Honda CBR1000RR Fireblade 2010 Review (2010)

What Is It Like?

Honda CBR1000RRA Fireblade

About Me

I'm a 54 year old male, 5ft 8'', with 36 years riding experience and I have owned 7 bikes.

Why Did You Choose It?

The Blade was and still is my dream bike!

What's Good?

Where do I start! For me, it's my perfect bike, from my first test ride I was smitten!

It's the only bike I've ridden or owned that feels so special! Just the feel of everything! The way she steers, goes (seriously rapid) and stops. She feels absolutely planted but nimble and light on her feet, she's very forgiving but totally thrilling.

She's also a real looker in her HRC colours, with no shortage of compliments wherever I've stopped.

I've tried other sport bikes from most of the main manufacturers but I've never been swayed and glad to get back on my trusty Blade.

What Could Be Improved?

As a performance bike, nothing really! For some the lack of a fuel gauge can be annoying but I don't really have a problem with that.

The height of the pegs are high and some taller riders may find them a bit extreme.

What's The Economy Like?

I find my Blade surprisingly economical. I normally see no less than 53 mpg while touring and that's with spirited riding

Any Mods or Upgrades?

Protective - All are a must as Honda parts are extortionate

• Radiator guard
• R&G crash protectors
• Stomp grips
• 3M Ventureshield paint protection - saved me unknown stone damage on Scottish B roads!

Performance

• Leo Vince Gp Pro Evo II can (the stock can is way to quiet and heavy)
• PCV with map switch and had custom maps baffle in-baffle out
• SF Sprint air filter
• Translogic Quickshifter
• Racetorx Gear Shift support
• Lithium Battery

Cosmetic

• Lightech chain adjusters
• GI pro gear indicator
• Various Stainless and Titanium fasteners
• Fork preload adjusters.

Engine

The engine is the heart of the Blade, it's turbine smooth with power everywhere and it picks up strong from just below 3,000 rpm all the way to the redline. It has so much grunt you can be lazy with gear changing and the drive out of corners is sublime!

I like the lack electronics, less to go wrong and you get exactly what you ask for, a pure analogue experience with no surprises.

There was talk of Blade's being oil burners but I haven't experienced that, neither has the other owners I know, from what I hear other manufacturers are no better and sometime worse.

Handling

One word Sublime! As a stocker package it ruled the Isle of Man TT for a number of years, beating more powerful bikes!

It's a bike that's easy to ride fast and gives you loads of confidence. The way it hooks up and just goes is a testament to the chassis.

Brakes

I find the stock brakes brilliant. I have fitted braided lines and SBS pads for extra bite but they didn't it. I just enjoy the extra feel and power that they give you!

I have a non ABS model which I'm extremely glad of, as the Fireblade forums are full of problems with the abs system! There are some real horror stories also maintenance and bleeding the system can run into £100's

Comfort

I find the Blade a very comfortable bike for my height and weight! I have a comfort seat which will help but I don't find her wristy at all.

With the Honda's taller screen it's a joy to go touring. I been to Europe and travelled the length of Britain without issue, we've clocked 25,000 miles together and I've loved every minute.

Reliability

I have had absolutely no issues in the 10 years I've owned her!

To Sum Up

Exceptional! I have no interest in newer bikes as my Blade does it all, looks so good and still feels fresh! I feel lucky to be her owner and will keep her as long as circumstances allow!

- Trevor P, 2020

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