on advancement and has never ceased to impress customers with its cutting-edge technologies, while also prioritising what is vital to motorcycle riding; the enjoyment of the ride

The 2012 Honda CBR1000RR will be released to the Australian market in three striking colours; Victory Red, Graphite Black and Tri Colour. Due for release at the end of 2011, more information on price will follow.

For more information see your Honda Dealer or visit www.cbr1000RR.com.au

www.hondamotorcycles.com.au
Dealer Locator, Ph: 1 300 1 HONDA

Media Contact:

Emma Kershaw
Coordinator Public Relations
Honda Australia Motorcycle and Power Equipment Pty Ltd
Telephone: (+613) 9270 1183
Facsimile: (+613) 9357 0826
Website: www.honda.com.au
Email: EKershaw@hondampe.com.au

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