BMW S 1000 RR 2020 vs. Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade 2017

The BMW S 1000 RR 2020 and the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade 2017 are both powerful supersport motorcycles, but they have some key differences in their technical specifications and performance.

Starting with the engine and drive train, both bikes have an inline four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 999cc. However, the BMW S 1000 RR has a larger bore of 80mm compared to the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade's 76mm. This difference in bore size may contribute to the BMW's higher engine power of 207 HP, compared to the Honda's 192 HP. The BMW also has a higher torque of 113 Nm, while the Honda has a slightly higher compression ratio of 13.3 compared to 13 on the BMW.

In terms of suspension, both bikes feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and a swing arm with a monoshock at the rear. The BMW has a larger front fork diameter of 45mm compared to the Honda's 43mm. Both bikes offer adjustments for compression, preload, and rebound on their suspension systems. The Honda's rear suspension is made of aluminum, while the BMW's material is not specified.

When it comes to the chassis, both bikes have an aluminum frame. The BMW's frame is a twin-tube, load-bearing engine design, while the Honda's frame is also a twin-tube design. Both bikes have a similar rake angle, with the BMW at 66.9 degrees and the Honda at 66.7 degrees. However, the Honda has a slightly longer trail of 96mm compared to the BMW's 93.9mm.

BMW S 1000 RR 2020

In terms of brakes, both bikes have double disk brakes at the front with a diameter of 320mm. The BMW's front brakes use radial technology, while the Honda's brakes also have monoblock technology. Both bikes are equipped with ABS and other advanced rider assistance systems such as traction control and riding modes.

In terms of dimensions and weights, both bikes have a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 190mm, with a 17-inch diameter for both front and rear tires. The BMW has a slightly longer wheelbase of 1441mm compared to the Honda's 1405mm. The seat height is also slightly higher on the Honda at 832mm compared to the BMW's 824mm. The BMW is slightly heavier with a kerb weight of 197kg compared to the Honda's 196kg. Both bikes have similar fuel tank capacities of around 16 liters.

In terms of equipment, both bikes are equipped with LED headlights.

Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade 2017

In terms of strengths, the BMW S 1000 RR 2020 offers a very linear power delivery, making it highly controllable. It has a wide rev range and pleasant control, with plenty of pressure in the lower rev range thanks to ShiftCam technology. The bike also has excellent DDC (Dynamic Damping Control) for precision and top performance. The electronics package is also highly advanced, and the overall package is harmonious both on the road and on the racetrack.

The Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade 2017 has strengths in its good brakes, low weight, and nimble handling. The engine delivers plenty of power throughout the rev range, and the build quality is high.

In terms of weaknesses, the BMW S 1000 RR 2020 may seem a bit "characterless" compared to other bikes in its class, and it lags behind on the spec sheet in direct comparison. The Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade 2017 lacks a shift assistant, and the throttle grip can feel sluggish and imprecise. The chassis is not as precise as desired for setting the scene for great handling, and there may be disadvantages at peak performance on long straights.

Overall, both the BMW S 1000 RR 2020 and the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade 2017 are high-performance supersport motorcycles with their own strengths and weaknesses. The BMW offers a more advanced electronics package and a slightly more powerful engine, while the Honda has a lighter weight and nimble handling. Ultimately, the choice between the two will depend on the rider's preferences and priorities.