Honda WorldSBK Team Unveils 2025 Challenger

Honda has unveiled its 2025 WorldSBK challenger for fourth-year riders Iker Lecuona and Xavi Vierge, but sadly, there are no major changes to the appearance of the CBR1000RR-R.

Expected to become more consistent threats to the likes of BMW and Ducati this season, Honda’s new CBR1000RR-R continues with the same stylistic theme as previous years, featuring its traditional red, white and blue colourway.

Its appearance, unless studied hard, is hard to spot any significant differences, however, there are small changes as Honda has welcomed new sponsor Ixon, while the factory team has also welcomed new technical partner Ohlins aboard its 2025 Fireblade.

The unveiling of the latest WorldSBK-spec CBR1000RR-R took place digitally as both riders and Honda HRC team manager, Jose Escamez, outlined their goals for what is a very important year for the Japanese manufacturer.

Struggles in MotoGP over the last few years have been met with similar problems in WorldSBK, as Honda has often been the fifth-best brand.

Both Lecuona and Vierge are podium finishers in WorldSBK and will take their new bikes to the track as early as 17-18 February, where Honda will be present for the official two-day test at Phillip Island, Australia. The season-opener will take place at the same track a few days later.

Despite the struggles in being competitive in recent years, Vierge expects that to change in 2025, saying: “For sure. In tough times, to see that Honda is pushing and putting everything it has on the table to support us definitely gives us confidence.

“We all have the same goal after all, which is to win as soon as possible. So everyone’s on the same page and we are spurred on by this.”

Also speaking at the launch, Lecuona was slightly more reserved when it came to expectations for the new campaign, adding: “I learned last year that perhaps it’s not the best idea to start with any particular expectations. For now, the plan is to get on the bike, complete the tests immediately prior to the Australian race weekend, and then take it session by session over the weekend itself. I love the Phillip Island track but haven’t had a lot of luck there in the past.

“The plan is to arrive there with a good base and in good shape, mentally and physically, and to be ready for anything.”

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