No. 8
2015 Honda CBR1000RR SP: Honda is writing another chapter in the 22-year history of its renowned sport bike. Unchanged since 2008, the Honda CBR1000RR received a number of upgrades last year (engine, maps, exhaust) to not only keep pace on the WSBK tracks, but also make road riding more pleasant.

The new cylinder head with re-shaped and polished inlet and exhaust ports improves efficiency and top-end power (revised engine maps go along with that), while the exhaust pipe diameters are smaller to boost mid-range torque. The SP model benefits from hand-picked pistons and connecting rods, along with a lighter oil pump shaft for steadier performance at higher revs and greater durability. There's also a MotoGP-derived slipper clutch.

The real surprise comes from the chassis: Öhlins suspension, single seat, Brembo monoblock callipers. Ultimately, the CBR1000RR SP is the raciest and best-equipped Honda sport bike ever designed for track days -- a sophisticated and premium descendant of the Fireblade family.

Photo: Honda