HONDA VTR1000F FIRESTORM (1997-2000) Specs, Performance & Photos

The Honda VTR1000F was a sports bike manufactured by Honda from 1997 to 2005, also known worldwide as the Firestorm, except in the USA market, where it was marketed as the SuperHawk and powered by a V-Twin engine.

The first bike released in 1997 featured a 90-degree V-Twin engine and a Honda Multi-Action System (HMAS) fork and shock, while the semi-pivotless frame used the engine as a stressed member with the swingarm bolted directly to it.

In 1999, the VTR1000F came with new silver wheels, while in 2001, the Japanese motorcycle manufacturer introduced several updates, such as a larger fuel tank from 16-liter to 19-liter, internal modifications to the front fork, black-finished wheels, smaller indicators, and a less extreme riding position thanks to its slightly raked clip-on handlebar.

Also, the updates included a new LCD dash and a Honda Ignition Security System (HISS) immobilizer that became a standard feature, while the US model retained the original smaller fuel tank.

Back to the first model, the 1997 Honda VTR1000F Firestorm had its soul in a 996cc four-stroke V-Twin liquid-cooled engine that delivered an output power of 110 hp at 9,000 rpm and 97 Nm (72 lb-ft) of torque available at 7,000 rpm.

With a dry weight of 192 kg (423 lbs) and set in motion by a six-speed manual transmission, the bike reached a top speed of 248 kph (154 mph).