For 28 years, the Moto GP-inspired Honda Fireblade superbike has represented the benchmark for handling, balance and rider enjoyment and the contributions of Öhlins Racing to the Fireblade have not gone unnoticed by Honda, the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer.

Earlier this month, Honda representatives traveled to Sweden to present the DRiV Advanced Suspension Technologies (AST) business unit with the prestigious Honda Technology Development Award in recognition of Öhlins’ Smart EC 2.0 semi-active suspension featured on the 2020 model year Honda CBR1000RR-R Fireblade SP.

“We are tremendously proud not only to have received this award, but of our longstanding relationship with Honda and other leading motorcycle manufacturers,” said Johnny Bräster, marketing, sales and product management, aftermarket and 2W OE, AST . “These revolutionary new bikes feature an amazing set of next-generation technologies, all of which combine to deliver a superior riding experience, both on the track and off.”

The SP’s Öhlins Smart EC 2.0 suspension features pressurized, electronically controlled 43mm NPX front forks paired with a TTX36 intelligent rear shock, which improves handling and maneuverability, while keeping the weight increase at a minimum.

In addition to the new top-end Honda Fireblades, the Smart EC 2.0 suspension is standard equipment on the Yamaha R1M, a popular choice among supersport riders worldwide.

Special thanks to the Öhlins team:

Anders Källkvist – project manager

Björn Bylund – R&D engineer rear shock

Mikael Jonsson – R&D engineer Front Fork

Christian Svensson – R&D engineer, vehicle dynamics

Andrew Notman –Test rider and product manager

Joakim Sundevall – R&D developer NPX Front Fork

Emil Åberg – Sales Manager & Key Account Manager Honda