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Comparison test: Honda Fireblade from 2006 and 2010

Honda Fireblade: old versus new

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The fact that Honda’s Fireblade strikes a hard blade was often felt by their competition. But what happens when she competes against herself? A battle old against new.

Each time the model changes, the question arises again: What can the successor do better than her ancestor?? Of course, that is also of interest to Honda’s Fireblade, Germany’s best-selling super sports car in recent years. From 1999 to 2009 inclusive, 29,208 new fire blades changed hands – a lonely record. PS lets the two youngest models compete against each other. The Blade from 2006 (SC 57) and the SC 59 from 2010 enter the ring.

L.Honda launched the latter in 2008 as a completely new design. Just one year later, it rolled out onto the road with the revolutionary Sport ABS, and for 2010 the Honda engineers refined their latest superbike. More flywheel mass on the alternator rotor and the consequently more stable crankshaft should improve the throttle response. Otherwise it is satisfied with minor modifications: redesigned rear with clear glass taillight, removable license plate holder, screwed exhaust cover, different fairing design.

In 2004, the SC 57 intervened in super sports events. Fireblades have only had full liters of displacement since then. Two years later it underwent fundamental technical and visual changes that correspond to the latest expansion stage and thus the status of the PS test machine. Thanks go to the Stauch company from Filderstadt near Stuttgart. She supplied the editorial staff with Fireblades from 2006 and 2008. A box on page 27 describes the driving differences between the latter and her sister from 2010.

Contrary to expectations, the new one can do a lot, but not everything better. A look at the performance diagram provides the proof. The older Blade is ahead up to medium speeds, the gaps of 4000 rpm are particularly serious. There the fighters separate up to 10 HP and 17 Nm. The much-cited performance drop in the current Fireblade in this area continues to slow it down drastically. Anyone who romps in these regions needs a hard-working shift foot for intermediate sprints. Resourceful contemporaries hang out the trains of the exhaust cylinder. "This reduces the drop in performance by around 70 percent", as a Honda intimate reveals. The insider continues: "In order to smooth the curve completely, you have to intervene in the electronics of the ignition / injection system." Needless to say, the ABE expires with each of these measures. But the tips are always good for occasional trips out on the race.

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Two fireblades, one mission: fire until you drop. The SC 57 puts a lot of pressure on its young sister on country roads.

The older Fire Blade, on the other hand, does not need such manipulations. It shoots through the rev range without any loss of performance and, in combination with its much shorter gear ratio, is very dynamic at all times. So it happens that the current Blade slides off at the exit of tight bends and stays with its stronger sister for a few tenths of a second during the sprint from 0 to 200 km / h. Their hour only strikes from medium speeds. More clearly than the diagram shows, the SC 59 delivers wonderful lard from 7000 rpm and shoots itself and its pilot into seventh motorcycle heaven.

When it comes to running smoothness, they don’t give each other anything, both the SC 57 and its successor run a bit rough and sometimes vibrate noticeably. Both jump on the gas very spontaneously. Despite the modifications mentioned above, the 2010 blade does not have any significant advantages when it comes to load changes. Pleasing: Both transmissions work excellently.

With the SC 59, the sportiest Fireblade of all time rocks in the world of superbikes. Front-wheel-oriented seating position, stiff chassis, compact appearance: no other Blade has dared to compromise like this before. That plays into the cards of the pilot during sporty filing. The 2010 blade provides excellent feedback and is extremely stable around corners. At least we have flat stretch. It stands up a little on bumps in bends and therefore requires a little effort from the pilot when sharpening bends on wrinkled asphalt. Despite their tight coordination, the fork and shock absorber respond well.

In this point the SC 57 easily keeps up. Their spring elements also absorb fissures very sensitively. Difference: The basic setup of the damping turned out to be much more comfortable, which is why there is always a little too much movement in the ancestor with sharpened Halali. Another undercarriage phenomenon caused a stir on some SC 57 in the past: fork flutter. These are sometimes strong horizontal vibrations that could arise in certain braking situations – mostly abrupt, strong decelerations – and disturb the entire front structure. Honda responded with duller brake pads on affected machines, which significantly reduced the chatter, but did not always completely stop it. If you want to grab a second-hand SC 57, you should check it for this peculiarity.

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Ultimately, the new Honda Fireblade has the edge.

Back to the test. The SC 57 pounds around the radii like a whirlwind: bend, shoot, done. The older Fireblade masters this discipline better than the current one. Why? The tires play a large part in this. Unlike the SC 59, the older superbike rolls on retrofit rubbers. The Michelin Pilot Power enjoys almost cult status in the scene thanks to its incredible handiness and problem-free driving behavior. Perfectionists complain about the slightly nervous turning behavior. In addition to the tires, the SC 57 also benefits from its weight being four kilograms lower (205 to 209 kilograms).

The extra pounds of the new ones go to the account of ABS – it weighs a full ten kilograms. For the surcharge of 1000 euros, sports fans can order this anti-lock device that works perfectly in public areas. On the race, however, professionals anchor more effectively on the last groove on dry slopes without the system. ABS yes or no – this question does not arise with the SC 57. When it was built, super sports cars still got by without driver assistance systems. As with its younger relative, the brakes of the 2006 Fireblade bite hard, are extremely easy to dose and inspire with incredible transparency.

Conclusion: Despite its uncompromising orientation, the SC 59 is highly suitable for everyday use and wins the duel. Their weaknesses: sagging around 4000 rpm and cornering behavior on bumps. The SC 57 with its different tires masters both disciplines better. Anyone who can do without ABS and only shoots on country roads still has a powerful burner with the fire blade from 2006.

1st place: Honda Fireblade SC 59

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Honda Fireblade SC 59 (17 of 20 stars)

Category engine:
In contrast to the SC 57 drive, the current engine develops its power: poor in the lower speed range, top from 7000 rpm. Hard throttle response.

4 out of 5 stars

Category chassis:
With the C-ABS, the SC 59 has an ace up its sleeve. Tight, responsive spring elements. The 2010 Blade stands up on bumps in curves.

4 out of 5 stars

Category ergonomics:
On the current Blade, pilots sit comfortably but still very active. Because of this, and because of the more relaxed knee angle, she taps all five stars.

4 out of 5 stars

Category driving fun:
Super punch from 7000 rpm, crisp chassis, great ABS: the Blade captivates its drivers. The performance drop of 4000 rpm has a disruptive effect.

4 out of 5 stars

PS judgment:
Of course, the victory of the SC 59 is not completely surprising. It’s the more modern and sportier bike that doesn’t lack very much to achieve perfection.

2nd place: Honda Fireblade SC 57 (15 out of 20 stars)

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Honda Fireblade SC 57

Category engine:
A lot of pressure in the lower speed range, in the upper regions there is a little less dynamism. Abrupt throttle response, average smoothness. Fantastic transmission.

4 out of 5 stars

Category chassis:
On the Michelins, the SC 57 peppers lightly around the corners. Comfortable basic tuning of the spring elements, great response. No ABS.

3 out of 5 stars

Category ergonomics:
Like most Hondas, the blade from 2006 offers a comfortable sitting position. Despite all the comfort, the ergonomics are also good for heating.

4 out of 5 stars

Category driving fun
Wonderful: poke boldly into the corners, shoot out at the corner exit, enjoy the lightness of this blade. Rough engine, lots of movement in the bike.

4 out of 5 stars

PS judgment:
With just two points behind its younger sister, the SC 57 lands in second place. Which proves: it easily keeps up with everyday sporting activities.

Technical specifications

Drawing: archive

Performance graph of the old and new Fireblade.

Thanks to the somewhat shorter-stroke design compared to its predecessor, the SC 59 rotates higher than the SC 57. The increased ease of rotation is largely due to its additional output of five hp. From 7000 rpm, the younger blade fires so much that the pilot almost bends the handlebars. Up to the brand mentioned, the older model is ahead; it generates significantly more power and torque, especially around 4000 rpm. This is noticeable when driving, especially from tight first-gear corners she sprints much more energetically. In this exercise, the SC 57 also benefits from its gear ratio, which is much shorter than that of the SC 59. Each of them shows its strengths, which ultimately means that their performance is very close to one another.

Honda Fireblade SC 57

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Honda SC 57: young and wild.

Drive:
Four-cylinder in-line engine, 4 valves / cylinder, 126.4 kW (172 HP) at 11,250 / min *, 115 Nm at 10,000 / min *, 998 cm³, bore / stroke: 75.0 / 56.5 mm, compression ratio: 12.2: 1, ignition / injection system, 44 mm throttle valves, hydraulically operated multi-disc oil bath clutch, six-speed gearbox, G-Kat

Landing gear:
Light alloy bridge frame, steering head angle: 66.8 degrees, caster: 100 mm, wheelbase: 1400 mm, upside-down fork, Ø fork inner tube: 43 mm, adjustable in spring base, rebound and compression stage, central spring strut with lever system, adjustable in spring base, Compression and rebound, spring travel v./h .: 120/135 mm

Wheels and brakes:
Light alloy cast wheels, 3.50 x 17 / 6.00 x 17, front tires: 120/70 ZR 17, rear: 190/50 ZR 17, test tires: Michelin Pilot Power. 320 mm double disc brake with radially screwed four-piston fixed calipers at the front, 220 mm single disc with single-piston floating caliper at the rear

Measurements and weight:
Length / width / height: 2035/795/1115 mm, seat / handlebar height: 810/855 mm, handlebar width: 655 mm, 205 kg fully fueled, v./h .: 51.1 / 48.9%

Rear wheel power in last gear:
114 kW (155 PS) at 257 km / h

Performance:
Acceleration 0-100 / 150/200 km / h: 3.3 / 5.2 / 7.8 s
Pulling speed 50-100 / 100-150 km / h: 4.6 / 3.9 s

Top speed: 287 km / h *

Consumption:
Fuel type: Super unleaded. Average test consumption: 6.2 liters / 100 km, tank capacity / of which reserve 18/4 liters, range: 290 km

Base price 2006: 13,190 euros (plus ancillary costs)

Honda Fireblade SC 59

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Honda SC 59: Sport at its best.

Drive:
Four-cylinder in-line engine, 4 valves / cylinder, 131 kW (178 PS) at 11,200 / min *, 112 Nm at 8500 / min *, 1000 cm³, bore / stroke: 76.0 / 55.1 mm, compression ratio: 12, 3: 1, ignition / injection system, 46 mm throttle valves, mechanically operated multi-disc oil bath anti-hopping clutch, six-speed gearbox, G-Kat

Landing gear:
Light alloy bridge frame, steering head angle: 66.8 degrees, caster: 96 mm, wheelbase: 1410 mm, upside-down fork, Ø fork inner tube: 43 mm, adjustable in spring base, rebound and compression stage, central spring strut with deflection , adjustable in spring base, Rebound and compression stage, front / rear suspension travel: 120/135 mm

Wheels and brakes:
Light alloy cast wheels, 3.50 x 17 / 6.00 x 17, front tires: 120/70 ZR 17, rear: 190/50 ZR 17. First tires: Bridgestone BT 015 "F.". 320 mm double disc brake with four-piston fixed calipers at the front, 220 mm single-disc brake with single-piston floating caliper at the rear

Measurements and weight:
Length / width / height: 2090/830/1130 mm, seat / handlebar height: 815/860 mm, handlebar width: 650 mm, 209 kg fully fueled, v./h .: 51.8 / 48.2%

Rear wheel power in last gear:
117.6 kW (160 PS) at 255 km / h

Performance:
Acceleration 0-100 / 150/200 km / h: 3.2 / 5.1 / 7.5 s
Thrust 50-100 / 100-150 km / h: 4.5 / 3.6 s

Top speed: 293 km / h *

consumption:
Fuel type: Super unleaded. Average test consumption: 6.4 liters / 100 km. Tank capacity 17.7 liters, range: 276 km.

Base price: 14,990 euros (plus ancillary costs), C-ABS surcharge: 1,000 euros

SC 59 from 2008 and 2010

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Except for anchoring (no ABS), the first SC 59 masters everything as well as the 2010 Blade.

The biggest difference between the first SC 59 from 2008 and the current model concerns the brakes. From model year 2009, the Combined ABS, which is subject to a surcharge, contributes to both active and passive safety on country roads. Active because it reliably prevents the wheels from locking. Of course, this also applies to emergency braking and jumps in the road’s friction coefficient. With this certainty, you can heat freely, which benefits passive safety. Professional sports drivers who are able to push their physical limits on racetracks don’t need ABS. On the contrary: the system surprises in the absolute limit range with sometimes quite pronounced control intervals.

The SC 59 weighs ten kilograms less without ABS. However, the 2008 blade cannot benefit from this reduced weight. Apparently, Honda succeeded in integrating the heavy system in such a way that handiness does not suffer. On the other hand, the changes in the flywheel mass of the 2010 blade, which has increased by almost seven percent, are ineffective. Honda expects a better throttle response from this modification. But the load changes of the current fire blade are still quite clear. The remaining differences: shape of the rear, removable license plate holder, design.

Used purchase

Both Fireblades shine with the proverbial Honda reliability. However, buyers of a SC 57 should check whether the fork flutter mentioned in the main text occurs. To do this, accelerate quickly to around 60 km / h in first gear so that the fork can be seen to rebound. Then quickly take off the gas and pull the brake lever briefly but firmly (attention: no ABS!). Then quickly release the brake and immediately decelerate again. Repeat this process a few times. If fork flutter occurs: Stay away from this bike!

With the SC 59 from 2008, make sure that the retrofitting actions for coupling parts and the clamps for the radiator hoses have been carried out. Otherwise, the usual checks are sufficient: general condition of the machine, customer services performed, tire wear, fall damage or accidents, number of previous owners.

In the box on the right there is a list of the individual years of construction with the respective kilometer and price ranges. The figures represent mean values ​​that vary both upwards and downwards. Since there were model changes or far-reaching changes to be made in 2004, 2006 and 2008, interested parties should ensure that the model is up to date when checking the offers. In addition to the specialist magazines (example: PS, MOTORRAD), sellers also offer their machines on the Internet. Here is a selection: www.1000ps.de/gebrauchte-motorraeder; mobile.de; motoscout24.de.

SC 57:
2004
Average mileage: 15,000 – 25,000 kilometers
Price range: 5800 – 6500 euros

2005
Average mileage: 10,000 – 15,000 kilometers
Price range: 7,000 – 7,500 euros

2006
Average mileage: 5,000 – 15,000 kilometers
Price range: 7,500 – 8,000 euros

2007
Average mileage: 6,000 – 17,000 kilometers
Price range: 8,000 – 8,500 euros

SC 59:
2008
Average mileage: 8,000 kilometers
Price range: around 9,000 euros

2009
Average mileage: 3000 kilometers
Price range: around 12,500 euros (including ABS)

Fireblade SC 28 1992-1995

archive

Fireblade SC 28 1992-1995

The extraordinary success story of the Honda superbikes begins with the SC 28. When it rolled out onto the market in 1992, it was the first machine to combine the weight of a 600 with the power of a thousand. With a full tank of only 207 kilograms and 124 hp when open, it ironed out the competition in its first year. The only drawback: sluggish cornering behavior due to the 16-inch front wheel with 130 mm slippers.

Data:
Displacement: 893 cm3
Power / torque: 124 hp / 91 Nm
price: from 19,250 marks
Units sold: 9734

archive

Fireblade SC 33 1996-1999

Fireblade SC 33 1996-1999
Extensive modifications to the engine and chassis made the CBR 900 RR even more powerful from 1996. More displacement, higher performance, slightly lower weight: The Fireblade was still at the forefront. Nevertheless, the strengthened competition put them in their place time and again. The SC 33 celebrated its greatest success in the first year when it won a concept comparison with ten machines. 

Data:
Displacement: 919 cm3
Power / torque: 128 hp / 91 Nm
Price: from 20,290 marks
Units sold: 11.307

archive

Fireblade SC 44 2000-2001

Fireblade SC 44 2000-2001
The Japanese have finally given the Fireblade a 17-inch front wheel. In addition, it got a new frame, an upside-down fork and a long, reinforced swing arm. Honda also upgraded the engine: injection, more displacement, higher compression. The SC 44 has a nominal output of 147 hp. In terms of the year it is still the most successful Fireblade in Germany with 3,123 units sold.

Data:
Displacement: 929 cm3
Power / torque: 147 hp / 100 Nm
price: from 22,190 marks
Units sold: 6247

Fireblade SC 50 2002-2003

archive

Fireblade SC 50 2002-2003
Just two years later, Honda feels the SC 50 into the race. As so often the premise was: stronger, lighter, faster. The blade gained a dubious reputation due to a sometimes violent kickback. Instead of retrofitting a steering damper, Honda set the steering head bearing tighter – not a very elegant solution. In various comparison tests against strong competitors, however, it always subscribed to the top places. 

Data:
Displacement: 954 cm3
Power / torque: 150 HP / 104 Nm
price: from 12 590 euros
Units sold: 5241

archive

Fireblade SC 57 2004 – 2007

Fireblade SC 57 2004 – 2007
For the first time, a Fireblade with a full liter cubic capacity is taking off. This increases power and torque again. When developing the SC 57, the engineers based themselves on the RC211V, the MotoGP racer from Honda at the time. After the predecessor’s kickback debacle, the Japanese constructed an innovative steering damper. The electronically controlled part is still considered a technical masterpiece to this day. 

Data:
Displacement: 998 cm3
Power / torque: 171 hp / 115 Nm
price: from 12,990 euros
Units sold: 10 698

archive

Fireblade SC 59 – Since 2008

Fireblade SC 59 – Since 2008
The SC 59 is a completely new design. Once again, a Blade is lighter and stronger than its predecessor. With 178 hp and 199 kilograms fully fueled, it sets a new Honda record for power-to-weight ratio. Honda has been supplying an optional ten kilogram ABS for the fire blade since 2009. In the face of stiff competition, one thing is certain: the arms race will continue. 

Data:
Displacement: 1000 cm3
Power / torque: 178 hp / 114 Nm
Price: from 13,760 euros
Units sold so far: 4531

Honda Fireblades in price comparison

Used Honda Fireblade in Germany

You can find all Honda Fireblade models in direct price comparison on the used motorcycle exchange. There you can find Honda CBR 1000 RR Fireblades of all years of construction in top condition and at low prices: Used Honda Fireblade in Germany

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