Long time lurker second time poster (just posted in the new members section a couple of days ago). Last sport bike was a 2012 S1000RR which I owned for nearly 5 years but for some reason sold. I ride mainly on the road with about 2 track days a year. I'm thinking about the 14-16 SP, probably non-ABS, given all the issues reported here and elsewhere (even though I haven't been able to find a non-ABS bike for sale yet). I had a few other questions: 1. Does not having TC make a real difference on the road/track? I'm not looking to break lap records or lose my license but I would like to stay upright if possible 2. Ergonomics/riding position: how comfortable is the SP? I got on fine with the Beemer even though I'm only 5' 7". How does it compare? I know I have to find out in person but I don't want to go too far down the road of acquisition yet. I'm not a tourer - more of a gentle blaster - and actually prefer the sports position (as long as it isn't cramped) to the upright position 3. I know most sports bikes suffer from vibrations to some extent but some are worse than others (2017 GSXR1000 I'm looking at you). My BM needed heavy bar end weights and grip puppies but was fine afterwards. How is the SP? Thanks for any help/advice.
I’ve got a 2008 model which is essentially same mechanically but with less good suspension than the SP. My answers are 1. Lack of TC and ABS is not an issue, the bike is really kind to the rider. 2. The bike is really comfy (as long as you buy the Honda e-cushion seat). I’ve ridden 600 miles in a day 3. There are no vibrations and an SP will be even smoother as the engine is blue printed (balanced by weight - matched pistons etc on each bike) I’ve had mine since 2009 and I also have a 2017 Z1000SX which has TC and needs it occasionally, has an uncomfortable seat (even with the Kawasaki equivalent of the e cushion seat) but a more comfy upright riding position to partially offset the poor seat. The Kawasaki has minor engine vibrations around 7,000rpm, the blade has none at any revs. I’m not a track rider any more, just a road rider but like to get a move on where appropriate. Hope this helps, I’m sure many others will add their own opinions / advice
I had a non abs 2016 SP....beautiful bike. Rode like a dream. I could tell the difference with the blue printed engine against my other blades. It was ridden all year and did a lot of miles and never missed a beat. Don't worry about lack of TC etc unless you're planning on riding like mcpint around the roads The 2016 and below blades are probably one of best non analog sportsbikes that will look after you. You'll be fine with the riding position it's certainly a lot more comfy and less aggressive than r1s, rsvs, panis etc. Get the comfort seat or similar. Regarding vibrations they're fine, I've ridden s1000rrs and the blade is nothing like it with the annoying vibes. Non abs are hard to find I've been after a replacement for a while and they just don't come up often. You could always get the abs removed though...
I'm actually a tad shorter than you and have never found the blade to be uncomfortable, have toured in Europe on many occasions, one trip was over 3000 miles in a very short time absolutely no problems. My 09 has no fancy rider aids and has been ultra reliable. As you have probably been advised avoid early ABS models the later bikes have I believe got the issues sorted. Good luck with the search.
I have a non abs 2014 sp without a shadow of doubt the best bike I’ve owned and ridden by far,as Lozzy said you can tell the difference with the blue printed engine it just spins up so much easier than a standard blade the power is just in the right place for the road very linear,the handling is sublime also mines just a couple of clicks off standard settings and where I look it just goes there onto its ear no fuss no drama proper looks after you and the amount of mechanical grip available is immense no TC required
Couldn't have put it better....' where I look it just goes' and yes....proper looks....a stunning bike that I never got tired of looking at...
My local dealer's got a 16 reg SP in, walked past it earlier and gave it a little pat. Fairly sure it's an ABS bike.
Is it this one? I've been wondering if to see if they'll remove the abs on this as part of a deal...providing its in mint condition https://www.motorcyclenews.com/bikes-for-sale/honda/cbr1000rr-fireblade-sp/100038090/
It's this one. http://www.suttonmotorcycles.com/bikes-in-stock/honda/cbr1000rr-fireblade-sp/122011.htm Being a main dealer they probably won't remove the ABS.
Thanks guys. Didn't know the ABS could be removed... My S1000RR had the vibe problem but I quelled it with grip puppies and bar end weights. Would prefer not to have to though! @Manofsteel that is one beautiful bike. BTW do the newer SPs (eg 17s) have blue-printed engines?
I went from a vtr to a 16 blade and I first wanted abs but after reading went for standard Glad I did And apart from the odd spin up if it’s damp or cold tyre this bike is so smooth I can’t believe it I love it
