For some reason, Honda is releasing several models to the European press long before they become available to the press in the United States. Among these is the CBR954RR (known as the Fireblade in Europe). Several European enthusiast magazines are publishing riding impressions of the new CBR954RR that are very positive — noting, particularly, a substantial increase in low to mid-range torque over last year’s CBR929RR.
The displacement increase (from a bore increase of 1 mm) is coupled with a significant increase in compression (accounting for the torque change). These publications are also raving about the handling and brakes.
We hope to bring you one of the first ride reviews of a U.S. press bike in early 2002.