I have just learned: "the current 19 Fireblade just released ( only minor electronic tweaks ) is only coming through in small numbers due to a new model for 2020." No further detail, but I'm doing my damnedest to get more by the end of the day!! Thinking more logically though, I am sure we would have heard more of this in definitive forms by now? There's been no scoops or camouflage testings, and lets face it, no manufacturer is silent about leaking new model info. So, I guess now that I'm back to reality, this could be a bit 'ho hum'.
You just got Leon Camiers hopes up then Like you say, there is normally some sort of rumblings going on when a new bike is being developed. Only time will tell I guess but they need to do something, Honda would be looking bad all racing series if not for Marquez doing what he does.
On the flip side wouldn't they want to have given the 2019 bikes a chance to sell before making any official noise about a new bike for 2020? No better way to kill sales of the bikes already sat in dealerships than to announce a new model.
If true? It’s still a kick in the bits to all those who bought a so called new model (even if most of it was the same as the old bike) No concern to those of you who follow the brand with your hard earned!
Cool, my R1 will be 4 years old then and about to buy something new, hopefully honda can lure me back Into the fold
. . . and precisely the reason why there's no real detail available. I have probably blown my chances of being the privileged few, but I wasn't sworn to confidentiality clauses. Also, I couldn't learn any more so far. We have already had discussions in thread about the 2019 being no more than and extra stripe and an alleged ECU upgrade that Honda will not make available to owners of 2017 - 18 bikes. That makes me wonder whether there is an incentive to purchase a 2019 when 2018s are still available at ripping prices. There must be many like @SimonRR who have had jack of the brand but could be influenced back with the right package. Nevertheless, I'll keep my 2011 spic and span in readiness for a sale ad.
Let’s hope it’s no another “emperor’s new clothes” like the last 3 updates have been! They need a new rethink like they did with the 2008 model otherwise it won’t be 2 seconds a lap behind more like 10 years behind
I could have won some money with @Spygoat betting there wouldn't be an all new 2019 fireblade. I'm fairly confident I could win some money this time round betting there wont be an all new 2020 fireblade.
It's been mentioned by the commentators in Wsbk and BSB, mainly Whitham and I'm sure he has his ear to the ground! I've got my bike for 3 years now, so I'll let the 2020 bike come out, then wait a year for the niggles to be ironed out, then the following year I'll be ready for a change
Not so sure about that. With another 2 little Paulos by then you'll be lucky to be able to afford @bazzashadow 's vintage contraption.
He needs to do a lot of harsh braking & get them nuts banged on the tank into unserviceable mode I reckon
Yeah, guess so. A few rides with you and the elusive Di should do it as he'd be frequently harsh braking to allow you gals to catch up.
They were a classic racer. That was my era and close enough to my bike right down to the factory tank, twin discs, Borani rims and 18" (as opposed to 19") front wheel. Was outclassed by Yamaha's TZ350 in the hands of a good rider, but that bike must be seen as a forerunner of Honda's re-entry into racing before the V4 era. I wish I still had some photos - cigarette in mouth as well!! - because some times a simple image like this rekindles so many fond memories. Cheers sps!
Or his thingy would be in a different position looking at two lovely ar### in front of him it would get damaged even more
If there’s a new model, all those people who worked on it or pre-official release etc will have to sign confidential agreement which only leave road test to get a chance of spy shot. Honda is a big enough company and probably smart enough to do that on a beat up old fairing on real road until the very last bit. If you heard that info from a reliable source then it’s probably true. Companies do that sort of stuff, update the bike a tiny bit, then they can boost the sale of the now older model by giving what seems to be a discount /deal; and they will do it again when the new one come up and people trade their not so old bike for it.
I assure you it's very reliable, AND a person with a vested interest! Agree with your synopsis wholeheartedly.