Stars of The British Motor Show 2023 – Honda CBR1000RR-R SP Fireblade
For many in the motorsport world, the Isle of Man TT is regarded as the ultimate test of bravery, speed, danger and excitement. Its exhilarating combination of lightning-quick superbikes, narrow undulating roads and a tight-knit community spirit is unmatched anywhere else, and anyone who dares to take on the unforgiving road course is worthy of immense respect.
However, there are certain riders, or ‘aliens’ as they are affectionately dubbed by bike fans, who stand head and shoulders above the rest.
John McGuinness is one such rider. With 23 wins at the Isle of Man TT, John is third on the all-time winners list at the legendary event, behind only Michael and Joey Dunlop.
Incredibly, he has competed in over 100 races overall, so to commemorate the occasion, Honda unveiled a limited edition 2022 CBR1000RR-R SP Fireblade last year .
Costing £30,000, this ultra-rare superbike is the perfect way to pay tribute to one of the most enduringly fast (and popular) riders at the Isle of Man TT, and invest in the McGuinness legend.
Of course, the relationship between McGuinness and Honda goes back a long way, with the majority of John’s Isle of Man success being achieved while riding Honda machinery – including on the Fireblade and the lower capacity CBR600RR.
Limited to a tiny 30 unit production run, this highly exclusive bike is based closely on the SP specification of the 30th Anniversary Honda Fireblade, which makes it about as advanced as possible for a road bike to be.
The livery is a dutiful replica of John’s 2022 TT colours, with a gorgeous gold and red combination dominating. Other standout details include gold wheel stripes and a film strip (which documents each of McGuinness’s Isle of Man starts on Honda machinery) wrapping itself around the bike.
To further distance this limited edition bike from more run-of-the-mill models, Honda has fitted a number of eye-catching features. They include a seat cowl, a larger front screen and a carbon fibre mudguard and hugger.
What’s more, the CBR1000RR-R SP is shod with Metzeler Racetec RR tyres and OEM hoops, which are supplied in the crate.
To officially recognise the run of exclusive commemoration motorcycles, John McGuinness has personally signed each example, meaning no two are the same. Honda has also included a plaque on the headstock, to further mark these bikes out as extra special.
Of course, given how rare and unique these Fireblades are, they are unlikely to see daily duty. Recognising this, Honda supplies each new owner with a custom mat for their garage, as well as a fitted bike cover and, amazingly, a crystal which has been engraved with a 3D printing laser.
The crystal is cut in the shape of the bike, providing a special accessory for each owner to cherish.
Now, if you are a bike fan, this is where this all gets particularly special.
Why?
Because the CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP 100th Start replica will be displayed at the British Motor Show as one of the star attractions between 17-20 of August 2023.
This is truly not an exhibit you can miss. See you at the Marshall Honda Bikes Stand in Hall 5.
