Cars may be more practical than motorcycles for a lot or different reasons, but if you're the free-wheeling type that enjoys the breath of freedom that only bikes can provide, then the latter is definitely right inside your wheel house.

Now as far as picking the right bike is concerned, you'll have plenty of varieties to choose from, including Honda->ke291 and its latest sportsbike offering, the CB1000R->ke2813.

Dressed in a clean, essentials-only styling that belies its superbike capabilities, the CBR1000 was built using a sophisticated Gravity Die-Cast technology with a mono-backbone aluminum frame that is strong yet features thin-wall construction to ensure the bike is as light as a feather. The bike's seating position - a short, compact and lightweight seat and tail cowl - delivers excellent rider comfort and tremendous versatility for long-distance travel. There's also a stylish three-section LCD instrument panel features a multi-segment LCD tachometer and a distinctive triangular multi-reflector headlight, with unique LED position light.

As far as power is concerned, the CB1000R comes with a fuel-injected four-cylinder 998cc powerplant that boasts of Honda's esteemed sports and racing tradition. The engine has been tuned for loads of right-now power to go with a single-sided swingarm with single-shock rear suspension.

The Honda CB1000R has been described in a variety of ways, but whatever description you can think of for it, one thing will always remain true: it's a true modern iteration of a long line of classic, high-performance, hot-rod Hondas.

And judging by the early returns, it's doing its predecessors proud.

Find out more about the Honda CB1000R's specs after the jump

2011 Honda CB1000R

Specifications
  • Make: Array
  • Model: 2011 Honda CB1000R
  • Engine/Motor: fuel-injected four-cylinder
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Specifications

Model

CB1000R

Engine Type

998cc liquid-cooled inline four-cylinder

Bore and Stroke

75mm x 56.5mm

Compression ratio

11.2:1

Valve Train

DOHC; four valves per cylinder

Induction

PGM-FI Fuel Injection with automaticenrichment circuit and 36mm throttle bodies

Ignition

Computer-controlled digital transistorized with 3-D mapping

Transmission

Close-ratio six-speed

Final Drive

#530 O-ring chain

Suspension Front

43mm inverted HMAS cartridge fork with spring preload, rebound and compression damping adjustability; 4.3 inches travel

Suspension Rear

Single gas-charged HMAS shock with spring preload and rebound damping adjustability; 5.0 inches travel

Brakes Front

Dual radial-mounted four-piston calipers with 310mm discs

Brakes Rear

Single 256mm disc

Tires Front

120/70ZR-17 radial

Tires Rear

180/55ZR-17 radial

Wheelbase

56.9 inches

Rake (Caster Angle)

25.0°

Trail

99mm (3.9 inches)

Seat Height

32.5 inches

Fuel Capacity

4.5 gallons, including 1.0-gallon reserve

Color

Pearl Black

Curb Weight

TBD


*Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel--ready to ride.

Meets current CARB and EPA standards.