The fuel tank and cover are set low on an extremely compact engine and frame, to promote a racing crouch, while the fairing’s small frontal area also reduces drag. Winglet structures generate the same downforce as the 2018 MotoGP machine, to reduce front wheel lift under acceleration and increase stability on braking and corner entry. Even the smallest detail from HRC finds its way onto the CBR1000RR-R; the lower fairing extends close to the rear tyre, and channels air downward, lowering drag in the dry and channelling water away in the wet, improving grip.

New updates include a 43-tooth rear sprocket alongside optimisation of airbox, inlet ports and exhaust. So, with huge peak power already on tap, you now also have extra low- to mid-range punch for acceleration that stamps hard out of corners. And make no mistake; you’ve got MotoGP technology at your control; this 1000cc, inline four-cylinder engine draws much of its internal design from the RC213V race bike, with semi-cam gear train, titanium conrods, forged aluminium pistons and identical bore and stroke.

We’ve used feedback from our HRC riders to update the 9-level HSTC. It’s now smoother, more responsive to your throttle input and enhanced to make best use of the engine’s extra low- to mid-range push. To match, we’ve reduced the Throttle By Wire (TBW) return spring load to give even more linearity as you feed in the gas. All of which means you get out of each corner faster. Through the 5-inch TFT screen you can fully customise engine power, engine braking and wheelie control to your personal preference; three riding modes also offer default base settings.

A special engine requires a special chassis. The rigidity balance of the aluminium diamond-style frame and RCV213V-derived swingarm, weight distribution and steering geometry work together to give you precise handling ability, tyre grip and, just as importantly, feedback and feel. For set-up flexibility, track to track, you’ve got full adjustability from the USD Showa 43mm Big Piston Fork (BPF) and Pro-Link Balance Free Rear Cushion Lite (BFRC-Lite) shock. And even more braking potential from updated Nissin four-piston radial-mount calipers.