After a great deal of deliberation that included the polling of Canadian motorcycle journalists, Honda Canada has decided to import the CB1000R for 2011.

 

The European model represents the current rage over the pond for naked and nimble mounts that combine sport bike power with bold designs. The CB1000R certainly delivers visually: it has a slender yet muscular build which is punctuated by razor-edged bodywork. Extra credit goes to its use of a single-sided swingarm and a GP-style exhaust.

At the heart of the machine is the mellowed power plant from a 2007 CBR1000RR. De -tuning a sport bike’s engine isn’t necessarily a bad thing as it generally results in a more street-friendly motorcycle. Even though Honda’s claim of 123 horsepower and 73 lb-ft of torque from the 998 cc liquid-cooled, in-line four, doesn’t exactly represent cutting edge performance, it’s still plenty of power for real world use. When we rode the CB1000R 10 months ago it left a positive impression on us; its well-rounded engine, smooth gearbox and powerful brakes stood out, as did its nimble handling and lightweight feel.    

We’re interested by the CB1000R’s prospects in Canada. The success of a motorcycle in Europe isn’t a guarantee of popularity here as the cultural divide between Europeans and North Americans can often be larger than the ocean that separates the two continents. The CB1000R, which will only be available in black, is scheduled to appear in Honda showrooms this spring and will have an MSRP of $13,999.