2020 superbike shootout | MCN | Motorcyclenews.com

[@mbal4052]

The Honda sounds sooo good

[@prateekkolurmatada8679]

The Ducati doesn't come with heated grips cuz..it's already cooking you.🔥

[@stfu6397]

😂😂

[@stfu6397]

Not wrong

[@donp9898]

My 2021 v4s has heated grips

[@Tom-nx6ev]

Not as standard sadly. All mine has is the button for it lol.

[@theonlyredspecial]

Funnily enough even though Michael is (mostly) right in what he says. I demod the blade rr-r sp and fell in love with it. I’ve a 2019 heavily modded blade and the new 2020 is really fun and exciting. The engine sound when the flap opens is intoxicating (it’s a full titanium system too). The handling is immense and the Build quality is better than any blade I remember and up there with the best of them . The front end is so planted and smooth. Can’t say I’ve ever been a huge fan of the bmw especially the finish. I mean the welding on that exhaust is shocking (I know most people will change it but I’m not sure that’s a good excuse). Ducati is just too hot to enjoy on the roads. Love them all to be honest but I think people who are thinking about the blade need to ride it. Even the riding position over the 2019 isn’t too extreme. It’s basically a MotoGP bike for the road.

[@bellicromanx]

Is the bottom end as weak as he says?

[@theonlyredspecial]

@@bellicromanx its certainly not weak no - the butterfly valve doesnt open until about 6,000 rpm in first and second, and about 4,500 in 3rd - although getting higher than 3rd gear on the road if you are in the 8k+ 'zone' its going to be license losing. I demod the bike and was hitting 90mph in first gear before hitting the max revs. 2nd gear apparently you can hit 144mph - so the gearing is very tall indeed - an indication of the pure track bike design by Honda. Sprocket changes might be done by some new owners im guessing. I have a 2013 respol which is dynojetted and a 2019 black carbon fireblade (both heavily modified and you can see short videos on them on my channel - ive put about £10,000 to £15,000 into both my fireblades), and they have a bit more 'go' below 4,000 rpm, but I think the 2020 blade is deceptive in the fact that its actually pulling really well, but it has such an immense power band around 8,000 rpm that mentally 'you think' it is not doing much until then, but thats definitely not the case. I think we are seeing from reviewers a repeat of the comments on the 2016-2019 bike that it 'lacked horsepower' (Michael was not guilty of this however he was spot on with his analysis) - most people who didnt ride those bikes just repeated what a 'rival brand' owner said and it became almost a 'myth' online. Who needs 190bhp for the road? lets be honest. The 2020 bike has a dual exhaust system, if you study it - Honda claim the smaller pipe is for lower revs to keep noise down, and to help boost torque, and the straight through pipe opens up via the butterfly valve higher in the rev range to help the short stroke engine. I spoke with Akraprovic about this (as ive bought so much stuff from them) and they are making a carbon end can for the titanium system on the fireblade to help increase horsepower by around 5bhp and to boost torque at the lower end. Its louder however (around 105dBa @ 5,500rpm) - and I think Honda were very aware of the design when they made the bike - its already going to be too loud to get accepted on most tracks in the UK and I think unless you alter the exhaust its going to be basically a track day bike for Spain. It sounds like a MOTOGP bike after 10,000 rpm. Absolutely nothing like it on the road right now. My views of the 2020 blade were a huge step up in build quality - something Michael noted well, and the keyless fob system is genius as it has let Honda create a huge arm sized ram air induction centralised system without having a massive blockage in the middle. I think the bike is pulling 0-60 mph times (according to a friend of mine who works for HRC) of 2.7 secs, so I think this 'lack of grunt' is based more around the fact that Honda have unashamedly focused on high gearing and almost a 600cc style gear change style to suit track riders. My overall view of the 2020 blade was that it was build to incredibly high standards both in regards to the equipment on the bike, but also the finishing standards. The engine is a short stroke MotoGP design to increase power in the high end - its not going to be so tolerant of sloppy gear changes - so on the road Michael is right, you won't be able to push it so hard if you are lazy with your gear changes but its a heck of a lot of fun and makes plenty of power for anyone on the road you just have to learn to ride it a bit differently. I already bought a black SP RRR with the carbon kit (and I already own two, im not just another internet bloke without prior experience). Can I just say, two of my friends have the BMW RR's and they are great bikes - I have owned quite a few BMWs over the years, but I think the finishing on these bikes is well below the standard of Ducati and Honda. I still can't get over the work on the exhaust system on the BMW. It looks like I did the welding on it in my garage. No one ever seems to mention the shoddy build quality but as Michael says, its a much cheaper bike now compared to the RR-R Honda and Ducati. ive ridden the Ducati, and its an immense bike, but its incredibly hot under the arse cheeks, I didnt enjoy it very much on the road. Get a test drive yourself if you are interested - its the only way to get your own view - I am not discrediting Michael - he was one of the only reviewers of the 2017-2019 blade who NAILED it while everyone else was 'its only got 190bhp!'. But I think he has been a little bit harsh on the RR-R. Its really not designed to be a road bike and while I agree with a lot of his points, I don't agree with them all - the brakes on my demo bike were fantastic and in my view the riding position isnt that much different from my 2019 bike (im 6ft 3) and if its a problem, get a GILLE rearset when they come out in a few months, and I think the 'fun factor' with the RR-R is just next level - its much more involving that any other 1000cc bike ive ridden in the last 5 years - and its super smooth with precision fuelling..Its exactly what a lot of people were saying the blade has been missing for years. Honda never seem to win with the reviewers - probably why the RR is still for sale as the 'super sport road bike' while the RR-R is just designed to be crazy! The front end on the RR-R is absolutely mind blowing you can take liberties with it you wouldn't believe- I am pretty sure the winglets didn't do much at the speed I was riding it, but that Ohlins suspension is just incredible - it feels better to me than the R1M i rode a few months ago and its basically the same system (apart from the Honda dash configurations).

[@bellicromanx]

@@theonlyredspecial Thanks for the detailed response. Also congrats on the new blade. Didn't know SP was available in black. I'm drooling now.

[@theonlyredspecial]

@@bellicromanx Thanks, yeah ive a video of it on my channel with the 250 limited edition carbon kit on it and some evotech stuff too. If you ever do get a demo, make sure you put it in track mode, or better still, select mode 2 for sports, and push down on the buttons to turn power from 2 to 1. as you will get the full engine power, but with some traction control (5). a little bit safer for the roads in the UK.

[@bellicromanx]

@@theonlyredspecial Sure. I'll keep that in mind when I look for a test ride once this COVID pain dies down. Let me go through your videos and drool for now ;)

[@ninadganore]

double R for the road, triple R for the track

[@lucasramon1632]

E para rua ????

[@jfro5867]

Not into sports bikes but nevertheless enjoyed listening to this. I like this style of review BTW.

[@arhpg]

A little late in commenting, but this evaluation was masterfully done by Michael Neeves. He covered the most important aspects of quality, speed, comfort, cost and value in comparing these three superb liter-class sportbikes. His comparison places these bikes in the proper order of overall quality and purpose. Well done!

[@geewhite32]

I will think you will find he always does. Gee.

[@AlienSexGod]

I used to think I was quite vague but now I'm not too sure. Who won the shootout? I have listened twice now and it sounds like S1kRR is the winner you have when you don't have a winner?

[@plutonium9]

214 hp. "When you accelerate, it feels like a 600." Um, I'll take one of these 600's please.

[@BigUriel]

Really peaky engine + tall gearing = it probably does pull as hard as a 600 at low rpm.

[@pravesh736]

@@BigUriel it's been geared that way for euro 5 emissions. U can always go shorter. Reduce 1 tooth in front

[@R1ACE]

Indicated 186mph in 4th gear though... Americans would love that for their highway shenanigans

[@exothermal.sprocket]

It accelerates........eventually. Then you set fire to your driver's license.

[@BigUriel]

@@pravesh736 1 tooth would probably still not be enough to pull as hard as an S1000RR or V4S from down low. And the thing about gearing is you don't make any more power your just let the engine rev faster, you still end up with an engine that needs to be screaming past 6/8000rpm to really get going. It's fun on a trackday or a Sunday blast, it's annoying when you're cruising on the motorway or shifting through traffic, and kind of defeats the purpose of a liter bike over a supersport for the road which is supposed to be the extra low end torque.

[@cvi.lanell_2438]

Everything about the Ducati is so absolutely true. After owning my V4S for a few months now and 3 track days on it best bike ever. The looks alone make it worth every single penny. As far as power goes there is never enough track/road. Can't wait to try out some SC1 slicks. I'm curious to see how the 2020 Aprilia RSV4 1100 Factory compares to all the other bikes.

[@spbub]

Agree 100%. The V4S is so much more than just a machine. I absolutely love mine ❤

[@cvi.lanell_2438]

SP Bub are you in the SoCal area by any chance? Always looking for more riding buddies.

[@spbub]

@@cvi.lanell_2438 Ah, I wish my friend. I'm in the UK, unfortunately!

[@clashcityrocker2051]

SP Bub ... unfortunately?.... you should be proud!!!😉

[@spbub]

@@clashcityrocker2051 Not much to be proud of at the moment Dude. Unfortunate that I don't live in SoCal! Still, every time I press that starter button, my Pani makes everything better.

[@clashcityrocker2051]

It’s gonna be like school sports day......, they’re all winners😂

[@bernhtp]

Brilliant review. at 6'2" and 210 lbs, the BMW RR was the bike for me. I've had it for almost a year and 10,000 miles. My best and most fun purchase ever.

[@davidebbs2797]

I highly doubt the SC82 will be held in the same regard in 30 years as the RC30 is today. May well be a different story if Kunamoto brought a new V4 onto the showfloor 👍

[@exothermal.sprocket]

I noticed Neeves never mentioned a severe torque dip with the BMW. I realized he was speaking about the Euro version ECU, not the USA version ECU that has to be reprogrammed to make the bike worth buying.

[@depress0coffee]

@@exothermal.sprocket Well he is from the UK so...

[@Jtanman93]

@@exothermal.sprocket you have 1000's of cookie cutter USA bike vloggers. Go watch them

[@bernhtp]

@@exothermal.sprocket Everyone in the US gets theirs flashed to more than just remedy the regulatory restriction. It's quick, easy and not that expensive in the grand scheme of things. I see no reason why anyone brings this up.

[@michaeljkasnter]

I absolutely love how docile the FireBlade is below 5k rpm, easy to cruise around town and listening to it purr!! But start to pick up the revs and it’s like being shot from a cannon till 11,000-rpm then it hits again all the way till redline!!! The sounds are intoxicating!!!! Phenomenal handling also!!! Ohlins is insanely good!!!

[@kel1481]

299 gear 4th lol powahhh !!!!

[@colinpirie8403]

Was hoping for a improvement in the Brakes as I had the same problem with the 17 blade . I ended up changing the brake master cylinder to a Brembo 19 RCS which improved the feel, then bypassed the ABS since its spends 80% of it’s time at the track.

[@whiteboiwyatt]

How do you like it man? I’d love one of these brand new cbr1000s but the price is obscene! And lately ive seen the prev gen cbr (the one you got) going for as low as 10k at dealerships. What’s your honest opinion on the bike man? I have a Cbr600rr for my race bike but im looking for a 1000 as a street bike that i can also take to the track

[@colinpirie8403]

whiteboiwyatt I went from a ZX6R to the blade and it handles better goes further on less gas , lean angle is great and keeps up with other superbikes Now I got the brakes sorted I really enjoy it . I did add a double bubble screen for the track and quick shifter. Take one for a test ride.

[@robertomelendez6013]

Great review. I’m glad you made sure to mention the advantages of street vs race bike. Leg room is huge. It seems like the manufacturers design these bikes for shorter riders.

[@aljaztrdina142]

I really have my eyes on the CBR. What a bike!

[@stichupman]

This is the best looking fireblade for a long time I think. Normally I find hondas dull but this one is lush. Cant afford it though lol.

[@ijasmohammed5177]

@@stichupman 2020 fireblade is one of the fireblade honda released which can be compared to the europeans in terms of styling💯💯

[@stichupman]

@@ijasmohammed5177 I agree normally European bikes are light years ahead in every aspect including price haha

[@ijasmohammed5177]

@@stichupman But when it comes to reliability,they are still in BC days😂😂

[@stichupman]

@@ijasmohammed5177 yeah but we will gloss over that as they are pretty lol.

[@lambethlongshanks4791]

Excellent final word, Neevesy!

[@steve-wu7jp]

I agree the RSV4 should be in this test. I know it’s still an old platform but why ☹️

[@BrianFrichette]

My guess: Dealing with restrictions and limited resources. Can't review em all. In the same price bracket you have the R1M, after all. I don't think it would do well in a road test, but it's certainly worth the comparison.

[@alanhassall]

In some ways, they are all old platforms. Still forks, frames and swingarms. BMW, Yamaha and Honda seem to have experimented with alternatives, but, except in rare cases, they never seem to go anywhere. I remember a time when every BMW except for the 650 had an alternative to a fork. Now, they are the exception. They seem to have been relegated to touring bikes and ADV's. Oh well.

[@alanhassall]

In some ways, they are all old platforms. Still forks, frames and swingarms. BMW, Yamaha and Honda seem to have experimented with alternatives, but, except in rare cases, they never seem to go anywhere. I remember a time when every BMW except for the 650 had an alternative to a fork. Now, they are the exception. They seem to have been relegated to touring bikes and ADV's. Oh well.

[@DaveBibbs]

I’ve ridden them all back to back and the RSV4 is stand out the best. BMW is just boring.

[@exothermal.sprocket]

@@DaveBibbs Because "BRG-BRG-BRG-BRG-BRG-BRG-BRG" instead of "BZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ"?

[@thomaselli01]

Out of respect for Honda as a superbike brand i hoped the Fireblade would be the king of the test here. Although it performed strong, in 2020 it now has amazing European competition it didn’t have back in the days. BMW & Ducati have achieved a peak in engineering. Well done!

[@valkyrie4644]

BMWs have reliability issue especially the engine.

[@Tomygfender]

The BMW does it all and it ain’t boring as well 👍

[@mark675]

That blade sounds so good

[@75619630]

Personally i would take the BMW, even though i came here for the Honda. i want power through out the rev range which Honda lacks....

[@rssniff]

If you want power throughout the rev range, the BMW is the wrong bike. At least stock. That bike absolutely sucks up to about 9000 rpm's.

[@KimmyR3]

@@rssniff the EU version don't have that afaik

[@whiteboiwyatt]

R. S. Tbh i think any inline 4 is a bad choice if you’re looking for low-midrange torque, the only exception id make are the old japanese liter bikes from the late 90s to early 2000s because those had lower reving, longer stroke engines (perfect example: 2001-2004 gsxr 1000)

[@rssniff]

@@whiteboiwyatt my 2010 RR and 2016 RR had a lot more power down low than my 2020 RR. The 2020 is just a crap tune job from BMW and they have no plans to fix it.

[@ApeRiderr]

@@rssniff Its the US version, for some reason the emissions rules here made them detune it so its not able to utilize the shift cam tech. But if you get it remapped on the ECU it restores the midrange and adds a little over 40hp throughout the midrange.

[@ross5506]

These liter bikes are just to hard core for the streets today, am so happy got out of that pretzel feeling after 20 minutes. Got myself the 2020 KTM 1290 R Super Duke, loads of power, all day comfort.

[@prateekkolurmatada8679]

Best Road Bike - BMW. Track Machine - CBR. Wallpaper worthy - Ducati.

[@jellethegreatest]

Sums it up quite nice

[@Youtube_Globetrotter]

Your probaby right but at that level you probably be happy with any bike

[@BigUriel]

Those winglets look hideous though, obvious afterthought. I'd take them off before riding out of the dealership.

[@sk2283]

Road bike = Ducati Track Bike = Ducati Wallpaper (tank bike) = Ducati !

[@sk2283]

Please note autocorrect changed the W to a T !

[@AndrewBoundy]

It's a 3-bike comparison focused more on road useage I guess - not a "Superbike Shootout" per the title, which may leave people wondering where the other players are. Either way - MCN and Neevsey always deserve attention - proper expert moto journalists, not just the regular "paid spokespeople", and I always enjoy their content.

[@pramathewyayawar7857]

I would buy CBR just based on its looks alone. Reminds me so much of RC213V-S. Love it❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

[@JohnG-gu5wo]

😂

[@ankitshelke8637]

BMW lacks the emotion of Ducati and unparalleled refinement of Honda but it is a terrific VFM.

[@fredsmith3963]

I like that this didn't have every superbike under the sun included; that you just narrowed it down to the most similar bikes.

[@UvidCo]

Great post MCN.

[@Mcanozcelik]

In summary these bikes are better than 99.99% of riders ability and so a choice would come down to which feels best and which makes you smile the most.

[@gnarshread]

Love the RC30 reference. I had hoped the Honda would have got a better review. Also, I know 2 people who have received the new BMW and have had problems. The worst part is dealers are taking their sweet time even getting around to looking at their bikes.

[@jaybusa3302]

Ok so this was click bait because this was not a shootout by any stretch of the imagination......this was simply a blog review.....

[@UvidCo]

How is this a blog review? This is a professional who has ridden all of them on the street and track. Not someone who probably hasn't risen either of them or even a motorcycle at all, yet they post like they have while googling the specs and actual reviews of others.

[@jaybusa3302]

@@UvidCo if you go back into their videos where they have done shootouts before. You will be able to tell the difference and understand my statements

[@legendbourne5098]

Lol yup! Give him a thumbs down haha

[@Bark820]

@@UvidCo Leave the Indians alone, they think everything needs to be entertaining and drama. If they understood anything on the internet, the country would be far more different.

[@Mr.ZiggedWhenHeShouldaZagged]

He has a point, these bikes weren't ridden back to back in the same conditions, "this is how I felt about this one bike this one day, this is how I felt about this other bike another day somewhere else"

[@c.j.6616]

how do you guys deal with the v4s heat from the exhaust/engine? I rode one for about 25 minutes in 85 degree weather and I hated every minute of it because of how unbearably hot it gets. Is it just me or what?

[@ncsteeltoe]

Yeah reviewers never mention the thing is unbearable to ride. Great bikes unless you ride a lot.

[@gerardm7840]

Tested a 959 Panigale and my two eggs were basically cooking before I left the car park. was terrible

[@c.j.6616]

@@ncsteeltoe this is exactly true, I like the bike and would own one but you could only ride it in the winter honestly. even then I'd need like leg cooling pants or some water thing

[@BTrain-is8ch]

The solution on Panigales has always been ride faster or wear leather. Not a good bike for puttering around in traffic or in town.

[@c.j.6616]

@@BTrain-is8ch I rode with full rukka leathers and it definitely didn't help, I'd really only feel good on a track doing 100+ maybe even on the highway doing 80 it was awful

[@kevinclark6511]

Thing with road tester reviews is they always have to asses the package as a whole and base it on what they like and think a bike should do and have. For me a sports bike doesn't need heated grips, cruise control etc. I want it to be focused sharp and components that work on road but also can cope with track work. There's bikes like mt10, tuono v4 and a 1290 superduke for that. So the Honda could easily be the best most focused sports bike.

[@spenkystar]

Have to agree on this one for sure!

[@ridered6271]

Great vid. The Cbr looks mean. Dibbs!

[@matteobagni8072]

Why not use the V4R instead of the V4S since the other bikes are the top of the range models?

[@geoffwatches]

Cheers kneevsey - always look forward to these. Nice boots. However "the exhaust note sounds fantastic" then 'neeeee'. Needs a can.

[@Driftuner]

Since i wouldnt be doing track days anyway, my choice for street riding would still be the VFR800....more comfortable than any of these and plenty fast enough really...

[@beanwithbaconmegarocket]

love the viffer, i just get a little tired of pushing it around my driveway. she's a heavy girl when sitting still. when i'm riding, very nimble tho

[@fyorbane]

Needs an update. Less weight and more power. It's outclassed by the excellent Kawasaki Z1000SX Ninja.

[@Driftuner]

@@fyorbane yeah yeah...thats the solution for everything right?! Ive ridden both and they really cant be compared...two very distinct bikes..

[@HankOnWheels]

A VFR800? I loved that bike, but they stopped making it in 2009, right? What's the closest current model of that? A CBR650R? No thanks.

[@Driftuner]

@@HankOnWheels where i live you can still buy the VFR800 brand new

[@guelangel90]

CBR600RR-R 2021 will be the best compromise in track and daily use. Maybe next 2021...

[@ehsan83]

does Honda come with cruise control and heated grips? Is it possible to change those foot pegs to make more room for legs? Thanks

[@lupreztryson]

It’s a fucking superbike not a goldwing tourer

[@drjones694]

Thank you for this Street review. as you said most will be ride these on the street not track nice to hear a more honest review and expectations

[@RiotHRC]

as a 5"10'' gal, the blade fits me perfectly. Ive got a cbr1000rr already, and I wouldnt trade it for the world. Cant wait to upgrade to the triple r sp in a few years though, thing looks absolutely beautiful

[@reubengangte1350]

thanks...been waiting for this review

[@TheCenturion8404]

EXCELLENT REVIEW!

[@angelocardoc]

I'm listening to Mr Neeves and I get the impression he's not very fond of the Honda. Maybe even a hate on for it. Until his last line 12:48

[@azhariqbal1212]

My thoughts as well, as if he was paid late to say anything good about Honda Lol.

[@joelowen5388]

That because his race bike is a BMW s1000

[@arifmuhammed4u]

felt the same,😂

[@rabidev.4938]

What did he say bro? I can't understand it properly.

[@angelocardoc]

@@rabidev.4938 English accent is so heavy...wish Mr Neeves would speak with an American accent...Y'all

[@Bikeadelic]

Omg I’ve been waiting for this!!!

[@OFallons]

I agree with you wholeheartedly ! , I am most incredibly pleased and impressed with my 2020 Panigale V4S, I have been riding for 53 years. Yes cruse Control would be a great benefit.

[@angelocardoc]

9:13 Is it just me or do I see that front fork a little leaky??

[@rogase68]

Its grease in the fork sliders they are all like that. Agree no other bike I've had was like that

[@pravesh736]

The new BMW leaks from everywhere, brakes coolant forks

[@angelocardoc]

@@pravesh736 BMW car or motorcycle?

[@pravesh736]

@@angelocardoc bike

[@rssniff]

@@pravesh736 haven't heard of the coolant leak before.

[@marcusbarnes5929]

Does the ducati V4 cook the seat?

[@michaeljkasnter]

We want more, this was short

[@n300zx931]

I’ve now seen the new Honda 1000rr-r with a tune. 200hp to the rear wheel. Crazy bike!

[@itsmeee7364]

Who wants better roadbike simply goes to nakeds. panigale v4 is very distinct and a lot more desirable then the fireblade it's huge step forward then last gen ,the current one is simply mind-blowing

[@gmc3578]

that new Honda is pretty insane!!

[@germanbeer2466]

Great review

[@ridingcoupe8560]

Wonderful video, Great details 👌🏽

[@أحمدالمحروقي-ج8ظ]

very informative. I like how he describes how the bikes feel.

[@marmoot]

Good review, lots of "what it feels like". I like!!

[@poorpossum79]

Boom at the end there mate. I just saw an RC30 for sale for $50k!

[@imranfotography]

Wow. Great review. Thanks for such effort u put to make the video. 🙏😇 great respect 🫡

[@minatormyth]

Loved it, thanks 🤗

[@RRSmurf]

I'm a bit of a Honda guy, but as a very average-skilled, very inflexible 6'1" chubby Boi with a Ducati-unfriendly wallet, the BMW for me. Easily.

[@DaveBibbs]

RRSmurf bmw is boring. I’ve ridden them all back to back. No idea why the RSV4 isn’t on here but that’s head and shoulders better than the rest.

[@RRSmurf]

@@DaveBibbs I've ridden the 2018 BMW and RSV4... Was uncomfortable on the Aprilia and nothing about the BMW was boring imo. I'm more of a naked bike guy since my back op, so yeah.

[@DaveBibbs]

RRSmurf weird. I’m 6ftvtall and find the Aprilia way more comfortable than the beemer

[@RRSmurf]

Okay.

[@lambethlongshanks4791]

I'm 6ft3 and sitting on the Honda was painful. I may sue them for assault.

[@sidsmith8251]

I’ve been waiting on this KZbin vid all year lol

[@Chenzooo]

I want the fireblade. Please start the production.

[@SuperbikeDiscovery]

What a great video, ive always thought your the best on reviews. At 5:41 I almost had a heart attack, then I remembered where you're from...

[@the_tube]

So the Fireblade is best suited to track work but is potentially too loud to pass noise tests at most tracks. Poorly thought out surely?

[@Bikeadelic]

Great work Neeves as always! One day I’ll have the money to pick a bike like these. Right now I am a bit of a biemmer boy!

[@fadhanis309]

why did they change the fireblade 2017-2019 outlook 😢

[@ModernScop3z]

Because this firebird makes 214 horsepower and is just as light as the last one🤣

[@kasztan2008]

no Aprilia ? delete and record this again

[@edweston8044]

I'd like to see a 6-800cc V4 Ducati. I see some comments on the heat coming off the V4 engine. I usually put on a riding suit to take my 748 out cause it also gets very hot. This maybe a tradition for some Ducati's. One complaint on the big V4 was that the rear tire would send road water though the seat to you butt. Have they changed that?

[@justa_dude]

Love my 2020 s1000rr

[@pranavbhandari9430]

clear distinction in all 3

[@slhi808]

9:14, are the fork seals on the BMW leaking already? 🧐

[@rssniff]

BMW says that is normal :) Calipers are probably leaking too

[@slhi808]

@@rssniff 😂 that seems like a very Italian response from a German manufacturer. Pretty sure Ducati told me the same thing when my plastic tank started leaking gas on to my cylinder head.

[@ravenmoto5948]

Don't see that but the Hayes calipers are known to leak on this bike. Bmw went cheap and ditched the Brembos

[@michelhadid]

Really wanna see official dyno figure on the dyno.

[@fireblade_ninja308]

All these new superbikes are gorgeous 😍 can't really pick on over the other, they all way too good for an average rider so it come down to personal preference. For me it has to be the Ducati cos of how it makes me feel, that's what makes it special for me.

[@itsmeericb]

Awesome review of these bikes. I am looking at all three of these bikes and this helps my decision a lot!

[@R.Stridstrom]

Look at the GSXR1000R too. Depending on what you want. In words put out by some tuber who compared it to the beamer (over time), it shreds even harder. Especially down low. Could be a worthwhile examine?

[@itsmeericb]

Robert Stridström That’s funny because I have a newer GSXR 1000! 😄 Not the R but the same model. R only had better suspension and quick shifter. I love mine but it needs to be tuned to really rip. As far as a track bike the Honda and the Ducati are better weapons.

[@samiam5326]

Hi Michael, thank you for another excellent explanation of the differences between these amazing sports bikes. I was wondering if you could help me please? I’m in the market for a new bike. Mostly for city community and a bit of two-up day touring. I currently enjoy riding a V-Strom 650, but it’s a bit under-braked with a passenger and I’d also like a little more grunt and cruise control. I’ve got it down to three bikes that I think would suit my needs. Suzuki V-Strom 1050 XT, Kawasaki Ninja 1000 SX and the BMW F900XR. If you could only have one as an only bike, what would be your pick be? Thank you for your time.

[@pablononpicasso1977]

Interesting-ng-ng! I think the BMW has this test for road use. How long will it be before a TFT is replaced by a Smart Phone Synced mount for the dash dial? Me thinks not too far off.

[@dfernandes33]

Ducati all the way

[@brucekendall52]

Outstanding analysis,thk you.JHB-SA.

[@andrew_v4s]

Great review as per usual and I like the way it is compared in context as a road bike. I've owned the new S1000RR for around 6 months now and my sentiment is exactly as described! Brilliant road bike and yes, maybe it lacks some of those special feels that the Ducati dishes out, but if you enjoy going out for a "decent" road ride or road trip it is an incredible bike. Shame to hear about the downsides to the new Honda as a roadie. Looking forward to seeing how it goes in WSBK however!

[@TrainsOnGoPro]

I'm still happy with My 1299 had it since 2015.

[@mmotorcycles9497]

How could you not be happy with the 1299 such a beautiful bike.

[@georgialions]

And you've been on fire since 2015 too because the heat coming from that bike.. hell no!

[@andyperks1878]

I was going to buy a gen4 s1k but they fall to bits so bought a gen3 and love it

[@stephanest-pierre7646]

GÉNÉRATION 3 LOURD ET PEU RAPIDE ,ELECTRONIQUE D ANCIENNE GÉNÉRATION EN GROS DÉSUÈTE ,J AI UNE GENERATION 4 DEPUIS 10 000 K M ZÉRO PROBLÈME ET QUELLE MACHINE DE GUERRE

[@nadpad-4192]

Where did you hear that?

[@findingneutral426]

Sadly true

[@burntavocado5033]

Where did you hear that, I've never heard of that? What are some of the common issues besides 'falling to bits'

[@RobimusPrime]

Fall to bits? Explains

[@pdark3930]

The sound the Honda makes its just beautiful!

[@benyaboss]

Where is the RSV4? The other Japanese bikes? I know they aren't all new for 2020, but I bet the Aprilia would still win the test.

[@frankymacf]

The Aprilia was third behind the BWM and the Ducati in MCN’s 2019 test so makes sense for it to be replaced by the Honda.

[@GoVols2015]

It’s in the shop getting worked on.

[@AM-nk7it]

This is 2020 . NOT 2015

[@benyaboss]

@@GoVols2015 I've owned multiple Aprilias since 2002, always reliable. You're perpetuaing an urban legend and fake news.

[@Guizas]

@@benyaboss this is a road test, the Aprilia is amazing on the track and it would probably beat all 3 of these but on the road it wont.

[@randyheiser5367]

Honda exhaust is eargasm.

[@gsxrfrank8787]

I honestly think Honda is the clear winner here.....don’t get me wrong all the bikes listed on here are awesome and are amazing motorcycles. But the Honda just looks way better and plus the maintenance down the road will be a lot cheaper than the bmw and Ducati

[@gountzas]

Verdict is here: Fireblade for a day S1k RR for everyday V4S for toasted balls

[@yassirbelarabi1686]

2020 is crazy, a panigale becomes more street focused than a CBR.. And covid of course..

[@rabidev.4938]

I don't know why everybody are complaining about Honda's lack of low end power. Have you guys never ridden a 600 before? Just downshift one or two gears and get in the rev range. I makes up for it very well in the top end.

[@PEZ1514]

I have a MT09 and want to get a sportbike instead. Should I go 600 or 1000 or 750 suzuki? Anyone know how the MT09 throttle sensitivity compares to other sport bikes?

[@idkmankindawack]

600rr is solid all around and holds its’ own till 160 with even newer ones especially tuned

[@idkmankindawack]

Don’t get a new one though they have wack motors 04-07 is great

[@panmaew]

Alvaro Bautista once said to the press the new CBR as he was riding in the WSBK felt almost like a two-stroke bike in its response and other characteristics. Well that could be a killer if you can keep the engine in the upper rev range most of the time and have the means to control the bike when the actual power comes on. Other than that I am afraid the outgoing version of the CBR would be a much better road bike.

[@Tracked350Z]

When do you ever ride below 5500 rpm? Leaving a stoplight?

[@chrischa8974]

when you have a non weed wacker and dont need to drop 3 gears and scream to make any power...

[@Moicc]

Some people ride twisty and mountain roads, not just highways and open roads like i assume that you do

[@Tracked350Z]

@@Moicc even then how often are you at or under 5500 rpm? I do it all. Track days, backroads, twisties, mountains, freeways. Rarely ever under 5500 rpm. Unless it's a very tight 1st gear hairpin which is rare.

[@thesled]

So the blade is pretty much useless for the UK market compared to the others. It’s a track focused bike that is too cramped for the road but will be lucky to pass noise limits for most Uk tracks.

[@ThiefOfNavarre]

That's the impression i got. Shame

[@beauzo9965]

Wait what? The cbr would be too loud for a track day.🤪 How could that be when its OK for street use I'd love to see a comparison on fairing removal/replacement

[@HeyAddieImTojo]

Depends on where you live i guess. 103dB is legal on the street where i live (measured 1m from the exhaust i think) but many tracks have a 90dB limit

[@rogase68]

@@HeyAddieImTojo is that at idle or certain RPM

[@HeyAddieImTojo]

rogase68 don’t know about the track but i would guess at flybys since the people complaining are the ones living close to the track. Street use they just test idle and a little tiny rev

[@archiewilson4943]

That's just in UKanistan. If you live elsewhere don't worry about it.

[@BrettJoy]

Didn't do the rc30 any harm 👌

[@rkulkarni12]

So figuratively the New BMW is the old Honda. Sits somewhere comfortably....

[@killatrix5668]

Got over 4k miles on my 2020 gsxr 1000r ill take the best road liter bike with torque and top end. You can keep the track only supersports. I can spend hours on my twisty mountain roads where i live.

[@yonniboy1]

The RR-R Blade is a thing of beauty but as a middle aged biker and the previous owner of three Blades between 1992 and 2012 I found it a torture implement on the 90 minute demo ride, Ride magazine done a comparison road test with the 2011 Blade and the RR-R SP and as road bikes gave the 2011 bike 9 out of 10 and the RR-R just 7.

[@deanbatley4142]

Wait no Rsv4 1100 or R1m . Pretty stupid

[@bigandy234]

The Blade is back!

[@craigfzr]

The BMW has a leaking fork seal?

[@ReferenceFidelityComponents]

No rsv4 or R1?