BMW S 1000 RR 2020 vs. Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP 2017

The BMW S 1000 RR 2020 and the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP 2017 are both high-performance supersport motorcycles that offer impressive specifications and features.

Starting with the engine and drive train, the BMW S 1000 RR 2020 is equipped with an in-line four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 999cc. It produces a powerful 207 HP of engine power and 113 Nm of torque. The engine features a DOHC configuration with four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 13.3. On the other hand, the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP 2017 also has an in-line four-cylinder engine with a displacement of 999.8cc. It generates 192 HP of engine power and 114 Nm of torque. The engine has a DOHC configuration with four valves per cylinder and a compression ratio of 13.

In terms of suspension, both motorcycles feature upside-down telescopic forks at the front and swing arm suspension at the rear. The BMW S 1000 RR 2020 has a front fork diameter of 45mm, while the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP 2017 has a slightly smaller front fork diameter of 43mm. Both motorcycles offer adjustable compression, preload, and rebound settings for the suspension. The rear shock absorber is a monoshock design for both bikes, made of aluminum material.

When it comes to the chassis, both motorcycles are built with aluminum frames. The BMW S 1000 RR 2020 has a twin-tube, load-bearing engine frame type, while the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP 2017 has a twin-tube frame type. The rake angle is 66.9 degrees for the BMW and 66.7 degrees for the Honda, while the trail measures 93.9mm for the BMW and 96mm for the Honda.

BMW S 1000 RR 2020

In terms of braking, both motorcycles are equipped with double disc brakes at the front with a diameter of 320mm. The BMW S 1000 RR 2020 uses radial technology for its front brakes, while the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP 2017 features radial, monoblock technology.

Both motorcycles come with advanced rider assistance systems such as ABS, riding modes, quickshifters, and traction control. Additionally, the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP 2017 offers electronically adjustable suspension and anti-wheelie control, which the BMW S 1000 RR 2020 does not have.

In terms of dimensions and weights, the BMW S 1000 RR 2020 has a front tire width of 120mm and a rear tire width of 190mm, with both tires having a diameter of 17 inches. The wheelbase measures 1441mm, and the seat height is 824mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 197kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 16.5 liters. On the other hand, the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP 2017 has the same front and rear tire dimensions as the BMW. The wheelbase is slightly shorter at 1404mm, and the seat height is slightly higher at 832mm. The kerb weight, including ABS, is 195kg, and the fuel tank capacity is 16 liters.

Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP 2017

Both motorcycles come equipped with LED headlights for enhanced visibility.

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 boasts excellent DDC (Dynamic Damping Control) precision and top performance. Its electronics package is highly advanced, and it offers a harmonious overall package for both road and track use. On the other hand, the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP 2017 is praised for its light-footed handling and strong performance in alternating curves. It has a sleek look and feel, a powerful engine, and is considered to have the best electronic chassis on the market. The bike also features a great shift assistant.

As for weaknesses, the BMW S 1000 RR 2020 is criticized for feeling somewhat "characterless" compared to other bikes on the market, such as the Aprilia and Honda. It also lags behind slightly on the spec sheet in direct comparison. On the other hand, the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP 2017 has a slight roughness in throttle response at the very start.

In conclusion, both the BMW S 1000 RR 2020 and the Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade SP 2017 offer impressive performance and features. The BMW excels in its linear power delivery, wide rev range, and advanced electronics package, while the Honda stands out with its light-footed handling, strong performance in curves, and excellent electronic chassis. Both motorcycles have their strengths and weaknesses, making them suitable choices for riders looking for high-performance supersport bikes.