Blackbird Forever - Owner Review Honda CBR1100XX Super Blackbird
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- เผยแพร่เมื่อ 21 มิ.ย. 2016
- Review and walk-around of my 1999 Honda CBR1100XX Super Blackbird. Warning - completely biased review totally backed up by the actual performance and quality of this landmark motorcycle. UPDATE - In May 2023, I sold my baby here. I'm putting the proceeds directly into psychotherapy to deal with the loss. But after a decade of Learjet flying in Executive Class on the 'Bird, I just found myself yearning for the greater comfort and storage of a more upright traditional tourer. For now, that's come in the form of an older Kawasaki Concours but I may move to an ST1300. Regardless, I will NEVER forget NOR stop cherishing my time spent on this landmark motorcycle. Still check in here occasionally to answer your questions and comments. Thanks ladies and gentlemen for all your nice comments about my review over the years. I'm glad it helped so many of you. Have a great, safe summer y'all!
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I bought a 2001 Blackbird for a very reasonable price two years ago as something while in between other bikes. Only intended to ride it for a month or two then sell it. I still own it alongside my Goldwing. It blew me away on the 200 mile ride back from buying it. I knew it would be something special, and it is a hell of a lot of bike for the money, but wasn't prepared for just how good it really is. Completely in agreement when you say to people that if they find one for an affordable price to just buy it, even if you're not really looking for one. They're all a good price for a bulletproof bike, the value won't go down any further so no money lost. In the UK, its about £2k for a decent one, can get one that's been dropped and cosmetically not great for less, seen them as low as £1400. Peanuts for a bike of this calibre. A completely sensible hyperbike built as a display of Honda's late 90s corporate dominance. Just buy one. Beats the Gen1 Busa all day for pretty much everything.
Simply the best Honda has ever built alongside the VFR 750 and 800 V4 motorcycles IV seen a few early 90s model VFR 750s with over 500 thousand kilometres on the clock ⌚⏰
Best bike I have ever owned. When you start it up it's like having a valet saying "How fast today sir?"
Just purchased a 1998 one with 23,000 miles. Passed my test 4 months ago, im knocking on 60s door. Never too old..
I was probably one of the younger owners at 26 when I bought my beloved black '97 but still own it today, a few weeks away from turning 34. I did everything to it in the first year adding a three pieces hard luggage set, bubble screen, superbike kit bar risers, lower pegs for myself and the passenger, chain oiler, heated grips, xenon lights, suspension upgrades and a bunch more. I laid it down after 5 years of ownership (oil slick) and had to replace the front wheel, instrument and seat frame, repaired and repainted the fairings and done all of the maintenance myself. This is my last year in Europe and will do some more touring before moving to Canada next year. Obviously she's coming along. I'll never sell her! Other than the sentimental side of owning it for 8 years, it's such a complete bike. It'll eat long stretches of road, scare you silly if you want it to, and provide plenty of comfort for a pillion. The thing I love the most about it is how effortless it does everything. From climbing mountain passes in the Alps, to blasting on the Autobahn to cruising around town. What a machine.
I was 29 when I bought my '00 and now I'm 32. Best bike I've ever driven.
Love it. You're right, it is totally effortless. It's like it's alive and just knows how to carry itself.
Probably one of the most overlooked bikes around. Phenomenally smooth and refined. Still a fantastic mile-eater.
Still loving mine after 24 years.
I bought a '02 XX back then, had it for two years and sold it ... I regretted it deeply, but by chance I had the opportunity to buy it back so I did, it's been with me since then, great bike, best one I owned so far, not letting her go anymore.
It can make more sense to change wives than change from the Blackbird.
I had a 1997 Bird for ten years and B grade Marshalled it on track days, wheelied it at 220 kph in fourth gear from second, kept up and out performed R1's and Gsxr1000's on the track and boy racer runs on the twisties. Had 148 jetting and Pipemaster cans and dyno tuned, 141HP at rear wheel. I fabricated a set of triangular shock brackets from stainless and raised the rear shock mount hole 6mm. What a difference. As for light sports bikes with short wheel bases at high speed, well stick to the track. The Bird never once let me down in high speed crank angles or ruts on the black stuff. Had too many bikes to mention over the last 40 years and owned a 04 Busa. Sure the Busa goes harder and leaps for the sky in the front end, but give me a Bird any day. That's why i just bought an 06 model Bird, and at 58 years old, loving it again. Great feed back, but i simply move my elbows in to have a wider view and always shoulder check when changing lanes. As for the seat, i'm hearing you, you know it's a pain when your but is that numb you can't find your jocks to adjust them!! Shiny side up and look out for tin tops guys.
'Bird is super hot-rod-able. Just got off mine from a short ride. Running strong as ever.
I am from Spain and I have just bought a 98 XX red carburator. As you said it is an amazing bike and it will be always one of the best. Very nice speech. Congratulatios
I own 3 r1s and a turbo busa 2010. Was a dirt triple champ. All i ca say after riding a blackbird you understand how an emotional ride it is. My dad used to have one 99 black. Now i am looking for one to have as a daily. Is one of the most connected rider-machine as one bike ever made. My dad when he let it go couldnt sleep for almost 4 months.
Well said about the connection. It's like a pair of old blue jeans.
Hi. I love. Blackbird is The best motocycle . I had 2002 in BOSTON IN 2018. And nós I have 1999 red in Brazil.
👏👏👏👏👏
Nice!
The Blackbird is the best bike ever made. There , I’ve said it for you. I’ve tried hard to find a better one and can’t. 2000 Blackbird in blue metallic with 32000 miles on it. It’ll see me out. How come my 20 year old bike is still ahead of everything else. I’m 6’2” and getting older by the minute so had to add bar risers and I could do with more leg room and it’ll only get worse but catch me if you can. Wheeeee
Same here, same colour, same year and mileage as yours. I`m 6'3'' but standard setup suits me perfectly. Great bike!
I too have the same bike, same year. I bought it with 32k miles and have put 10k on it, changing out the stator and rr is the only major thing that has needed doing. I definitely want to keep the bike but would like an fjr1300 and a Honda varadero or Yamaha super tenere 1200 as stablemate s
I've had to let go of my blackbird last year when I shifted continents. I will always regret leaving here behind. The best motorcycle I've ever owned by a huge margin.
Hondas high quality flagship Sports Tourer. I have an 06 and it’s an incredible machine.
Can feel a little heavy at low speeds, but man is it a great ride. A very reliable, quick and comfortable machine.
Even in 2023, it’s an incredible machine. Still a somewhat affordable aftermarket buy too.
I feel very fortunate to actually own one, it’s been my hero bike for a while.
I’ll keep it for as long as I can
My baby Honda 1100XX baby blackbird is the greatest thing I own and I will never ride anything other than perhaps its most recent incarnation which brings it to 2009 or whatever.
Fantastic bike, absolutely stellar.
Hello from UK, I had one in 1999, I agree with all your quality points. It's good
I got rid of it after only 800 miles, I had sciatica at the time, it was heavy I felt I was going to scratch it, anyway I was a casual user, and never seemed to be out of 1st gear, it did it so easily,.
Thanks
I had more fun on an old Honda 90cc cub.
You've shown just the improvements in bar height, large screen, longer mirrors , that I would have needed.
I adore my blackbird! I was out with three other guys, one on a R1, another on Aprillia VFR V4, third was 600 Kawasaki. It kept up (mostly) with the other 1000's and left the 600 miles behind. Not bad for a 2001 model. The newer bikes being full on sports bikes were great in the real twisties and way ahead (plus the skills of the other riders) but I didn't have to stop and refuel every 60 miles or get off feeling like I'd been kicked by a horse! Top top top bike.
Smoothest engine I have ever ridden. I could drink a cup of tea at 150mph. No vibration
Yorkshire tea?
Hell I managed 160 without noticing and your comment stands the faster this baby goes the more settled she gets and frankly it’s unnerving.
So.... six years later.. do you still have it ?
I just sold it this month. I'm going to put the money directly into psychotherapy to get over the loss. After 10 years I just wanted a more relaxed riding position so I'm riding my Concours now. I will never forget the 'Bird.
@@wondershpiel 🤣 That is outrageously funny....good work, mate 🤛. Quick story about my BB XX ownership: I bought one last month on an auction website without knowing much about them. So, I had it shipped to me in New Mexico and it arrived around midnight. Naturally, as soon as I signed for the bike, I hopped on it and roared off into the desert. Unfortunately, I forgot to check the tire pressure (later determined to be 20 PSI 🤯) and so my first left hand turn resulted in a remarkable nose dive. I managed to recover but thought I had just bought the world's heaviest - and clumsiest - motorcycle 🏍️....The next day, I filled up the tires and headed out for an intended 45-minute test ride that turned into a 4-hour tour through the outskirts of Santa Fe. I spent most of the ride in a full-tuck position and wondered why everyone said this was a challenging bike ergonomically - the stretched position and long handlebar reach felt great....until I tried to get out of bed the next day. Long story short, I had to use my Dad's cane for a few days and then found myself on the telephone with a local massage therapist. With the session completed, I then drove home and saw the BB parked in my driveway. The sun was out, it was 80 degrees, and the black paint sparkled after a fresh bath. Thirty minutes later, I had full leathers on and jumped onto Black Beauty. Even the best relationships have some give and take. What a marvelous machine....cane included
@@jordangarrick703hey hey, thanks Jordan. Great story. Only thing that might be better than riding a Blackbird might be riding one in The Land Of Enchantment. My neck of the woods is Pancake City until you get up north. Be well.
Good overview. I bought one and still ride it. 42,000 trouble free miles and a lot of fun to ride
I literally just bought one of these yesterday. I can't thank you enough for this video, it gave me that extra push to just go for it. And to be perfectly honest, I'm in love with mine. I got the 99 model and it is just amazing. I'm basically speechless when it comes to expressing the joy it's brought me.
Wow, real happy to hear that Morgan. I can hardly wait till the snow's gone and I can get back on mine!
My pleasure, Ray. Welcome to Birdland. I just went for my first spring rip on mine. It never gets old.
Honestly have been having lots of fun with the bird. A little heavier than I'm used to,but nothing compares to the joy it brings me. She's a bit beat up still, and I've spent over a grand fixing the previous owners mistakes haha. But she goes and I love it. I get looks everywhere.
Listened to you talk on and on about this bike. I have over 50K miles on mine and love it. I put 38K miles on a ST1300ABS. I started on a Valkyrie and later on a VTX1800. Those bikes are like taking out the family motorhome in comparison. A competent solo touring motorcyclist on pavement will want this bike, especially if they have a sport bike background or a sporting background (such as a touring / racing road bicyclist). Thanks
This is on my bucket list, 1st bike I had was a 94 cbr1000f and this is the next gen, if it's better (and it is) I'll never need another motorcycle again
the only things the Bird can't deliver on are dirt performance and laid back or even full-upright riding ergos. Other than that, it's damn close to perfect.
i used to own the 1999 version of this bike and i agree with everything he said - this is really one of the greatest, most perfect motorcycles ever built.
I totally agree. I do like the carb version more then the injection. Sort of a cruise control 6e gear 84km a hour with not giving gas...
Just bought a 1999 Blackbird and can't wait for the riding season to get into full swing.
cheers :))
Happy trails.
Best review to this date on TH-cam by far !
Thank you for posting this.
Thanks so much Sergio. Best, S
I compare every bike to my favourite bike ever,Yamaha FJ1200,(of which I've had a few),and although they are different,the Blackbird is bloody brilliant.I've got a 97,which is a keeper.The FJ seems to be going for stupid prices,so I picked up the 'Bird.I've had loads of bikes,but you just wind this thing on.Anyone could ride it,it's just so easy.For once,I'm not looking for some thing else,so it must be good.As for the linked brakes,what's not to like.Stamp on the rear brake,and the the front dips slightly and hauls you up.I really like this.And for £1450,and a new pair of tyres,bring it on.
I know the linked brakes bring a lot stability.
I wish Honda would bring this bike back into production but make it a CBR 1300XX I would be at the dealer tomorrow with a check.
Couldn't agree more. I never understood why Honda abandoned the entire lineage dating back from the CBR1000F's of the late 80s all the way up to the bird. There should have been a successor. But than again, I guess it would be difficult to improve on it.
There was talk that there would be a one off Blackbird edition made for this year or next, the price was quite high however.
A limited edition.
I fully agree, they improve and kept the gixer going, brought back the triumph, they could have kept the bird going and improved it.
They could make two variations of the blackbird. One would be about blazing speed. The other blackbird make it a high speed 1600cc mid range sport touring bike with shaft drive and hard bags with a music system for people that don't want the weight of a gold wing.
i have a 1998 in black of course :) with only 48,000miles, 4-1 exhaust system, dynojet kit and 40kg lighter, shes still powerfull and fast, comfortable and big, reliable and a joy to ride, Yes you can just cruze along at sensible speeds in comfort, great bottom/mid end power, and she can also be aggressive and just as performing as modern sports bikes, hit 7500rpm and hold on :) She has so much character and soul :)
@Knechtmetal He probably went on a diet. There's no way to drop 40kg from a blackbird.
That carby sounds sweet.
I bought one last week, registered on a 2008 plate. It was the last of 2007 that were available in the UK, apparently, they registered them up to 2009 on the same model. Looking forward to doing some serious touring around Europe when the covid restrictions are lifted. Thanks for the informative video.
glad to hear you enjoy the bird! I bought mine off the showroom floor in 2000 and have never looked back! I have built and ridden a many a bike but my bird is my bird and it is indeed the total package! I have added a power commander full erion exhaust and added 2 up super sprocket on back and to this day it will run next to or out run most everything out there. and the smooth turbine feel of power delivery is always a Honda blessing
Thanks for posting the video, just bought a blackbird and waiting to take delivery next week.
Best move of your Moto life.
I’m 26, 6’1” and absolutely love mine! 98’ Carb’d with aftermarket slip-ons. Younger friends/bros don’t really know what it is, I tell ‘em it’s a 500cc Touring Bike. 😈🤣 🏍💨
Yeah, and tell those youngins that you'll give them the first 200 feet off the line... and then they should prepare to be shut down in total humiliation.
After 30 years off the bikes 3 months ago I brought a 2003 Blackbird for 5K with 42,000klm on it so its a sleeper its typical Honda finish and engineering as I have owned 6 Honda's the last was the VF1000R 1984 model sold it in 1987. The "Bird" is a quantum leap from the VFR technology whilst I should have kept the R my life took a different direction, anyway the Birds here and has led to my wife learning to ride now as she brought a CBR500R for a first bike.
But the Blackbird was a master stroke by Honda that motor reminds me of the heady days burning up the tar on my 1976 Z-900 it has just got gobs of power and now that it is 2017 it can still turn heads and keep pace pretty well.
I have heard stories that the motors have been known to do 400,000 klm's before having to be opened up and those couter-balance's make the motor vibration pretty minimal
You cannot have everything in the one package you either want performance at the cost of comfort I.E CBR1000RR/F2 say of a R-1 of which go very fast but its like sitting on a concrete slab hunched up like a sardine in a tin (I am 193cm tall)
Nope I will keep the bird it will be my last bike I am 61 next April and have had my share of 150mph on open roads and to do 175mph on the roads now days is ludicrous I mean it was back in 1984 when I did those 150 speeds. Every bike made has its strength and weaknesses you need to recognize this because the common denominator is we all like riding bikes so there is really no excuse for saying there is a bike that outshines all the rest. Its those mobile lounge room drivers that frustrate us so much. long live the Birds
That little CBR is a great bike. I rode one at a demo. Big time fun.
I had one.in England 99/2000 model . Black bike/frame, black carbon pipes chrome tips. I personally think one of the very top bikes EVER built . Grossly UNDERRATED under the radar.Honda can beat ANYONE if they want too.
I’m eying a 2003 with 53k for $3k in Detroit...I had a ‘97 VFR 20 years ago... was gonna pick another one up. I’m now thinking the Blackbird. I’m 42 now, I think I will enjoy it. Thanks for the video. I’m a bit more confident in my hopeful XX purchase soon!
Ivan Drago Good luck Ivan sounds like a good deal. Bird’s amazing but VFR also great bike...you’ll find the power on the black bird several multiples higher than that on the already powerful VFR though. But all the same refined Honda goodness. Go Motown!
i remember my big uncle used to own one of these and its been the first bike ive learn to hop on as a co-rider at a very very young age. now 12 supersport bikes later ive spot one full black 2001 really low kms factory condition from a 62yr old guy who kept it in his garage protected and the youtube vids for blackbirds never stop for me the last 3 days 😂. i have a very special place in my heart for always having the bird ...
Just go get it. You won't be sorry.
Steve Mitchell i did. the big bird is awesome i can go everywhere with it even the tightest city turns. the bike is so damn flexible and smooth its mental for its size. job well done honda on this one.
Totally agree.
Great review man. Thanks.
Ive just got my first blackbird and im also shocked at how amazing it is. It really might be the best ever made 🔥❤️
I'm getting mine later this week! :) LOVE this bike.
I’ve had my 96 black blackbird for 8 years, wanted one since I was a kid. I love it more every time I ride it even after 8 years. I intended never to sell it. Even though it’s 24 years old there is no reason it won’t last another 24 years. Sadly I came off it yesterday. A guy came off on the same bend 2 hours previous. New road surface, excessive gravel, no signs.... she was original and mint and is now scuffed up 😭 nothing compares to a blackbird
24 years old and still frighteningly mind blowing
There is actually something more mind blowing. Change the sprockets for a bit more low down torque. Gets you up to the 7000 rev a bit quicker too. Which gives you more giggles. Nobody needs that top 175 speed, but that tiny bit more low down grunt is unreal.
Twenty years and five bikes here and you are right my friend, a great bike. All bikes have their faults, but this one checks most all the boxes for us sport / touring geeks. I like one up only. Have hammered it from one coast to the other and back several times. All smiles here.
I have moved on from cbr 1100xx to goldwing 1800 and just got a 2002 cbr 1100xx after selling my Goldwing.
So you went full circle? Bird...Gold Wing....Bird again?
Good, honest review, fabulous bike, dreaming of it for a while, still dont have enough cash, my old CBR6 will do it for now :)
Thanks a lot Steve because of your video i just picked up a 1997 blackbird . I m in ontario canada.
I've owned 2 and ridden a total of over 150.000 miles on them..definitely one of the best bikes ever made..in my opinion Honda made a huge mistake discontinuing the model too early.
Just perfect for all day riding..fast and nimble enough for the twist and turns..comfortable enough for all day touring two up with luggage..
Yes Steve. I hurt my knee and the 1800 was now to heavy .But I got to tell you that I drove the 1800 from Montreal Canada to Los Angeles true all the desert back roads 4 years ago , what a machine but I had never forgotten my XX. Regards?
great review mate. love my blackbird.
Great video on the blackbird! Thanks for uploading. I had a 98 carb. Have had many bikes and its about the only one i really miss. I'm going to take my time and find the nicest blackbird i can afford ! Again awesome video !
Thanks a lot.
Find a fuel injected blackbirds if you can afford it bulletproof bike's
Great review. Love the color. I got a 2004 blackbird and done the same with the clipons from a VFR800. That increased comfort so much. I went one more and got the front footpegs lowered. It's so wonderful to ride now as I only use it for short day tours with mates. Thanks for showing us your machine.
My pleasure Thomas. Ride on.
jeeez man, you are a man after my own heart, I to own a SBB and love it. I also loved my GPZ's wonderful bike, not a bandit fan great bikes but no personality. Great Video, I share many of your thoughts and feelings
Thanks, Nick!
Hey man! I just want to say I loved your review, very genuine and very practical, you can tell that you have riding experience and understand what is really a necessity as a bike owner. I currently own 2 Honda bikes one of them is a 2003 CB919 Hornet and the other is a 2020 CB650R, I guess u can say I have a “thing” for Honda bikes lol. They have their own different character from one another. I also live in Canada, it’s shame we have a small window of weather to ride 😂
I was and will be keeping my open for one of these rare and Awesome beauties💙
Hey, thanks, Locomaaan! Nice bikes. That naked CB650R looks cool. I've had great bikes of other makes, but when Honda gets one right, it's REALLY right. Can hardly wait for spring. Currently have my 'Bird, running amazing, and a 99 Kawi Concours that needs some carb work. It's great too in it's own way, a rolling couch, but I need to give it some TLC to get the most out of that old Ninja motor. Have a great riding season. Feel free to ask me any Bird questions that may come up.
Thanks brother! Glad to know I can bounce some questions off you! And the 650R is a lot of fun, very nimble and great for the twisties.
Hopefully it gets warm soon 😂Ride safe👍🏻
Fantastic bike, I've got a '97, 15000 miles, commute daily in stupid traffic, rock solid. I've hit huge potholes at speeds that I didn't want to hit, the bird just soaked it up. The Michelin pilot road radials have been excellent. Superb handling, at speeds, just move your body a little. Stupid fast, if you have room. I'm always in heavy traffic, stop and go, never overheats.mirrors are ok, really , once you learn to trust them. I'm keeping it until the wheels turn square.
john harris could have said it better myself.
Verry good review. I am looking now my Blackbird. Try find something from the end of the production with small KM on the clock, But is hard ;). People love this bikes and keep them. Cheers m8. 😊🍻
Thanks for this video, I had a 97 and I still miss it, even compared to my Hayabusa that I have now. I am just north of Toronto so maybe I will see you on the road
Look for me. What colour's your 'Busa?
I got the VFR1200 for years but I am very interested in getting the legendary bird. I didn't realize that some of them are fuel injected.
Thank you for the great review.
Most welcome. Never rode the VFR1200, but I'm sure you'll like the 'Bird. 99' and onward are injected. Nothing wrong with the carb ones though if you see a good deal out there.
My dad has the same one but in gunsteel grey and its so good for solo and for passengers ride experience its in its own league
Great bike! I have it on a very short list of potential future bikes along with the VFR800. Currently I daily drive a '95 Honda ST1100. I like that mine has much bigger taillights than the Blackbird. Glass smooth V4 engine, even if its a bit mild because its a Honda.
I have heard that cycling shorts can help. I had corbin seat on my VFR800, the quality was amazing and improved comfort by some margin over the stick seat. Thanks for the review, I'm looking at getting a CBR1100 as my next bike :-)
Hello from Brighton UK, I have an 02 bike, I've always wanted one and finally I own one, I am 57 now and have owned more bikes than I can remember but I can honestly say that this is probably one of the best bikes I've ever owned, thanks for the review...
Hey, Ghosty. Agree, definitely a superlative motorcycle deserving of it's legendary status. ONLY reason I sold mine after 10 years was the riding position. It was just time to get upright and more ST1300-like. If it weren't for that, I'd still be on my bird. Enjoy the upcoming season...though in Brighton, I dare say on a nice day you could go for rip in January there.
Same here mate I owned the 07 the last of the blackbirds XX 1100 a very fast great handling motorcycle 🏍️ I was getting 2 many speeding tickets so I traded it in on the Yamaha FJR 1300 06 IV still got the FJR it's now done 164800 KMs without any issues I wanted a touring bike with plenty of power to carry my partner on the back we plan on doing a trip to Tasmania either the end of this year or around March April next year the FJR is a bit heavier but with the tyre pressures at the correct pressure it's very easy to control and manoeuvre even in slow heavy traffic both BIKE'S will lope along all day at very low revs around 3 thousand RPM in top gear with a large tank and a fuel range of around 4 to 450kms a tank of petrol and both practically bulletproof with regular maintenance services my FJR run's cold as around the same revs when cold it sounds fine I'd honestly prefer a shaft drive anyday to the messy chain and sprockets
One of the best reviews ever! Thank you for sharing!
Thank you so much.
Bought my 1999 Honda blackbird last year, spent 8 weeks stripping it down, cleaning and replacing worn parts or just improving the look, I couldn't believe how well make this bike is, every nut and bolt came off with ease, parts cleaned up like new, and at £2500 I should have bought one years ago. my previous bikes were, triumph speed triple 1050, BMW R1200GS, and Suzuki GSXR600, I'm kicking myself for not getting a blackbird earlier.
Totally agree. Bird is a fine piece. Wish I had considered it earlier, but I thought of it one-dimensionally...as a speed record bike. So much more. Like I said, I think Honda should re-look this bike and relaunch it in some way. Maybe the market niche no longer exists, but Suzuki still selling the 'Busa.
It's a bike that is so much more than the sum of its parts. Amazing machine.
Great comment.
Great review Steve.
jUST TO ADD ANOTHER NOTE GREAT REVIEW MY FRIEND DOWN TO EARTH AND FROM THE HEART AND YOU WILL NOT MOVE ON KEEP US UP TO DATE COS
YOU WILL HAVE THIS FOR A LONG LONG TIME I CAN TELL !!!!!!!!!!!
Hey thanks, Allan. Yeah, I think I'm on this forever. Maybe not as my only bike...but I can't let it go. "I wish I knew how to quit you, Blackbird."
@@wondershpiel Thanks for your reply I have 10 bikes and a very informative chap who has many many bikes and i do mean many has told me to get one
He buys to invest and has told me this is one bike to get as they will only go up in value as the years pass !! He also said you will just love it when you get it
It is almost the perfect bike If you want a 4 wheel drive car then get one If you want a sports car then get one but you will never get a car that does everything
He recons this is the nearest you will get to something that almost does everything in the bike world So my Humble advice is keep it and enjoy or put it to one side
and just make money ????????????? Good luck and as always ride safe !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Excellent review, many thanks.
i have a '97, most solid piece of machinery ive ever owned. I need to do suspension, and carbs... still is a monster. 20 years WTF
Enjoyed your review - Thanks. Been tossing up between zzr 12 busa ninja 1400 value for money can't go past a blackbird, you can pick one up here ( Australia) for $3000 to $7000.
For me one of the best bikes ever build. I've purchased in 99 a new one (sold two years later with almos 80k kms without any problem) and after 15 years I've bought another blue one with low kms. I also have a Goldwing 2006 and these are my babies. For me the best of Honda along with the VFR's, RC51 and CBR954RR. Another era, another philosophy and qualities.
Totally agree.
Have same and same colour
Bought as a neglected left out of doors cheapie for 1700 gbp
Spent about 300 to get it shipshape and now looks,and runs perfect just waiting for a touring screen and the off across europe
Just negotiated a deal to buy a '99 with 35k miles with service history for $2,600 USD. Can't wait!
Very nice and helpful review. Thanks for sharing.
Nice bike. I just picked up a 2005 with less than 30k on the clock. Insurance here in Australia is $250 a year fully comprehensive.
love this bike, I owned the 97' carbed one for 9 years ! Had a few bikes since but really want to get another Bird. Very high quality motorcycle.
Missy, do you think I should buy a carb or Fuel injected Bird?
Great bike , first top 10 motorbike on any list . Have one 2001.FI .Thank You for great video presentation CBR1100XX
Thanks!
Hi Steve, I really enjoyed your video. I agree in every aspect. ´
Maybe not the best bike for the race track as it´s to heavy. But a great "all around bike" with lot´s of comfort and also lots of torque and power. Probably more than you ever need on regular roads these days.
I have owned lots of bikes during the years, but I´ve just stopped looking for other alternatives after purchasing a CBR1100xx model 2000 in the summer of 2000. At the moment the meter shows 5600km and the bike is still running like a dream. Except for regular service I have changed the cam chain tensioner as it was a little bit "saggy". Living on the West coast of Sweden and have made several trips through Europe to the Mediterranian countries with my wife as a passenger.
I hope you will have many more years with your Bird!
Thanks, here's to more good rides for you and yours.
I am seriously considering one of these. It made Suzuki produce the Hayabusa also a modern day classic, so Suzuki should thank Honda. I would be happy with either, although I think the Honda is probably the better finished, slightly higher quality bike of the two, which is Important when buying 20 year old machines. As for the "busa being 'faster', the difference is negligible in the real world, and well inside licence losing territory. The BB is more than fast enough for 99% of riders.
Honda Blackbird is a better motorcycle all around compared to the Hayabusa, which is also ugly.
I agree. I also agree with the other comment about looks, the Busa is OK but is 'trying to hard'. XX is just smart looking.
What a great reveiw.Just bought a mint 2001 black BB.45 000 KLMS on it.All I can say is what a Bike!!!!Love it.
Can't wait for summer!
Thanks, Garth. Sounds like you got a cream puff.
Great video my friend ! Take care and be safe !
Nice review. I have an '05 I bought new. Love the bike. Even rode it across Australia, which was about a 4,500 km journey. It ate up the miles. Only thing is a softer seat would have really helped.
That must have been a great ride. Funny thing about seats, you might find a firmer one gives you longer comfort. Corbin and those other aftermarkets are harder than stock. As are my butt beads :)
Martin Thompson how long did that 4500km take you to complete.
i love the part when you say that dark period of your life was bikeless time hehehehhehehehe - like
For more relaxed highway riding I fitted 18/44 now the clocks are spot on here are the part numbers:
Chain: DID ZVMX Heavy Duty Gold X-Ring Chain 530 110
Front Sprocket: JTF339-RB 18t
Rear Sprocket JTR302 44T
This is probably the 4th or 5th time I've watched this video. I just today (April 1st 2021) paid in full the seller of a 2002 Silver US spec XX. This will be my 4th XX since buying my first one back in 2000 (1999 left over ). This 19 year old motorcycle only has 8225 km on it (5111 miles)!!! WOW! and is in all stock ( except a Corbin seat) MINT condition. What an incredible find! Since it's 1500 miles away it'll be shipped here to Pennsylvania from Texas. Love an XX!
Wow, Steve that's amazing! Glad you like my vid. The Corbin's probably gunna be a blessing. The stocker is just OK for the long haul (hence my 'butt beads":). Have a great riding season. I love PA. What part are you in? Ridden there a bunch of times on my Bird and on other bikes. People are great and so are most of the roads. Mainly ridden the north-central part like Lock Haven, and up through Renovo, Emporium, Wellsboro, Coudersport, but also a bit down into Amish country and even the Poconos once. Beautiful state. Wish we had that topography in Southern Ontario which is mostly Kansas-flat. You get some good twists up north and it's bit more hilly. Nothing like the Alleghenies though. I went down a logging or fracking road a few years ago in the woods near Galeton on the Bird and out of the mist I saw a whole family of bears just up ahead of me. Shit my pants, no way I could turn around on that ridge. But they ran off. Also have seen those glowing deer eyes at night which sure gets your speed down in a hurry. Fun times!
@@wondershpiel I live in a typical (for this area) suburb just a few minutes north of Northeast Philadelphia. It doesn't take long to escape this area ( maybe 10 minutes or so), and work my way through the scenic old world town of New Hope right on the Delaware River. I head over the main bridge into New Jersey to meet up with riding friends at a small diner for some good breakfast and to talk bikes. Just sold my 2020 Kawasaki ZH2 super naked bike in Feb as it was just not what I expected it to be, plus it was WAY to electronically developed for me. I missed the super smooth engine and simpler controls of the XX. I don't need nor want traction control, 3 power modes, lean angle ABS, TFT display, etc. At 66 I'm set in my ways and this 2002 XX will be my 52nd bike owned. Getting it is pretty much ALL I've though about for the last 1.5 weeks. Paid for it in full today so at least I'm assured it's all mine! Always liked and wanted the 2002 US spec silver metallic version. Glad it's finally Spring and good riding weather is only 2-4 weeks away here in my area.
Ride aware!
Steve Smith
@@stevesmith6236 Wow, look up 'seasoned rider' in the dictionary, there's your picture. I agree with the over-tech-ing of bikes. Cars too these days. BS and costly. Doesn't make it any more fun and just one more thing to break. My 99 Concours is absolute stone-age technology but I love it. Just need to get those carbs sorted :). Tach's dancing around too much and it cuts out accelerating off the line sometimes. Damn thing's like a Kalishnikov though. Tough as nails and just keeps firing. My XX is my choice when I want 'sophisticated savagery'. Rock-stable even at insane speed. Like it's on rails. I got the stock suspension set just right, works great. Having owned so many bikes, after the XX, what's been your favourite?
@@wondershpiel With owning over 50 bikes, there's no realistic way of choosing a favorite, so, I'll make an abbreviated list in no particular order.
1) my 3rd '84 750 Turbo which was a full custom Kawasaki GPz 750 Turbo. Won most of my 63 awards ( plaques and trophies) with that one. Named "Purple Passion"
2) 2003 Kawasaki ZRX 1200
3) 2016 Suzuki Bandit 1250S
4) Any one of my Honda CBR1100 XXs
5) 1982 Kawasaki KZ 1300 six
6) 1980 & 1982 Honda CBXs
@@stevesmith6236bought One top, but way less expérienced than u. Love the xx
Hi Steve. I had a BmwR1100RT & went for bmw club runs. Our leader rides a ST1300 & after a days riding I am so tired I get home & sometimes drop the bike. My excuse no breakfast. Saw BB for sale $3,800 & bought it. Put 4-1, rear mudguard to protect rear shock.No trouble keeping up on club rides & get home feeling refreshed. Nearly 67 lol.BB just flows through the corners. Metzler 6 tyres so guaranteed 10k miles @ 42lbs/in. Thanks for your vids.
CBR1100XX-5
Thanks Denis. BB gets more comfortable the more you ride it. Just picked up Dunlop Roadsmart 3 s to replace my aging metzelers. We'll see. Cheers
Great video, informative, I am on my sixth BB, love them but I always had a sports bike too, I mean at the same time for one up fun
Great review been looking at one of these for me in UK. Have tried a real sheep skin on the seat my triumph club members swear by it I understand its not for everyone its stops the numbness in the rear on long rides
Real nice bike Steve. Ever since I saw my first Blackbird I've thought it's the nicest bike ever. Living in Southern Ontario insurance costs are crazy so when I retired and decided to buy a bike again after being out of it for 30 years I decided on a '88 Suzuki 1100 Katana and bought one with 112,000 km on it for $1900.00, then was shocked that the company I'd been with for about 40 years wouldn't insure it.
I switched companies and even the new one (State Farm) charges around $130.00 a month to cover it. That's for a guy that's 67 years old and with a spotless driving record. It sounds like you found a more reasonable company than mine.
On the other hand I love this old Katana and don't regret buying it. If there had been a good Blackbird in the area for a reasonable price though, I'd have grabbed that because my last bike was a '83 CB1100F and deep down I'll always think Honda builds the best bikes.
Thanks Tim. Your Katana, is that the one with the power-sliding windscreen and the air/oil cooled motor. Those bikes are great. Yeah, insurance this year was $1500. It's just a scandal, not only for bikes but for cars too. Until we start public executions for insurance fraudsters (or insurance executives, I don't know which) we're probably stuck with getting hosed.
Hi Steve. Yes that's my bike. Fantastic power and durability built into those. They're a bit heavy but that's something I don't mind. I think we're at a point where I live that it's just about time to put it away for the winter though. Have a great day and ride safe.
try progressive insurance the are cheap to me .
@@robertt65250 Thank you. I've since moved to Vancouver where we only have one choice for insurance ICBC, which I hate because we don't have the option of shopping for the best price.
@@timluther5171 i added on road side assistance for a little over 3 dollars. what a deal, they will bring gas jump your bike off or trailer it to a shop for you. sorry you are stuck with ICBC
just grabbed a 2003- bird with 8964 miles.. for $3800. Have new windscreen coming this week I hope and we'll make some minor adjustments from there ( bars, possibly the seat and maybe lower pegs ). I hear lots of people making suspension and fork changes but on my 3 rides so far.. haven't felt the need for it ?? done know if im missing something or what but handles twisties just fine.. then again, im not running it like a super-moto race.. handles just a bit heavier than my 2000 VFR800, but nothing I cant handle. The Power is AMAZING.. just unbelievable.. but not rude if you follow.. so smooth and just right there when you hit it.. love this and im sure we'll be together quite a while. Be safe-
Agree with you on suspension. On any bike, changing the suspension can be big $. And then you gotta get it dialed in right too. The Bird suspenders are fine in my opinion, just the right balance of firm but forgiving. You don't want rock hard for a hefty bike anyway. I got mine cranked up pretty far though, probably at 80% of max.
I had two of those. Great bike with super smooth engine and power delivery.Has good presence on ther street, very comfortable for touring.Changing low beam light bulb to xenon will be good mod.Few downsides of this bike. Front suspension has no adjustment and it should have it.Bike handles good enough however when commuting you can feel its weight.Paintwork is soft and if you have pilion passenger over the time those side panels at the back will get rubbed down.Place some transparent stickers.CCT needs replacing every time you will hear ringing when revving the engine 3000-4000rpm.Some people complained about regulator rectifier to be faulty.It never hapened to me but yamaha R1 has stronger people fit.Also bike has narrowly fitted handlebars .I suffered always first two weeks from wrists pain when pulling the bike out of garrage after winter time.
All easily and cheaply fixed.
Great review - then again, I'm biased too as I'm the proud owner of a 2000 Bird. In fact, mine looks exactly like yours; same colour and same top box!
The red ones are the fastest.
Not! My '97 carbie, and it's black!
john harris
Duly noted. :)
Thanks a great review
Great review 👍👍
thanks!
Hadn't heard anyone reference the Katana 750 in a long time....Geez, that brings back memories - and reinforces the idea that I'm getting pretty dang old....😅
Aren't we all.
Iv been riding since the 60s so around 50 yrs iv lost count of the bike's IV owned i bought my blackbird 07 new back then it has to be 1 of the best motorcycle's IV owned i only swapped it for an FJR 06 Yamaha because I wanted a sharf driven bike not for speed which both BIKE'S have in spades if I could afford both the blackbird XX would definitely be my second choice and bulletproof and reliable
Good review. agree about the risers as the standard are too low. Plus try the braided brake lines for a more positive feel on your combined braking system. My blackbird is with me to stay. Even saw a custom naked street fighter conversion which was awesome looking. All round easy to live with bike. Happy Riding.
I think I want one. I have a CBR Fire blade at the moment I sure like it. Looked up lots of reviews on the blackbird it's sure sounds good.
I have also the same bike and color
CBR1100XX - is one of the best sport touring bikes for all times!!!Great legendary bike!
I so agree!
Awesome bike, especially love that Yosh RS3 pipe
Now I got cheap insurance on my baby! Thanks KTX for putting with Economical Mutual. Got the 'Bird and my '99 Concours insured for $1300 together. Never selling now!
Just read a review / used bike guide article for the VFR1200F - quite a few gremlins in the first few years' production (used values already down to 5k GB£), - I'd still opt for a good used BB - easier for the DIY mechanic, save some money, less to go wrong + the first runs of the 1200F had a ridiculously small tank. Maybe H should have made an 'improved' BB - few known gremlins, notwithstanding the usual regulator/rectifier issue
Very nice and helpfull video:D!
Best regards and many more safe miles!
Great review Steve. Thanks. The Bird is on my list for sure. Having looked around quite a bit at most of the bikes in this category, and only BMW come close in build quality. Ducati and MV are more exciting (and less reliable and user friendly in equal measure. Suzukis are interesting, as are Triumphs. Yamaha and Kawasaki fall down on build quality and styling.
But in my humble opinion, Honda's VFR and CBR1100XX Super Blackbird are the two best bikes on the planet for real world biking, quality, reliability and just getting the job done.
I currently have two CB-1/NC27 400s (one Japanese and one USA - Japanese is best), a nice little Varadero for shopping, a 1983 USA spec VF750 V45 Interceptor which needs a full restoration, plus a few other projects including a CBR400RR based streetfighter and a CBX550 cafe racer - both on the drawing board.
One day soon though, I'm going to find me a nice XX Bird.
Yeah, its a nice bike, but do you know the zzr1400? Its amazing
zzr1400 is a beast. Serious whomp.@@pingustrasse