Take your Honda CBR1000RR-R to the next level with Thyssenkrupp’s carbon rims
German carbon fibre and composites manufacturer Thyssenkrupp now make carbon rims for the Honda CBR1000RR-R
LET’S face it, when it comes to adding carbon fibre to your motorcycle, the chances are you're doing it for vanity reasons rather than increasing performance. Although with Thyssenkrupp Honda CBR1000RR-R carbon fibre rims, you could be bolting on some extra speed too!
Honda CBR1000RR-R SP (2020) review
The new wheels are around 1.6kg lighter than the stock aluminium items, which as any race team will tell you, has a massive knock-on benefit to how the bike handles.
Thyssenkrupp’s wheels are claimed to be unique, featuring a patented braiding technology. This construction method is part of what makes the wheels such stunning things to look at. The seamlessly processed carbon fibres are claimed to provide unbeatable strength and maximum lightweight design. With the carbon wheels being available for the Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP, riders of a total of five Honda models have the opportunity to equip their motorcycles with those carbon innovations. All wheels can be ordered through the known dealer network or the company’s website.
‘We are working across all brands and are continuously expanding our portfolio. It is undeniable that our braided carbon wheels are a perfect match for the new Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade and CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP. I am convinced that the advantages in performance will become obvious for everybody riding the Fireblade equipped with our carbon wheels.’ explains CEO Dr Jens Werner.
The wheels are available in the sizes 3.5x17 and 6.0x17 inches costs around 3,411 euros including bearings and valves. The front and rear wheels can also be ordered individually. The prices are 1,656 and 1,949 euros respectively.
What are the advantages of lightweight wheels on a motorcycle?
Lighter wheels are easier to accelerate and decelerate, and they also can improve the cornering of the bike as they have less inertia than the stock items. Lighter wheels also place less pressure on the bike’s suspension, which is constantly trying to control the motorcycle’s un-sprung mass. The lighter the un-sprung mass, the easier it will be for the suspension to control it, in whatever direction it is trying to travel. With these benefits in mind, carbon rims can have the biggest positive effect on the handling of a motorcycle that a rider can bolt on at home.
Simon (AKA Toad) has been working within the motorcycle industry for more than twelve years, and a member of the motorcyclist family since birth. Growing up around British-built single and twins, it was inevitable that a life on two wheels was on the cards, from a very early age!
