Two years after Japan saw the introduction of the retro CB1100, and after two years of drooling by middle-aged American males, Honda is finally bringing the CB1100 to the U.S. market. Aggressively priced at just $9,999, we suspect early units will be snapped up quickly.
Despite the retro styling and the 1140cc air and oil-cooled inline four, the big CB has plenty of modern elements. These include fuel injection and four valve heads, along with dual disc brakes up front squeezed by four-piston calipers.
The period-correct 18 inch wheels are shod with narrow 110 section front and 140 section rear tires.
We hear the CB1100 makes massive low end power for a satisfying pull away from stop lights. Only five speeds are needed to make the most from this powerplant. The U.S. will only get the Candy Red color for 2012.
Take a look at Honda’s web site for additional details. Here is the full press release from Honda:
For many riders, a motorcycle with a timeless look retains its own special place in the sport—and that’s what the CB1100 is all about. Better yet, with this bike it’s not just about sleek lines and a purist approach: check out the powerful 1140cc air-cooled DOHC engine that harks back to so many classic high-performance Hondas. The twin-shock rear suspension and 18-inch wheels build on the classic bike theme while still delivering sporty performance, and the powerful, thoroughly modern triple-disc-brake setup offers the option of ABS. There’s also the dual-overhead cam layout and four valves per cylinder for superior engine breathing, Honda’s sophisticated Programmed Fuel Injection for the latest in accurate fuel metering and consistent power production, plus more contemporary touches. All these modern highlights complement the CB1100’s timeless style to create a fresh category of motorcycle that’s just right for the times.
Features and Benefits
- All-new 1140cc air-cooled DOHC engine generates impressive amounts of midrange power plus a smooth, sophisticated feel for a rewarding riding experience.
- Timeless styling and ergonomics for a relaxed, open seating position and excellent versatility for all kinds of street-riding environments.
- Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) continuously monitors numerous variables to ensure the correct fuel mixture is delivered for the existing riding and atmospheric conditions. Net result: remarkably crisp throttle response over a wide variety of riding conditions.
- Stout 41mm fork is adjustable for spring preload.
- Classic dual-shock rear suspension system features spring preload adjustability.
- Dual front 296mm disc brakes with powerful four-piston calipers plus a rear 256mm disc brake provide strong stopping power.
- ABS version available for enhanced braking characteristics in less than ideal conditions.
- Sweeping four-into-one exhaust system is both aesthetically pleasing and remarkably functional.
- Low seat height of 31.3 inches makes the CB1100 especially rider friendly.
- Lightweight and efficient chain final-drive is in keeping with the classic styling theme.
- Classic fuel tank shape, handlebar bend, instrument pods, taillight configuration and more are evocative of early Honda four-cylinder bikes that helped establish trends in motorcycle styling.
- Available in Candy Red.
- Transferable one-year, unlimited-mileage limited warranty; extended coverage available with a Honda Protection Plan.
Honda Genuine Accessories†
- Heated Grips, Heated Grips Attachment, Rear Carrier, Tank Pad, Chrome Meter Cover, Chrome Headlight Case, Gold-Color Front Fork Adjustment Bolt
† WARRANTY: Because we’re so confident in the quality of each of our Honda Genuine Accessories, we’re pleased to offer one of the best warranties in the industry. One-year warranty begins on the day accessories are purchased by the customer.
Final accessory list TBD and subject to change without notice.
2013 SPECIFICATIONS
Model: CB1100 / CB1100A
Engine Type: 1140cc air- and oil-cooled inline four-cylinder
Bore and Stroke: 73.5mm x 67.2mm
Compression ratio: 9.5:1
Valve Train: DOHC; four valves per cylinder
Induction: PGM-FI with automatic enrichment circuit, 32mm throttle bodies
Ignition: Digital transistorized with electronic advance
Transmission: Five-speed
Final Drive: #530 O-ring-sealed chain
Suspension
Front: 41mm fork with spring preload adjustability; 4.7 inches travel
Rear: Dual shocks with spring preload adjustability; 3.5 inches travel
Brakes
Front: Dual four-piston calipers with full-floating 296mm discs
Rear: Single-caliper 256mm disc
Optional Honda ABS
Tires
Front: 110/80-18
Rear: 140/70-18
Wheelbase: 58.7 inches
Rake (Caster angle): 27.0°
Trail: 114mm (4.5 inches)
Seat Height: 31.3 inches
Fuel Capacity: 3.9 gallons, including 0.9-gallon reserve
Estimated Fuel Economy**: TBD
Color: Candy Red
Curb Weight*: 540 pounds (CB1100) / 549 pounds (CB1100A)
*Includes all standard equipment, required fluids and full tank of fuel—ready to ride.
**Miles per gallon values are calculated estimates of fuel consumed during laboratory exhaust emissions tests specified by the EPA, not during on-road riding. Use for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on how you ride and maintain your vehicle, weather, road conditions, tire pressure, cargo and accessories, rider and passenger weight, and other factors.
Meets current EPA standards.
Specifications subject to change.
©2012 American Honda Motor Co., Inc. • All Rights Reserved
If you love this bike (as I do) then watch the short movie Honda made about it here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FHf1vuhH6Ik
I’m getting on my dealer’s order list today.
Frank
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Interesting that it has only a single throttle body.
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Where have you read that? It clearly says 32 mm throttle ” bodies ” above.
I hope it runs on regular gas
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Ok i have now read in other places it has a single 31 mm throttle body
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Red WAS a ’70s color. In fact it was the most popular color on the K0 and K1 CB750…the bike that inspired this bike.
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I went to my local dealer today and told him I wanted this bike. He will place the order for it as soon as possible. $9500 out the door. I’m not happy. I’m ecstatic!
Man hat pounds like a goodness pice. I haven even started negotiations yet. Does that include tac
X or do you have to pay that separately?
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Damn laptop says whatever it wants
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Yeah I thought it was pretty good. Does not include tax. Here in Missouri you pay the tax at the DMV.
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Only offered in red. Hmmm. Hey Honda, wanna go retro? Bring this thing out in those 70′s colors.(only this time use good metal and good primer so the paint actually sticks to the tank.) Hell, the only thing you have to paint is the tank!
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Honda’s version of a cruiser? My 1984 Honda Nighthawk S had a 4.2 gallon tank, which is pretty close to this 1100. The Nighthawk also had twin shocks and an air cooled engine. It was plenty quick and great fun to ride (fast) through the canyons, and it was smooth. Sounds just like this bike. Yes, some of us “old timers” will putt around on this bike, but when we decide to turn it up, we can. When it comes to sport riding, cruisers are the wrong tool for the job. Let’s call it nostalgia, with options!
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Well, I put my money where my mouth is. Stopped at my local dealer and had them put my name on the first one they get in. Supposed to be in in April. Yea baby!
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okay, now i know what’s off about this model. it’s the contrasting paint on the rims. the euro model wheels are solid silver (better emulating the appearance of lace ups). no problem. nothing a can of aluma-blast and a satin top coat can’t sort.
looks like the engine has been shaded also, but i’ll let that go.
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Norm you are right, I googled imaged cb1100 and the silver wheels looks deceptively like spoked wheels..interesting. Wonder why Honda didn’t go with the silver wheels for the U S?
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Maybe because the rims as painted look very similar to Lester mag wheels a popular conversion in the late 70s? I know I put them on my 77 KZ 1000 so that I could run tubeless tires.
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re: “Lester mag wheels”
LOL he’s right. i haven’t heard that name in like forever. that’s old skool.
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I like it though it might be a little too conservatively styled for my tastes today. Still, I had a ’78 CB750F once and if it’s as fun to ride and competent as that bike was, I’d definitley want to take a look at this bike. I hope Honda will offer a nice, sexy, practical windscreen.
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Another bike that won’t sell. I bought (and really liked) a ’93 CB1000. It failed, as did the standards from all the other manufacturers that tried it (except the Yamaha FZ1- they built a no BS superbike with rational seating). This thing is a visual throwback that will languish on the showroom floor.
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re: “This thing is a visual throwback that will languish on the showroom floor.”
you have fallen ill and have a malady my friend. “you’ve lost that lovin’ feeling” (righteous brothers sing). as your doctor, i have the prescription for what ails you… 1 trip to the barber museum…! airfare to hartsfield-jaokson and ground transportation are on you, but i’ll spring for admission.
been there like 3x or 4x so i know that of which i speak. send me a paypal address. i’m good for it.
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I wouldn’t say the Standard 1999 – 2005 ZRX1100/1200′s were a failure……they have a huge USA following and can be used for Touring, Drag Racing, kickin little 600′s in the Twisties, as well as a docile grocery getter. They are still being produced overseas……..are easy to maintain and hop-up by DIY’s to produce gobs or HP and Torque. True, pimple-faced kids don’t give them a second look…….until they ride one or get pasted by an old-phart on one. http://www.zrxoa.com
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Some background info in this video on the design and development of the CB1100 (the translation is a little spotty so the subtitles may come across as a bit hokey):
http://www.honda.co.jp/CB1100/impression/english/index.html
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