VOLUME 56 ISSUE 22 JUNE 4, 2019 P63
We'll start with the things that I really liked during
my time with the SP, and then move onto stuff that
drove me a little nuts.
First up, that motor is a gem of a thing. It has a
beautifully smooth, buxom torque curve, with no real
hit of power but strong drive from 3000 rpm, right
through to the 13,000 rpm redline. That makes for a
splendid street bike motor, as you don't need to go
racing up and down the gearbox to get meaningful
drive. The throttle connection, too, is excellent. Beau-
tifully mapped, the CBR's deft throttle allows you to
easily dial in tiny throttle increments while on the side
of the tire. This also helps in stop/start traffic, making
for a smooth ride in rush hour in L.A.
You can't do
long wheelies on
the CBR thanks
to the wheelie
control, but you
can sure do
short ones!