2012 Honda CBR1000RR | Doin' Time

Wrist: Aaron Frank
MSRP (2012): $13,800
Miles: 3420
MPG: 35
Mods: Honda Genuine Accessories windscreen, gel saddle, carbon-fiber trim

As reported last month, my mod-menu for this CBR1000RR favors real-world rideability over racetrack prowess. Keeping that in mind, I started with some quick-and-easy improvements to cockpit comfort.

There’s no shortage of sportbike accessories available, and most buyers tend to overlook the OEMs offerings in favor of aftermarket vendors. House brands might not be as sexy as aftermarket options that come with the same cool sticker that adorn your favorite racer’s fairings, but there are advantages to choosing factory-approved parts. They’re usually designed by the manufacturer and manufactured by the same vendors, so fit-and-finish is OEM quality. And your dealer likely has them in stock and ready to be installed at point-of-purchase, even rolled into the financing package if you desire.

Honda Genuine Accessories offers a full selection of CBR1000RR options. I selected the Sport Screen ($89.95; _www.powersports.honda.com_) and Energy Seat ($299.95) to enhance long-haul comfort. The Sport Screen's steep rear lip is approximately an inch taller than stock, effectively redirecting the windblast from mid-chest to up and over my 5-foot-7 shoulders. A laser-etched Honda Racing logo along the lower right edge is a subtle, classy branding touch.

You can certainly feel a difference from the Energy Seat. The upgraded “e-cushion thermoplastic-elastomer 3D mesh” insert conforms more closely to your contours compared to the stiffer standard foam, reducing pressure points and hot spots. The faux-perforated cover with an inset CBR logo is a visual upgrade as well. As expected, both the screen and saddle installed without interference.

Honda also slipped in a little extra bling in the form of a carbon-fiber fuel lid cover ($39.95) and tank pad ($34.95). Not much to report here, except if you like that sort of thing, these look great.

The only remaining ergonomic adjustment now is to increase legroom a bit. I’d like adjustable rearsets that can go lower and farther back for street riding, then higher for the occasional track day. Honda doesn’t offer rearsets, so I might have to venture into the aftermarket after all.