Yes, still got my 2017 Fireblade but then I only got it in June this year - had a 2012 Anniversary model for a couple of years and exchanged it for an MT10 - couldn't really get on that so exchanged it for a Harley 2012 Fatboy - after 2 years of weight lifting the thing over a gravel drive I yearned for a bike that would handle once more - so a blade it was
What we really need to know is if you have had a cbr, and changed is it better, and what did you buy. why is it better, Some of us don't have a living room full of bikes to test ride
I still have my 2016 SP, tried a Pani V4S (hated it) and now have a S1000RR in the garage next to the SP. I doubt the SP will ever be traded off, unless a 2020 SP comes out that is all new.
Still have the '06 Blade and have added a 2017 RSV4RF. A little unfair in comparing bikes that are practically a generation apart really. As an out and out sports bike the Aprilia is streets ahead in performance (the extra 30 or 40 horses are staggeringly noticeable), the sound of the V4 motor with the SC Project shortie end can is like the devil has opened the gates of Hell, the handling is on a different planet, the stopping power from the Brembo's caught me out a couple of times when I first rode it. The Ape benefits from modern electronic rider aids and the quickshifter is brilliant. It sounds amazing. But in some ways the Blade is easier/more fun to ride, you can bimble around at 30 mph in top gear and then just roll on the throttle and the pick up is super smooth, yet there is still a more than good enough turn of pace if you let it rev through the gears, the seating position is more relaxed on the Blade, I can (and do) take a pillion on the Blade which I would never even think of attempting on the Ape. But did I mention the sound of that V4.............
