’02 and beyond…

‘THE Blade’s rivals have problems… The 2002 Blade kicks serious arse. ”

Bold claims after just six hours testing, but MCN was captivated by Honda’s latest offering at the bike’s recent launch in Portugal.

A top racer would no doubt be quickest on the GSX-R. But for those of us learning to use 90 per cent of a bike’s ability, the new Blade makes serious sense.

It’s much better than the previous model, with more power, sharper handling and a better riding position. Crucially, though, it inspires confidence in a way the GSX-R1000 has not managed to.

Yamaha is still to release its new R1 – we ride it next month – and it might just steal the limelight from the Blade. But to do that, it will have to beat the GSX-R1000 as well.

Though overshadowed by the R1 and GSX-R last year, the Blade outsold them both in the UK. And the five or 10 per cent improvement will help it this year. It appeals because its abilities are so varied – race replica, sports tourer, tourer, commuter.

Of course, Suzuki will improve the GSX-R1000 next year, Kawasaki has just built the best ZX-9R ever, and the R1 continues to evolve. But so does the FireBlade.

Baba has admitted the next Blade may be 1000cc. And others say dozens of permutations are being bench-tested at Honda Japan.

The 2002 bike will provide the basis for the 2004 one (expect a minor update in 2003) and MCN is already ahead of the game.

In the meantime, it just remains for us to say: ” Thanks for the last 10 years, Honda. ”