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Styling And Design
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Ever since its launch back in 1992, the Firblade has had rival manafacturers constantly playing catch-up, with the 2008 model certainly no exception. looks have been completely overhauled this year, and the Fireblade has recieved a series of changes to its fairings, tailpiece Boasting Moto-GP and RC211V inspired looks, the Fireblades most notable features are its tailpiece hugging exhaust, sharp front fairing and twin front headlights. For 2008 the blade has been completely overhauled, with everything from tailpieces, fairings and even seats sharpened to the max. A host of colour opts are available, including silver/red and black/red. |
| + Moto GP style - An acquired taste |
| Score: 8/10 |
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Performance
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In comparison with the 2004/5 models, 2008 sees a beefier motor and better torque rise to its predecessors. When paired with its arch-rivals; (the Suzuki GSXR1000 and Yamaha R1), the RR can seem a little underpowered and lacking a little. Its the way in which power delivery is so smooth that makes it feel a little less ragged in comparison with rivals. Its also far more user friendly than a Kawasaki ZX10R. Grab it by the balls and it wont bite you back, though if you do with the ZX10R, you’ll have asphalt in your teeth. 170 bhp on the tap @ 11,250RPM and 0-100kph in 3.3 seconds, its all good. |
| + Forgiving, Rewarding - A little too relaxed |
| Score: 9/10 |
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Ride And Handling |
Pin-sharp and precise. The Fireblade features an electronic steering damper, that works exceptionally from standard. As expected fork setup is stiff, and provides one of the most stable handling superbike setups, aside to that of the R1-SP. Its stable dry weight of 176kg makes it feel like a 600, with bags more fun and power too! Squeeze its brake lever and you’ll realise its got enough bite to stop a freight train, with huge 320mm radial discs and twin pot brembo calipers. For those trackday warriors, peg clearance is great, and standard Bridgestone rubber perfect for throwing the knee down. |
| + Super stable - R1 more thrilling |
| Score: 9/10 |
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Comfort |
Perhaps the most comfortable superbike of the lot. Combining a blend of smooth power delivery and a snug riding position, the Blade has somewhat disgarded its early 90’s hooligan feel, and now stands corrected and well behaved. A dissapointment to some, but for those who seek comfort with mindblowing power to match, a very believable one. Pillions are slung high and staight ino the oncoming wind, and realistically wont go comfortable mounted to the bak of the blade. Screen height is reasonable, though you’l have to bite on it hard in order to stay on towards its top speed of 280km/h. |
| + Capable comfort - Pillion high-chair |
| Score: 6/10 |
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