Here’s the TWO versions of the bike launched for 2017 the SP version and a track-spec SP2 option that can use parts derived from the RC213V MotoGP program.

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From an aesthetic point of view there’s a new TFT full colour dash, the tank is a new shape and the bike gets new wheels and a new titanium exhaust.

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The new Blade’s seat height is 831mm and with the frame shedding half a kilo in weight and the subframe trimming off 800 grams, combined with a full two kilos off the 998cc engine weight alone, the new bike is a full 14kg lighter than the current model.

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Power is up by 11bhp to measure 189bhp at the crank thanks mostly to a combination of new pistons. revised cam timing, new crank and revised valve lift. The redline has now gone up to 13,000rpm.

The Blade gets the ride-by-wire package that includes a five-axis measuring IMU brain that works in hand with a nine-level Honda Selectable Torque System – that’s a combined set-up incorporating traction control with anti-wheelie.

ABS and anti-rear lift is standard on the new bike and the bike gets a quickshifter as standard along with a downshift and slipper clutch that combine to let you crash through the gears.

Suspension-wise, the Blade is getting semi-active Ohlins units.

The SP2 special gets carbon bodywork, gold Marchesini wheels that cut inertia by 18% at the front and 9% at the rear.

The special can also fit specific race part kits from Honda’s RC213V MotoGp program that includes larger diameter intake valves, bigger exhaust valves and pistons with an exclusive crown design.

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Tony Carter

Tony has been riding motorcycles for over 35 years and he's been a motorcycle writer for over 25 of those. He's ridden almost every motorcycle you can think of at most places around the world and he's partial to some racing, too. A Taurus, Tony doesn't believe in horoscopes (but then that's exactly what a Taurus would say!) but he does believe in Mandalorians and their right to earn a living.