Bought mine advertised for $5475 brand new sept 2018. Out the door was $6250 and a $135 plane ticket from MS to Milwaukee. I rode it back to Tupelo, 789 miles.
It wasnt a failure! They targeted a demographic that was aging but, a few of us bought them and were pleasantly surprised. It fit a niche. The retro market begged Honda to build it. Honda built it as a omage to the 750 four. Mission accomplished. Those of us who wanted it, got it. Why do you have one? I have one because i like it.
This is exactly what I'm talking about they could build a retro bike like this that had the same horsepower and with the right Rider on it or eight experienced rider they could get good quarter mile times out of it and forget top speed with fairings and all the wind resistance crap they just need to have a good bike with a good motor and good suspension and it would sell like hell
@@mattclay8737 this bike is so awesome for Gen X people like me. This bike is modeled after every late 70's and 80's street bike brand that dad would ride. It's so money in my opinion.
@@carlosandleon Presumably it was marketed to older more mature experienced(10-20+ years of riding) people. Therefore a smaller engine would not have appealed to the targeted buyers.
Definitely NOT a failure. This bike is awesome! Of course, I'm an old guy and it does everything I want a bike to do and more. The linear power band blows my mind every time I swing my leg over the saddle. The discomfort of the stock seat is really the only weak point, and that just takes spending a few bucks to correct.
exactly. i wanted one when they came out but wasnt paying 11k for it, boiught a sport classic instead.. then 18 mos ago, holdover new '14 came up for a bit over 6k, bought it. Love the bike. should have been in at 8900 new, max. would have been competitive with the bonneville.
Thank you for a comprehensive review of this bike, and your Passion in motorcycles. I am a proud owner of a 2014 CB1100 all black just like the one you featured but with the Samurider 4 into 4 exhaust system (8hp increase) . I also own 6 other motorcycles including a muscle bike (VMax ) and a hypersport (H2SX). You are still very young (I'm in in my sixties) that you missed the angle of nostalgia of this bike, and understandably so. I think the CB1100 appeal to people of my age group that used to own bikes back in the day that looked just like it, namely CB175, 350, Suzuki GS400 and Yamaha XS1100. I miss them and wish I still have them. The CB1100 is not meant to be flashy, just a good old retro honest to goodness motorcycle for an older guy like me. Last night at a supermarket parking lot some younger guy actually walk up to me and commented how much he liked the Retro look. If I want to be flashy I will take out my neon green H2SX, or my all yellow with red flame Harley Springer CVO, or my red Rune. But the CB is something comforting to me, like an old friend returned to the neighborhood. My two cents worth, and keep up the good work.
More than you ever wanted to know about the CB1100... The man responsible for the CB1100, Mitsuyohsi Kohama, played major roles in making a number of impressive motorcycles centered around performance a reality at Honda. These included the CBR600F, VFR750F, CBR900RR, as well as the NR and the RC211V amongst others. The CB1100 was never intended to be about performance nor was it intended to be inexpensive. The price:performance ratio was never "a thing" for the designers and engineers who worked on this motorcycle. Instead it was designed to be a motorcycle that Kohama himself would want to own and ride. The CB1100 was never about "retro styling". Rather Kohama wanted the motorcycle to honor Honda's CB heritage while providing a particular riding experience. From the very beginning, Kohama's design brief for the CB1100 called for an air-cooled inline-4 engine. This was to be the central focus of the motorcycle. Other elements such as the double cradle steel frame, the twin rear shocks and the 18" wheels were all considered to be key components in this truly retro motorcycle. Engineers were told to prioritize producing a certain riding feel as a opposed to prioritizing performance. Thus they ended up with a very under-stressed inline-4 that provides ample torque down low with very linear power delivery throughout it's RPM range. None of this came cheap for Honda as the engine in the CB1100 represented their first air-cooled mill designed from the ground up in over twenty years. More than likely it will also be Honda's last as given future emissions requirements. Honda did have the foresight to design the CB1100's engine to meet far stricter emissions requirement than were in place at that point in time. The true market focus for the CB1100 was Japan where it immediately jumped to the lead sales position in it's class upon it's introduction in 2010. The truth is we were lucky get this motorcycle in the USA at all. It was never intended to be sold here in. Only after enough prodding from America, did Honda finally subside, bringing the bike over here in 2013. I took delivery of one of the very first CB1100's to reach the States and paid $9,999 for it out-the-door. I personally don't think that Honda ever had plans on selling many CB1100 here from the start. They did not bring that many of these machines over here to begin with and aside from providing the press with test units there was no marketing of the bike over here to speak of. By the time Honda released the CB1100RS in 2017 they surely knew it wouldn't be worth the effort to bring it over to the States given that it would fare even worse in the HP/Displacement and HP/$ measurement that most here are enamored with. I still have my 2013 CB1100 by the way and still dig it. I won't be getting rid of it until I give up riding.
Well said! Awesome practical motorcycle designed by a "Master" that really understood what he was doing. The more you understand about motorcycles the more you appreciate machines like this.
Just bought a brand new 2017 cb1100 EX with 27 miles. I have just now have a 1000 miles on it. I've owned Harleys and other Japanese bikes. This is probably the nicest bike yet.
I stopped doing donuts back in HS. It was never PR'd by Honda. But you do have a point about the price. I would buy the new CB1100RS for 12K because I own two CB1100's, 2013/2017EX, both bought used. Once you ride a CB1100, you know immediately how much smoother ride it is than any of the other bikes of its size. Honda needs to bring the RS here and promote it!
Disclaimer. I currently own an EX and had an RS before. IMHO part of the slow sales was because of the way (certainly in the UK where I am) the motorcycling press and magazines are obsessed by power stats and doing lazy journalism. For example, had you (with your insane bike control) released vlogs such as these all those years ago I guarantee it would have made a difference. Its clearly got plenty of oomph to hoist mega wheelies and clown about. If you have the skill. I dont. But its nice to see someone who does and CLEARLY appreciates the bike fot what it can do. The CB's are awesome bikes. 👍👍
I've now owned this bike since July and I love it. It's amazing. I wanted a sport bike, but I've always been a cruiser type rider and this was a good inbetween for me and I do not regret it.
Bought my 2014 cb1100s new 7k out the door. Would have paid full retail price and not a regret if i did. Love Love my bike. Have a friend that i talked into buying a Kawasaki z900rs and i have the privilege to say i got to ride it... wow what a great bike, but i wouldn't trade him for my cb1100 and that's the truth... so happy i have one to ride and i feel blessed 😁
ALL points dead on! Can you imagine how sick you would have bee if paid FULL retail and then turn around and see it for $6,999 2 years later. The BEST description of This Bike in my opinion is simply it is FUN! It is a "GOOD" Bike, but not a GREAT Bike. It does not really stand out with anyone thing. That being said, I get a TON of lookers at it in Memphis at Bikes on Beale Street!
Just got mine a month ago. It’s fun and easy to ride. I am not going to tour on it but I have done 400 mike day trips with no problems. Brakes are exceptional for a standard.
I’ve got a 2014 black, and a lot of people ask me if I restored it, the dealer here in Ohio seems to think they didn’t advertise it enough, great bike, simple and powerful and it’s a Honda, enough said I’m going riding
It's a general purpose motorcycle. It's made for doing everything. Ride fast, ride for commuting, or tour. I would buy it. Yeah the price may be a little high but other than that it's great. Buy it used , whack a windshield and saddlebags on it and go.
My dealer told me today the bike wasn't a failure, but that problem was they couldn't get many of them to sell. He said every one of them they got sold within a couple of days. Availability was the problem at least here in the USA.
"Treat bikes like this" as in ride it and put it through the paces? If the bike cant handle a few wheelies and donuts, I imagine we've got bigger issues to worry about.
@@cavazosrosendo7796 girls tell me that the butthole is an exit only design by Jesus...butt then, I just apply a little lube and bam, everyone is having fun.
TEAR IT UP & REPAIR IT...RIPPED LOOSE SPOKES,FRONT SUSPENSION OIL LEAKS...DEPRECIATION DOCUMENTED...TIRE COMPANYS FRIEND...SIP THE SOPHISTICATED MECHANICAL ENGINEERING...USE A TRACTOR TO PLOW THE DIRT.......RUST IN PEACE
No. Americans saw that it was available in Australia and some other countries and they wanted it to be sold in the USA. Honda heard that and started inporting them in 2013, but the knock of Americans on it was it should be a 6 gear, not a 5 gear in the USA. Honda again listened and decided to start the 2014 with a 6th gear. Honda should not have said anything because once the 2013 lookers were hearing that in 2014 it would have 6 gears, they waited to buy, and a lot of 2013s sat on the market and didn't get sold. So Honda told dealerships to let their people ad aftermarket options and have fun. This enticed some 2013 buyers, but not many, and 2013s were still trying to be sold in 2015. Butr I love my 2013, which I bought used for $4,600 and only 2,800 miles on it.
Burning the rear tire and the wheelees are totally ridiculous No reason to do it except for show off. The bike didn't sell because American bikers like the "space age" mangled wreck look as opposed to traditional, "retro" look which is beautiful. Price wise, well, you pay for Honda's quality, not for gimmicks.
I agree, if they would have added rider aids etc. bumped the HP but kept the styling it would be a winner. I think Ducati was smart creating a mini economy around the scrambler, Honda could have done the same with accessories etc.
The tank looks a lot like the old CBX tank, and the engine like the Suzuki DOHCs from the '70s. Not a bike I thought about much, but this review makes it look tempting.
What killed it was the bad taste of American riders. They love the awful Harley with a stupid V-twin and the big sound. Oh yea, they like the mangled wreck style, the crotch rockets. They don't appreciate Honda quality. Too bad, now nobody can have them. A beauty is gone forever!
You guys got only the EX model not the RS which is the sportier version that was sold in the EU and Asian countries. It was meant to be a modern retro classic bike for nostalgic riders aiming to be a rare and collectors bike only producing them for a short period of time.
Not being a "HUGE success" does not qualify it as a "MASSIVE failure". Don't be ignorant, it's a great bike... I bought a 2013 with 600 miles for $5k...
I got my 2013 CB1100 in 2015 out the door new for $7500. 8000k later it is my go to bike. 177 miles is my limit even with a custom seat. I hate the no cancel turn signals but have installed a self canceling aftermarket add on. I thiin this is an awesome bike!! CB750 with fuel injection, cooling and a 300 cc bigger engine! whoa!!
I have a 2017 model and at 79,love it. Comfortable, good looking retro bike with Honda reliability and turns heads. I had a CB750 in the 70's and loved it too.
People requesting wheelie tutorials probably shouldn't be trying one. I'm not great at wheelies and don't do them very often, especially since I'm old now and ride a 28,000 dollar Indian I'm still paying for but I can do one and I've never asked someone to teach me how. I learned it on a dirt bike as kid.
@@lowslo9287 yeah. I'm not into beating on an 800 lb bike that I'm working hard to pay for and planning to keep and ride for the next 20 year's if I can. I don't baby it, but I'm not trying to make the parts guy's commission on fork seals and belts either.
@@JP-ec9rl mine is like 670lbs and I have a 6 year warranty on anything on the bike I had to get my abs system serviced fro, doing rolling burnouts and wheelies
@@lowslo9287 regardless. You aren't one of the many on here asking for a CB 1100 wheelie tutorial video. I'm pretty sure you could figure out for yourself how to wheelie that motorcycle. Personally I'm not going to abuse a high end bagger that wasn't designed for that kind of riding. If I wanted to ride wheelies I'd go back to sport or standard bikes or even a supermoto.
I think one of the big problems with the motorcycle industry is that the people that ARE attracted to bikes like this are not vocal in social media and the press. The expression that "empty vessels make the most noise" comes to mind. The hooligan and snobbish mentalities are not drawn to these bikes, but are so quick to express their dismissal of them. Personally I am attracted to the CB1100's and love the unassuming, old-school styling. I don't want "rad", adventurer, extreme sports, bobber or cruiser, but I recognise that other folk DO want them. I'ts like someone saying that they love pizza, so sandwiches should not be sold. Why should ass-hats who don't like old-school or new-classic think they have the right to be so expressive about these bikes? Why can't they focus on what they like and leave us to what WE like?
Who are the "ass hats" that are so quick to express dismissal of these bikes? There are relatively few cb1100 videos, but nearly every review I've seen is positive. I think honda missed the mark with price point and marketing.
100% agree. Go onto the CB1100 forum. There are owners from all over the world on there that really enjoy their bikes. These are people that ride them, maintain them, keep them for years. It’s a simple bike with no tech and IMO is all the better for it in an increasingly over complicated world.
Everybodys making these Retro bikes,,,and their handsome bikes,,but they blackout everything,,,I like polished cases,,,rims,,fenders,,forks,,lol,,,the old days
part of me is a little bummed out that i just now found out about this bike having just bought a brand new cb500x... i do love my new bike, but this thing just screams to me because i grew up to this style bike. my dad sold hondas for years up to the early 90s. love that its fuel injected and still air cooled.
I was so happy when the retro bikes came out. I ride a ‘78 GL1000 and just love that old thing, with period fairing and bags. Good warm up with the choke and we’re off on an adventure. Then in ‘18, I saw a ‘14 CB1100 brand new for $7k. I had the dealer assemble it, took it for a ride, and wrote the check! Old school looks with modern 6-speed and fuel injection. 59 mpg! I have the best of both worlds now. Old school with the ‘wing, and modern ride and performance with the CB. I think it was a success at least for a late-in-life rider. I’m nearly 60 now and I get great comments and conversations on both bikes. I love them both and the sport of riding! I do think that if I’d started earlier I’d be gone by now. I’m slower and smarter these days. I’ll keep my wheelies as fun memories on my 10-speeds and stingrays!
Ive owned 2009 cb1300s for 11 years....bought with 600 miles on clock. More power than this and runs like a dream still. I think on looking at the more recent cb1100s they are built to a higher quality and are more retro than my 1300. I think will test one out in spring. My VFR 1200F was also underrated and I just love it
I personally find that a beautiful bike. In my opinion it's the best looking of the naked bikes, and being a Honda the reliability would be second to none. I'm 68 years old so a bike like that's right up there as far as what I'd want, except for the extremely low hp for a bike that big. My current bike (a '88 Katana 1100) came new with 136 hp and should absolutely smoke that much newer Honda if you look at the numbers. I know it's a naked bike but the Honda should have hit the show room floors with 150 hp. Not that a person's going to go out and drag race it every day, but with a engine that big it's what people expect from a big motored bike. Just my opinion. Great video, and again a beautiful bike.
Agree on styling. Other markets have much healthier restoration communities around the 60s and 70s CBs. They like the old-school look that the CB1100 gets mostly right. But here in the USA, I see folks get into CBs mostly as starting points for other styling exercises, like "cafe racers". So lust for the RS that we never got makes a lot more sense. I wonder how the Z900RS is doing. Or the CB650R, for that matter.
I own a 2013 in red. I preordered it as soon as I could when they first became available in the US. With ABS. Serial Number is one of the very first ones in the country. The very first thing I did to it was change the exhaust to 4-4s, K-1 style. R's Gear Wyvern exhaust. That made the bike super retro and people love it. The original 4-1 exhaust was a flop, styling and sound wise. It sounded like an electric razor and looked like a cb550, which this bike was not trying to mimic. I don't buy the "it's too expensive" argument, because if you wanted to restore a K-0, K-1 cb750 back to factory fresh condition it would set you back 10 gs easily. When you do a tribute to a cb750 you don't short change it. Honda did that and that's why it flopped.
my first bike was a '77 cb750a and my last on was a '01 nighthawk. Neither were particularly OMG WOW or great for any long distance riding but I LOVED them both and have drooled over the 1100 since it first came out. Despite my cb soft spot I suspect my complaints with the 1100 would be similar so for the price I'll pass until one falls into my lap :'(
Owner of two of those. The only problem before 2014, it had 5 gears and 6 is great to have while cruising! Great reliable bike with high attention to details, fit and finish... It's a bit heavy though.. .
Great video, you're spot on with your assessment.Bought mine in new in 2017 for 6500. Also have a 1975 CB750 and wanted a modern classic. Wheelie!!!!!!
Hi Jon I have the RS model over here in the U.K. & it’s such a better handling bike than the EX with its 17” rims & it’s slightly more “modern” looks. Real shame you can’t get them Stateside, definite error from Honda.
I had never heart of the cb1100 maybe it failed because of lack of marketing? Now that Jon gave it exposure I’d love to have one. All the looks, power, and comfort.
Bought the first year model released in the U.S.(2013 ) and got it in 2015 for $7500. Love mine and never selling it. It's a gem now but even more, It's a future gem that will be hard to find one day. Next bike for me will be the CB1000r, cant wait.
...basically riding has become so unsafe, that the old guys like me, have stopped. The target group was missed by about ten years. I'm 58, rode these bikes as my first bikes, wanted them back...but i already bought a Z1000 by the time everyone went retro! missed it by this - much!
I am retired & I would drop the cash I a second. My problem is lack of cash. I would charge it but it would over load my budget & my wife would kill me or divorce me! Man I like this bike.
I love, love, love my 2013 CB1100. The motor is bullet proof, fit and finish is fantastic and there are plenty of cool accessories available. But I bought it used for $6,500 with 2,000 miles so there you have it.
Honda is a way more dependable bike, BMW, Triumph, Ducati, and H.D. are way less dependable. I bought a hornet from a guy who had bought for his wife. He was shocked that it was as good on the track as his monster. I was not surprised at all. Bland maybe, fast for sure and dependable.
I might buy one. Seriously it has enough power that i want. Looks nice, it's pretty rare I won't be seeing many at a bike meet. I keep hearing that people just like them. Which got me the last two bikes I loved myself. They also have a good price right now.
Agreed that the price point killed it. It's a good looking bike and if you can get a great deal on it, take it. As for popping wheelies on it; I always thought doing that on bike like it increased the likelyhood of damaging the front suspension and stressing the frame. The issues being that front suspension lacks the travel of a dual sport or dirt bike and that the extra weight only compounded that along with the rake of the bike (depending on the bike if it's a cruiser etc.) To me, it falls in that category of: just because you can, doesn't mean you should.
You hit the nail on the head. My first bike was a new 1981 Honda 750 Custom. I always wanted to relive my youth by getting a restored one. When I first saw this I was EXTREMELY interested until I saw the price. I could buy a new Vaquero for the same price. And now, unfortunately, I will not be able to steal a used one because you are creating demand. Kidding; great video. Enjoyed it.
Here in Canada we did get the RS version and I agree that it was a huge mistake on Honda's part for not including it in the product line up in the US. For me there is a lot of appeal for this bike (RS version), I turn 50 this year and don't ride like a hooligan (not judging) and I think I would enjoy this as my next bike AFTER I get the 2020 Kawasaki Z900. I think it would be a great bike to cruise around on a little later in life. Also I agree about the price point, when you look at the bang for the buck value there are better options. I feel it's the same when you look at the new Honda CB1000. In Canada it about $15000 and you can get some pretty sweet bikes for that kind of money. MT-10, Z1000, Street Triple RS.... I think you have to really love these bikes to shell out that kind of money for them.
I agree that it was too expensive compared to other bikes on the market. I love the looks but at age 67 it was too top heavy for me to wrestle around in my garage.
The sad part is, most complaints about the CB1100 are largely negated by the CB1300. So why in the hell won't Honda bring it stateside? It is larger, liquid cooled, more powerful, while still being a retro standard naked with sportier tank and seat. It's like a CB1100 and a 919 had a baby.
I think it’s beautiful visually. I am not sure why you don’t think it is. The RS never made it to the U.S. I agree with you in saying it would have been very popular.
Honda and really the rest of the big 4 Japanese manufacturers have been dropping the ball when it comes to marketing motorcycles. They are not capitalizing on the racing heritage and owner heritage from past years. I mean when you look at Harley's road racing heritage the last 20 years it is non-existent. Harley markets a complete lifestyle and supports all aspects of that lifestyle. The big four Japanese are not trying to market a lifestyle or capitalize on racing heritage. Damn shame. Last year for the EX1100 in the US market is 2017 with spoked wheels, ABS, and seamless new tank design. Hot bike
i’m gutted they don’t make them any more. born in the 70s this is what bikes should look like to me. i need something a bit bigger too cause bikes are clearly designed for people under 6foot.
You pretty much nailed it. In 2014, $12k seemed like a lot more money for a new bike than it does today. The CB1100 was lack luster when it came to performance per dollar. But it was attractive as a sort of nostalgic 2nd bike to cruise around on. However, the price seemed too high to justify it. That's what I remember, anyway. 👨👩👧 ❤
BLAND doesn’t cut it in a market where buyers are so passionate. Most of us obsess over the bikes we’re about to buy. I love this bike and think if more people were hands-on as they should be as motorcyclists and had some vision outside typical trends, they would see it as a blank canvas for some really cool builds without having to alter too much. I’m not sure of the success of the Eddie Lawson Kazi’s but I’d guess the same outcome. It’s a shame because they have so much potential. You could set it up to tour, use as a commuter, do an 80’s drag style, really anything. I’m in my mid 40’s and could appreciate this bike but it couldn’t sway me from my recent purchase of a Harley touring bike number 1 reason being the “soul” of the Harley among other things. Just not enough character as-is for the CB. You brought up a great point about the FZ-09 having dangerous power, however it falls mostly on deaf ears.
Same thing happened to the 94-95 CB 1000. Great bike, but the price point was too close to the CBR 1000 which was more powerful and the right style for the time.
A friend bought a black one for cheap from a dealer a few years back. I rode it to a local bike night, and like most Honda's, it's a nice bike, but not all that exciting. I'd call it heavy and slow but people would probably get mad at me.
This bike is a nod to what were once called UJM bikes. (Universal Japanese Motorcycles) These were very popular and mainstream back in the late 70s and into the 80s. Bikes like this weren't meant to be super performers, although they did pretty well. It's hard to understand why the styling of this bike left so many cold. Even though Honda, I believe, did a really nice job sculpting this bike there are only a few of us left who harken back to those days. I would guess that if the truth be known most of the people who DID buy these were probably in my age group. By the way, Jon, after awhile the wheelies gets a little redundant. We get it, ok?
Read up on the CB1000R and CB1100R from @1980. Superbikes in every sense of the word. Watched Ron Haslam, Wayne Gardner and Joey Dunlop smashing the big Suzuki Katana's around the UK racetracks back in the day.
I am one of the fortunate FEW to own a 2017 Honda CB1100EX. An absolutely wonderful bike! Why did it fail??? Simple: If Honda spent 1/4 as much on marketing as it does on engineering, they'd own the market. But they didn't put any effort Into marketing this machine in Canada, It was released in 2017. In 2018 it was GONE. It didn't sell BECAUSE dealers couldn't even get the damned things from Honda Canada. My son and I rode to the largest biker event in Ontario and I hadn't been off the CB1100 for even a minute before 5 guys were scrambling around and ASKING, "Is that the new CB1100"? Uh, yeah, it is. "Wow, beautiful bike"! Ditto when we it went to leave the event in the afternoon. When I got back to my home town, I stopped into the local dealer to tell them they need to get more of these into the showroom. Response? "We ordered 3 of them from Honda Canada and we simply can't get them". And the next year it was dropped from Honda Canada's website. I can't say how blessed I feel to actually own one of these "Collector's Items". The overall build quality is impeccable and the welds on the frame are absolute artwork!
@@jfro5867 Totally Retro yet totally Modern with it's LED lighting, ABS brakes, fuel gauge, clock, gear shift indicator, etc., etc. The fuel injection calibration on this thing is spot on with no stumbles or dead spots anywhere, and no twitchiness. The addition of the 6th "Cruising Gear" in 2017 makes this an easy relaxed highway cruising machine. I also own a pretty pristine 30 year old 750 Honda Nighthawk and it's actual performance is almost identical to this 1,140 cc machine BUT in a totally different way. Both bikes run quarter miles in the 12 second range. In the "Horsepower Wars" this new CB1100 is a SLUG but it has torque EVERYWHERE and could actually get by in a pinch with only 2 gears left in the transmission, i.e. 2nd and 6th. The Nighthawk on the other hand doesn't really come alive until 5,500 rpm but then begins to pull pretty well. That Nighthawk could really use a 6th gear to ease highway cruising rpms. However, the seat comfort and total ergonomics on the Nighthawk blow the CB1100 away as the daily miles ramp up. The handling is also a little more nimble on the Nighthawk with its approximate 100 pounds lighter weight. All in all, BOTH are great bikes and I'm fortunate to own both.
I have had the 2014 model for about 2 years now. I think the concept behind it when it was developed back in mid 2000s, the Engineers from Japan just want to recreate the 70s and 80s CB as much as possible. they have even make the engine ticks and sounds the same way as the CB750, and the first thing first is it have to be air cooled like the old ones (unlike Kawasaki). that makes it a great bike just like the old CB750s but like you said, only certain people will be interested in it. When the old CB750 came out it was the only large displacement 4 cylinder bike on the market and kinda defined the sports bike during 60s 70s and 80s, and people are amazed by its performance. Nowadays, the CB1100 is just a modernized version of CB, and it's still great, smooth like silk, easy to maintain, comfortable to ride. But the time have changed. With the variety of market as today, it's hard for people to choose a bike like CB1100, when you can get a 600 super sport for a couple of grand less. For me it's no longer the number or performance level of this bike. It's just this spirit of riding and the legendary style. Great bike after all, enjoy every moment riding it.
If it was offered at the same price and with the same styling but featured a modern frame and suspension, ABS, a 6-speed transmission (was a 5-speed in 2013), hydraulic valve adjustment (which the nighthawk 750 had from 1991 to 2003), full LED lighting, and maybe even a more modern liquid-cooled powerplant, it may have stood a chance in 2013.
I have a '13 I bought a year ago with only 6000 miles and paid $5000 for it. Love it! I am, tho, a huge Honda fan. I had a '94 Acura Legend Coupe for 25 years and have an Accord V6 Coupe now and have had Honda outboards and generators, learned to ride on a Honda 350, and have had a Honda 450, and two 750s.
Well the bike is not a failure , the new laws are the problem . Honda and the other from the big four can not sell bikes in EU because of the emissions standards, i can not say how it is around the globe , that's why they had to tune the engines with lower hp than a few decades ago . In my country the taxes and insurance for my bike are as big as my car taxes . That makes the bikes not so cheap to run , if you calculate it that way : one catalytic converter is around 1500$ . If you add , that the motorcycle market is shrinking , and it is not popular to be capable of riding a motorcycle - but to be show off ... those bikes are for guys from another generation , they love to ride , that is all . The new generation can not live without fancy gadgets , "connections" and so on , bikes are not in their list , so guys i wish i could buy one of these , or CB1300 , and to finish the game one day ;)
I love mine. Bought it from Ride Now in Chandler for $7k. I love the looks, sound, and the way it rides but the lack of power was such a disappointment, I lost a race to a Camaro!
I didn't know this bike existed til 20 minutes ago. I am the total target market. I really love it!
Bought mine advertised for $5475 brand new sept 2018. Out the door was $6250 and a $135 plane ticket from MS to Milwaukee. I rode it back to Tupelo, 789 miles.
Now THAT'S a killer deal! At that price, best bang for your buck!
When did you get the first oil change done?
That's awesome!
@@mariuss.6607 Had the "500 mile service" scheduled for the next morning.
lol i got mine in wilwaukee as well two summers ago. flew down to pick it up and rode 500 something miles back home to NW wisconsin
It wasnt a failure! They targeted a demographic that was aging but, a few of us bought them and were pleasantly surprised. It fit a niche. The retro market begged Honda to build it. Honda built it as a omage to the 750 four. Mission accomplished. Those of us who wanted it, got it. Why do you have one? I have one because i like it.
I paid 6000.00 out the door. Price was great...brand new! List was 10000 dollars. Never pay list. By the way, im pretty wealthy. That helps.
totally agree
@@chuckbowen4334 Hi, I am looking to buy one. Could you let know the dealer info and is it a 2013 or 2017 model that you bought for 6 grand ?
Chuck Bowen
... you selling it? i'll buy it
You can fix it and turn it into a track bike or a cafe racer throw your own touch on it cb are bad bikes at all lol
Not enough speed for the crotch rocket crowd, not enough badge for the snobby retro crowd, and not enough Harley for the boomer crowd
This is exactly what I'm talking about they could build a retro bike like this that had the same horsepower and with the right Rider on it or eight experienced rider they could get good quarter mile times out of it and forget top speed with fairings and all the wind resistance crap they just need to have a good bike with a good motor and good suspension and it would sell like hell
@@mattclay8737 this bike is so awesome for Gen X people like me. This bike is modeled after every late 70's and 80's street bike brand that dad would ride. It's so money in my opinion.
It was never marketed well, brilliant bike. It will become a classic.
Great point! I don't recall seeing much at all regarding this bike when it was released.
it's too massive, should have been a 650
@@carlosandleon Presumably it was marketed to older more mature experienced(10-20+ years of riding) people. Therefore a smaller engine would not have appealed to the targeted buyers.
Definitely NOT a failure. This bike is awesome! Of course, I'm an old guy and it does everything I want a bike to do and more. The linear power band blows my mind every time I swing my leg over the saddle. The discomfort of the stock seat is really the only weak point, and that just takes spending a few bucks to correct.
I think price killed it. I'd like to have one at some point. I think the fit and finish is superior to most bikes out there.
You are right, the price is the key factor!
exactly. i wanted one when they came out but wasnt paying 11k for it, boiught a sport classic instead.. then 18 mos ago, holdover new '14 came up for a bit over 6k, bought it. Love the bike. should have been in at 8900 new, max. would have been competitive with the bonneville.
I love them too but I don't see why really any Japanese bike is so expensive
Yeah well it's a Honda. It'll literally run forever haha
@@davidmadison5582 Just because it ís Japanese...
Thank you for a comprehensive review of this bike, and your Passion in motorcycles. I am a proud owner of a 2014 CB1100 all black just like the one you featured but with the Samurider 4 into 4 exhaust system (8hp increase) . I also own 6 other motorcycles including a muscle bike (VMax ) and a hypersport (H2SX). You are still very young (I'm in in my sixties) that you missed the angle of nostalgia of this bike, and understandably so. I think the CB1100 appeal to people of my age group that used to own bikes back in the day that looked just like it, namely CB175, 350, Suzuki GS400 and Yamaha XS1100. I miss them and wish I still have them. The CB1100 is not meant to be flashy, just a good old retro honest to goodness motorcycle for an older guy like me. Last night at a supermarket parking lot some younger guy actually walk up to me and commented how much he liked the Retro look. If I want to be flashy I will take out my neon green H2SX, or my all yellow with red flame Harley Springer CVO, or my red Rune. But the CB is something comforting to me, like an old friend returned to the neighborhood. My two cents worth, and keep up the good work.
i love the old twin clock...every bike should still have that
@@mikiegee6629 what they have a 650 rs now?
I get asked question everywhere I go on mine. I love it. A lot of people mistake it for a 70-80’s rebuild.
Justin Hudgins, me too! I love my “old looking” CB1100. An extraordinarily capable modern air cooled motorcycle!
More than you ever wanted to know about the CB1100...
The man responsible for the CB1100, Mitsuyohsi Kohama, played major roles in making a number of impressive motorcycles centered around performance a reality at Honda. These included the CBR600F, VFR750F, CBR900RR, as well as the NR and the RC211V amongst others. The CB1100 was never intended to be about performance nor was it intended to be inexpensive. The price:performance ratio was never "a thing" for the designers and engineers who worked on this motorcycle. Instead it was designed to be a motorcycle that Kohama himself would want to own and ride.
The CB1100 was never about "retro styling". Rather Kohama wanted the motorcycle to honor Honda's CB heritage while providing a particular riding experience. From the very beginning, Kohama's design brief for the CB1100 called for an air-cooled inline-4 engine. This was to be the central focus of the motorcycle. Other elements such as the double cradle steel frame, the twin rear shocks and the 18" wheels were all considered to be key components in this truly retro motorcycle. Engineers were told to prioritize producing a certain riding feel as a opposed to prioritizing performance. Thus they ended up with a very under-stressed inline-4 that provides ample torque down low with very linear power delivery throughout it's RPM range. None of this came cheap for Honda as the engine in the CB1100 represented their first air-cooled mill designed from the ground up in over twenty years. More than likely it will also be Honda's last as given future emissions requirements. Honda did have the foresight to design the CB1100's engine to meet far stricter emissions requirement than were in place at that point in time.
The true market focus for the CB1100 was Japan where it immediately jumped to the lead sales position in it's class upon it's introduction in 2010. The truth is we were lucky get this motorcycle in the USA at all. It was never intended to be sold here in. Only after enough prodding from America, did Honda finally subside, bringing the bike over here in 2013. I took delivery of one of the very first CB1100's to reach the States and paid $9,999 for it out-the-door. I personally don't think that Honda ever had plans on selling many CB1100 here from the start. They did not bring that many of these machines over here to begin with and aside from providing the press with test units there was no marketing of the bike over here to speak of. By the time Honda released the CB1100RS in 2017 they surely knew it wouldn't be worth the effort to bring it over to the States given that it would fare even worse in the HP/Displacement and HP/$ measurement that most here are enamored with. I still have my 2013 CB1100 by the way and still dig it. I won't be getting rid of it until I give up riding.
Thanks for the info! I love learning about the origins of some of these machines. Super cool! 🔥🤘
Great information, this is a great review. Thanks for it made me understand a very special bike. Cheers!
Well said! Awesome practical motorcycle designed by a "Master" that really understood what he was doing. The more you understand about motorcycles the more you appreciate machines like this.
Just bought a brand new 2017 cb1100 EX with 27 miles. I have just now have a 1000 miles on it. I've owned Harleys and other Japanese bikes.
This is probably the nicest bike yet.
I stopped doing donuts back in HS. It was never PR'd by Honda. But you do have a point about the price. I would buy the new CB1100RS for 12K because I own two CB1100's, 2013/2017EX, both bought used. Once you ride a CB1100, you know immediately how much smoother ride it is than any of the other bikes of its size. Honda needs to bring the RS here and promote it!
Lol. I didn't start doing donuts until my 30s. Hahaha! But yes, they need to bring the rs stateside and actually promote it.
Disclaimer. I currently own an EX and had an RS before. IMHO part of the slow sales was because of the way (certainly in the UK where I am) the motorcycling press and magazines are obsessed by power stats and doing lazy journalism. For example, had you (with your insane bike control) released vlogs such as these all those years ago I guarantee it would have made a difference. Its clearly got plenty of oomph to hoist mega wheelies and clown about. If you have the skill. I dont. But its nice to see someone who does and CLEARLY appreciates the bike fot what it can do. The CB's are awesome bikes. 👍👍
🙏🤘Thanks, broths!
I've now owned this bike since July and I love it. It's amazing. I wanted a sport bike, but I've always been a cruiser type rider and this was a good inbetween for me and I do not regret it.
Fantastic, solid, reliable, tourer. The engine is bullet proof better than any Harley, beautiful.
Bought my 2014 cb1100s new 7k out the door. Would have paid full retail price and not a regret if i did. Love Love my bike. Have a friend that i talked into buying a Kawasaki z900rs and i have the privilege to say i got to ride it... wow what a great bike, but i wouldn't trade him for my cb1100 and that's the truth... so happy i have one to ride and i feel blessed 😁
I just received the new 2013 in red for my boss. My, name is David, you can just call me "niche" because I'm in love with this motorcycle.
I dont see why they didn't sell well, today bikes are either cruisers or sport bikes. I just want a standard. (Which is why I own a 73 cb750)
It's very hard to find one used or new for sale. I have a 2014 and I get many compliments.
ALL points dead on! Can you imagine how sick you would have bee if paid FULL retail and then turn around and see it for $6,999 2 years later. The BEST description of This Bike in my opinion is simply it is FUN! It is a "GOOD" Bike, but not a GREAT Bike. It does not really stand out with anyone thing. That being said, I get a TON of lookers at it in Memphis at Bikes on Beale Street!
Bought an rs ex demo , big discount - love the bike , mind you I'm now 55 years young 👍🏻
Andrew Hills I'm in my 50s too and want a cb1100rs(blue)
I'm 57 and can still have kids. My girls is young. That's why this is my last,11th bike.
1 girl.
Just got mine a month ago. It’s fun and easy to ride. I am not going to tour on it but I have done 400 mike day trips with no problems. Brakes are exceptional for a standard.
I'v had loads of bikes and currently own a 6 month old 1100 EX. People need to ride one to appreciate them. Mine is a keeper.
If you call any Honda CB "bland", you're wrong.
I’ve got a 2014 black, and a lot of people ask me if I restored it, the dealer here in Ohio seems to think they didn’t advertise it enough, great bike, simple and powerful and it’s a Honda, enough said I’m going riding
It's a general purpose motorcycle. It's made for doing everything. Ride fast, ride for commuting, or tour. I would buy it. Yeah the price may be a little high but other than that it's great. Buy it used , whack a windshield and saddlebags on it and go.
My dealer told me today the bike wasn't a failure, but that problem was they couldn't get many of them to sell. He said every one of them they got sold within a couple of days. Availability was the problem at least here in the USA.
Nice bike ! I don’t understand why people tear bikes like this i mean what is the point?
Agreed. What a terrible way to treat auxh a great bike. Such a shame...
"Treat bikes like this" as in ride it and put it through the paces? If the bike cant handle a few wheelies and donuts, I imagine we've got bigger issues to worry about.
@@JonsMotoGarage the problem is the rider, not the bike. They aren't designed for that.
@@cavazosrosendo7796 girls tell me that the butthole is an exit only design by Jesus...butt then, I just apply a little lube and bam, everyone is having fun.
TEAR IT UP & REPAIR IT...RIPPED LOOSE SPOKES,FRONT SUSPENSION
OIL LEAKS...DEPRECIATION DOCUMENTED...TIRE COMPANYS FRIEND...SIP THE SOPHISTICATED
MECHANICAL ENGINEERING...USE A
TRACTOR TO PLOW THE DIRT.......RUST
IN PEACE
No. Americans saw that it was available in Australia and some other countries and they wanted it to be sold in the USA. Honda heard that and started inporting them in 2013, but the knock of Americans on it was it should be a 6 gear, not a 5 gear in the USA. Honda again listened and decided to start the 2014 with a 6th gear. Honda should not have said anything because once the 2013 lookers were hearing that in 2014 it would have 6 gears, they waited to buy, and a lot of 2013s sat on the market and didn't get sold. So Honda told dealerships to let their people ad aftermarket options and have fun. This enticed some 2013 buyers, but not many, and 2013s were still trying to be sold in 2015. Butr I love my 2013, which I bought used for $4,600 and only 2,800 miles on it.
Burning the rear tire and the wheelees are totally ridiculous No reason to do it except for show off. The bike didn't sell because American bikers like the "space age" mangled wreck look as opposed to traditional, "retro" look which is beautiful. Price wise, well, you pay for Honda's quality, not for gimmicks.
I think the EX model is perfection with all that chrome
OBVIOUSLY A BEAUTIFUL SUPERBIKE...ONLY
FAILURE IS THAT I DON'T HAVE ONE...
I agree, if they would have added rider aids etc. bumped the HP but kept the styling it would be a winner. I think Ducati was smart creating a mini economy around the scrambler, Honda could have done the same with accessories etc.
The tank looks a lot like the old CBX tank, and the engine like the Suzuki DOHCs from the '70s. Not a bike I thought about much, but this review makes it look tempting.
What killed it was the bad taste of American riders. They love the awful Harley with a stupid V-twin and the big sound. Oh yea, they like the mangled wreck style, the crotch rockets. They don't appreciate Honda quality. Too bad, now nobody can have them. A beauty is gone forever!
Love my black 2014 and I've been riding for 40 years. Bought it new for $7k out the door back in 2017.
You guys got only the EX model not the RS which is the sportier version that was sold in the EU and Asian countries. It was meant to be a modern retro classic bike for nostalgic riders aiming to be a rare and collectors bike only producing them for a short period of time.
Not being a "HUGE success" does not qualify it as a "MASSIVE failure". Don't be ignorant, it's a great bike... I bought a 2013 with 600 miles for $5k...
I got my 2013 CB1100 in 2015 out the door new for $7500. 8000k later it is my go to bike. 177 miles is my limit even with a custom seat. I hate the no cancel turn signals but have installed a self canceling aftermarket add on. I thiin this is an awesome bike!! CB750 with fuel injection, cooling and a 300 cc bigger engine! whoa!!
I have a 2017 model and at 79,love it. Comfortable, good looking retro bike with Honda reliability and turns heads. I had a CB750 in the 70's and loved it too.
People requesting wheelie tutorials probably shouldn't be trying one.
I'm not great at wheelies and don't do them very often, especially since I'm old now and ride a 28,000 dollar Indian I'm still paying for but I can do one and I've never asked someone to teach me how. I learned it on a dirt bike as kid.
I did wheelies on my 26k Harley fxdr. Lol
@@lowslo9287 yeah. I'm not into beating on an 800 lb bike that I'm working hard to pay for and planning to keep and ride for the next 20 year's if I can.
I don't baby it, but I'm not trying to make the parts guy's commission on fork seals and belts either.
@@JP-ec9rl mine is like 670lbs and I have a 6 year warranty on anything on the bike I had to get my abs system serviced fro, doing rolling burnouts and wheelies
@@lowslo9287 regardless. You aren't one of the many on here asking for a CB 1100 wheelie tutorial video.
I'm pretty sure you could figure out for yourself how to wheelie that motorcycle.
Personally I'm not going to abuse a high end bagger that wasn't designed for that kind of riding.
If I wanted to ride wheelies I'd go back to sport or standard bikes or even a supermoto.
@@JP-ec9rl yeah I've wheelied one used to ride a 2014 cb1100
My local dealer got an RS in the window. I can’t get it out of my head …
I think one of the big problems with the motorcycle industry is that the people that ARE attracted to bikes like this are not vocal in social media and the press. The expression that "empty vessels make the most noise" comes to mind. The hooligan and snobbish mentalities are not drawn to these bikes, but are so quick to express their dismissal of them. Personally I am attracted to the CB1100's and love the unassuming, old-school styling. I don't want "rad", adventurer, extreme sports, bobber or cruiser, but I recognise that other folk DO want them. I'ts like someone saying that they love pizza, so sandwiches should not be sold. Why should ass-hats who don't like old-school or new-classic think they have the right to be so expressive about these bikes? Why can't they focus on what they like and leave us to what WE like?
Who are the "ass hats" that are so quick to express dismissal of these bikes? There are relatively few cb1100 videos, but nearly every review I've seen is positive. I think honda missed the mark with price point and marketing.
100% agree. Go onto the CB1100 forum. There are owners from all over the world on there that really enjoy their bikes. These are people that ride them, maintain them, keep them for years. It’s a simple bike with no tech and IMO is all the better for it in an increasingly over complicated world.
I dunno,,,im 48,,former Harley owner,,dont own a bike now,,,I think its a Beautiful bike
Everybodys making these Retro bikes,,,and their handsome bikes,,but they blackout everything,,,I like polished cases,,,rims,,fenders,,forks,,lol,,,the old days
part of me is a little bummed out that i just now found out about this bike having just bought a brand new cb500x... i do love my new bike, but this thing just screams to me because i grew up to this style bike. my dad sold hondas for years up to the early 90s. love that its fuel injected and still air cooled.
I was so happy when the retro bikes came out. I ride a ‘78 GL1000 and just love that old thing, with period fairing and bags. Good warm up with the choke and we’re off on an adventure. Then in ‘18, I saw a ‘14 CB1100 brand new for $7k. I had the dealer assemble it, took it for a ride, and wrote the check! Old school looks with modern 6-speed and fuel injection. 59 mpg! I have the best of both worlds now. Old school with the ‘wing, and modern ride and performance with the CB. I think it was a success at least for a late-in-life rider. I’m nearly 60 now and I get great comments and conversations on both bikes. I love them both and the sport of riding! I do think that if I’d started earlier I’d be gone by now. I’m slower and smarter these days. I’ll keep my wheelies as fun memories on my 10-speeds and stingrays!
Ive owned 2009 cb1300s for 11 years....bought with 600 miles on clock. More power than this and runs like a dream still. I think on looking at the more recent cb1100s they are built to a higher quality and are more retro than my 1300. I think will test one out in spring. My VFR 1200F was also underrated and I just love it
I personally find that a beautiful bike. In my opinion it's the best looking of the naked bikes, and being a Honda the reliability would be second to none. I'm 68 years old so a bike like that's right up there as far as what I'd want, except for the extremely low hp for a bike that big. My current bike (a '88 Katana 1100) came new with 136 hp and should absolutely smoke that much newer Honda if you look at the numbers.
I know it's a naked bike but the Honda should have hit the show room floors with 150 hp. Not that a person's going to go out and drag race it every day, but with a engine that big it's what people expect from a big motored bike.
Just my opinion. Great video, and again a beautiful bike.
I got my 2014 (Looks exactly like the one in this video) used (3500 miles) for $5000. Had the $1300 Yoshimura exhaust on it as well.
Your location?
Agree on styling. Other markets have much healthier restoration communities around the 60s and 70s CBs. They like the old-school look that the CB1100 gets mostly right. But here in the USA, I see folks get into CBs mostly as starting points for other styling exercises, like "cafe racers". So lust for the RS that we never got makes a lot more sense.
I wonder how the Z900RS is doing. Or the CB650R, for that matter.
I own a 2013 in red. I preordered it as soon as I could when they first became available in the US. With ABS. Serial Number is one of the very first ones in the country.
The very first thing I did to it was change the exhaust to 4-4s, K-1 style. R's Gear Wyvern exhaust. That made the bike super retro and people love it.
The original 4-1 exhaust was a flop, styling and sound wise. It sounded like an electric razor and looked like a cb550, which this bike was not trying to mimic.
I don't buy the "it's too expensive" argument, because if you wanted to restore a K-0, K-1 cb750 back to factory fresh condition it would set you back 10 gs easily.
When you do a tribute to a cb750 you don't short change it. Honda did that and that's why it flopped.
Great video brother I agree I wish the RS was sold in the states but I’m pretty stoked on my EX. Keep up the good work!
my first bike was a '77 cb750a and my last on was a '01 nighthawk. Neither were particularly OMG WOW or great for any long distance riding but I LOVED them both and have drooled over the 1100 since it first came out. Despite my cb soft spot I suspect my complaints with the 1100 would be similar so for the price I'll pass until one falls into my lap :'(
Owner of two of those. The only problem before 2014, it had 5 gears and 6 is great to have while cruising! Great reliable bike with high attention to details, fit and finish... It's a bit heavy though..
.
Great video, you're spot on with your assessment.Bought mine in new in 2017 for 6500. Also have a 1975 CB750 and wanted a modern classic. Wheelie!!!!!!
Hi Jon I have the RS model over here in the U.K. & it’s such a better handling bike than the EX with its 17” rims & it’s slightly more “modern” looks. Real shame you can’t get them Stateside, definite error from Honda.
I'm jealous, brotha! I think the rs would've really done well over here. Thanks for watching and commenting! 🤘😎
I had never heart of the cb1100 maybe it failed because of lack of marketing? Now that Jon gave it exposure I’d love to have one. All the looks, power, and comfort.
I would still love to have one. It's sad they quit making them. I had a Honda cb500 when I was growing up
Bought the first year model released in the U.S.(2013 ) and got it in 2015 for $7500. Love mine and never selling it. It's a gem now but even more, It's a future gem that will be hard to find one day. Next bike for me will be the CB1000r, cant wait.
...basically riding has become so unsafe, that the old guys like me, have stopped. The target group was missed by about ten years. I'm 58, rode these bikes as my first bikes, wanted them back...but i already bought a Z1000 by the time everyone went retro! missed it by this - much!
I am retired & I would drop the cash I a second. My problem is lack of cash. I would charge it but it would over load my budget & my wife would kill me or divorce me! Man I like this bike.
I love, love, love my 2013 CB1100. The motor is bullet proof, fit and finish is fantastic and there are plenty of cool accessories available. But I bought it used for $6,500 with 2,000 miles so there you have it.
Heck yeah! Definitely rad bikes and smoking deal!
Honda is a way more dependable bike, BMW, Triumph, Ducati, and H.D. are way less dependable. I bought a hornet from a guy who had bought for his wife. He was shocked that it was as good on the track as his monster. I was not surprised at all. Bland maybe, fast for sure and dependable.
WTF, am I gonna die before I see an 1800cc plus in-line 4 cylinder, 66 inch wheel base, shaft drive motorcycle? Can you imagine the power?
I might buy one. Seriously it has enough power that i want. Looks nice, it's pretty rare I won't be seeing many at a bike meet.
I keep hearing that people just like them. Which got me the last two bikes I loved myself.
They also have a good price right now.
Agreed that the price point killed it. It's a good looking bike and if you can get a great deal on it, take it.
As for popping wheelies on it; I always thought doing that on bike like it increased the likelyhood of damaging the front suspension and stressing the frame. The issues being that front suspension lacks the travel of a dual sport or dirt bike and that the extra weight only compounded that along with the rake of the bike (depending on the bike if it's a cruiser etc.) To me, it falls in that category of: just because you can, doesn't mean you should.
You hit the nail on the head. My first bike was a new 1981 Honda 750 Custom. I always wanted to relive my youth by getting a restored one. When I first saw this I was EXTREMELY interested until I saw the price. I could buy a new Vaquero for the same price. And now, unfortunately, I will not be able to steal a used one because you are creating demand. Kidding; great video. Enjoyed it.
One reason I didn’t like it was that it was governed at like 100 mph, which is probably a smart feature but not a cool one
Here in Canada we did get the RS version and I agree that it was a huge mistake on Honda's part for not including it in the product line up in the US. For me there is a lot of appeal for this bike (RS version), I turn 50 this year and don't ride like a hooligan (not judging) and I think I would enjoy this as my next bike AFTER I get the 2020 Kawasaki Z900. I think it would be a great bike to cruise around on a little later in life. Also I agree about the price point, when you look at the bang for the buck value there are better options. I feel it's the same when you look at the new Honda CB1000. In Canada it about $15000 and you can get some pretty sweet bikes for that kind of money. MT-10, Z1000, Street Triple RS.... I think you have to really love these bikes to shell out that kind of money for them.
Every single thing you can do wrong on a motorcycle you have managed to do in this video. You can't fix stupid. TH-cam should pull your channel.
I agree that it was too expensive compared to other bikes on the market. I love the looks but at age 67 it was too top heavy for me to wrestle around in my garage.
They are pretty well balanced, I am your age and have no issues. Absolutely brilliant bike.
The sad part is, most complaints about the CB1100 are largely negated by the CB1300. So why in the hell won't Honda bring it stateside? It is larger, liquid cooled, more powerful, while still being a retro standard naked with sportier tank and seat. It's like a CB1100 and a 919 had a baby.
I think it’s beautiful visually. I am not sure why you don’t think it is. The RS never made it to the U.S. I agree with you in saying it would have been very popular.
Honda and really the rest of the big 4 Japanese manufacturers have been dropping the ball when it comes to marketing motorcycles. They are not capitalizing on the racing heritage and owner heritage from past years. I mean when you look at Harley's road racing heritage the last 20 years it is non-existent. Harley markets a complete lifestyle and supports all aspects of that lifestyle. The big four Japanese are not trying to market a lifestyle or capitalize on racing heritage. Damn shame. Last year for the EX1100 in the US market is 2017 with spoked wheels, ABS, and seamless new tank design. Hot bike
TBH this is the bike of my dreams. Didn't know it existed. Retro style with modern convenience. Will get me one eventually. Thanks!
Rafael Aguirre, you wouldn’t regret it. I love my CB1100!
the CB line of honda is really iconic , built to last........... , simple as that
i’m gutted they don’t make them any more. born in the 70s this is what bikes should look like to me. i need something a bit bigger too cause bikes are clearly designed for people under 6foot.
Here in miami fla.we have Tonssss of folks riding all year...ive seen a Million Ninja 400's on the streets but never a Cb1100
You pretty much nailed it. In 2014, $12k seemed like a lot more money for a new bike than it does today. The CB1100 was lack luster when it came to performance per dollar. But it was attractive as a sort of nostalgic 2nd bike to cruise around on. However, the price seemed too high to justify it. That's what I remember, anyway.
👨👩👧 ❤
I bought mine new in 2015 for 6000.00 dollars. The bargans go to the people who look for them.
Kinda what I did. I got my CB1100 to pair with my Valkyrie for when I want worry free riding but not at a weight of 750-800lbs.
Glad Honda stayed with metal brake fluid reservoir compared to junk looking plastic jobs..
BLAND doesn’t cut it in a market where buyers are so passionate. Most of us obsess over the bikes we’re about to buy. I love this bike and think if more people were hands-on as they should be as motorcyclists and had some vision outside typical trends, they would see it as a blank canvas for some really cool builds without having to alter too much. I’m not sure of the success of the Eddie Lawson Kazi’s but I’d guess the same outcome. It’s a shame because they have so much potential. You could set it up to tour, use as a commuter, do an 80’s drag style, really anything. I’m in my mid 40’s and could appreciate this bike but it couldn’t sway me from my recent purchase of a Harley touring bike number 1 reason being the “soul” of the Harley among other things. Just not enough character as-is for the CB. You brought up a great point about the FZ-09 having dangerous power, however it falls mostly on deaf ears.
Same thing happened to the 94-95 CB 1000. Great bike, but the price point was too close to the CBR 1000 which was more powerful and the right style for the time.
A friend bought a black one for cheap from a dealer a few years back. I rode it to a local bike night, and like most Honda's, it's a nice bike, but not all that exciting. I'd call it heavy and slow but people would probably get mad at me.
This bike is a nod to what were once called UJM bikes. (Universal Japanese Motorcycles) These were very popular and mainstream back in the late 70s and into the 80s. Bikes like this weren't meant to be super performers, although they did pretty well. It's hard to understand why the styling of this bike left so many cold. Even though Honda, I believe, did a really nice job sculpting this bike there are only a few of us left who harken back to those days. I would guess that if the truth be known most of the people who DID buy these were probably in my age group. By the way, Jon, after awhile the wheelies gets a little redundant. We get it, ok?
Read up on the CB1000R and CB1100R from @1980. Superbikes in every sense of the word. Watched Ron Haslam, Wayne Gardner and Joey Dunlop smashing the big Suzuki Katana's around the UK racetracks back in the day.
I love my original CB1100F. I know the brands are competing but anything more than 100 horses is just excess.
I absolutely want one. I just hope the used market keeps them in circulation for a few more years.
The price of motorcycles are ridiculous now. And the best cb , the cb1300 doesn't sell in the USA. Thanks honda
I hope it will become available again.I'd buy one in a second.
I am one of the fortunate FEW to own a 2017 Honda CB1100EX. An absolutely wonderful bike!
Why did it fail??? Simple: If Honda spent 1/4 as much on marketing as it does on engineering, they'd own the market. But they didn't put any effort Into marketing this machine in Canada, It was released in 2017. In 2018 it was GONE. It didn't sell BECAUSE dealers couldn't even get the damned things from Honda Canada. My son and I rode to the largest biker event in Ontario and I hadn't been off the CB1100 for even a minute before 5 guys were scrambling around and ASKING, "Is that the new CB1100"? Uh, yeah, it is. "Wow, beautiful bike"! Ditto when we it went to leave the event in the afternoon.
When I got back to my home town, I stopped into the local dealer to tell them they need to get more of these into the showroom. Response? "We ordered 3 of them from Honda Canada and we simply can't get them". And the next year it was dropped from Honda Canada's website.
I can't say how blessed I feel to actually own one of these "Collector's Items". The overall build quality is impeccable and the welds on the frame are absolute artwork!
Hi Clayton. I live in the UK. I also have a CB. Lovely quality bike. It’s a simple bike in a complicated world.
@@jfro5867 Totally Retro yet totally Modern with it's LED lighting, ABS brakes, fuel gauge, clock, gear shift indicator, etc., etc. The fuel injection calibration on this thing is spot on with no stumbles or dead spots anywhere, and no twitchiness. The addition of the 6th "Cruising Gear" in 2017 makes this an easy relaxed highway cruising machine.
I also own a pretty pristine 30 year old 750 Honda Nighthawk and it's actual performance is almost identical to this 1,140 cc machine BUT in a totally different way. Both bikes run quarter miles in the 12 second range. In the "Horsepower Wars" this new CB1100 is a SLUG but it has torque EVERYWHERE and could actually get by in a pinch with only 2 gears left in the transmission, i.e. 2nd and 6th. The Nighthawk on the other hand doesn't really come alive until 5,500 rpm but then begins to pull pretty well. That Nighthawk could really use a 6th gear to ease highway cruising rpms. However, the seat comfort and total ergonomics on the Nighthawk blow the CB1100 away as the daily miles ramp up. The handling is also a little more nimble on the Nighthawk with its approximate 100 pounds lighter weight.
All in all, BOTH are great bikes and I'm fortunate to own both.
one minute in I'm like this guy is nuts, subbed.
Hahaha! Thanks, brotha! 🤙😎
OBVIOUSLY A SUPERBIKE ,....
THE ONLY FAILURE IS THAT I DON'T
HAVE ONE...
I have had the 2014 model for about 2 years now. I think the concept behind it when it was developed back in mid 2000s, the Engineers from Japan just want to recreate the 70s and 80s CB as much as possible. they have even make the engine ticks and sounds the same way as the CB750, and the first thing first is it have to be air cooled like the old ones (unlike Kawasaki). that makes it a great bike just like the old CB750s but like you said, only certain people will be interested in it. When the old CB750 came out it was the only large displacement 4 cylinder bike on the market and kinda defined the sports bike during 60s 70s and 80s, and people are amazed by its performance. Nowadays, the CB1100 is just a modernized version of CB, and it's still great, smooth like silk, easy to maintain, comfortable to ride. But the time have changed. With the variety of market as today, it's hard for people to choose a bike like CB1100, when you can get a 600 super sport for a couple of grand less. For me it's no longer the number or performance level of this bike. It's just this spirit of riding and the legendary style. Great bike after all, enjoy every moment riding it.
That is one nice looking MC, I gotta have one. Maybe the cb1100 ex.
I love this bike reminds me of my.72 Cb.750 but even better.
If it was offered at the same price and with the same styling but featured a modern frame and suspension, ABS, a 6-speed transmission (was a 5-speed in 2013), hydraulic valve adjustment (which the nighthawk 750 had from 1991 to 2003), full LED lighting, and maybe even a more modern liquid-cooled powerplant, it may have stood a chance in 2013.
Definitely the most true to the original, beautiful,retro styled bike there is.If they bring it back to the states,I’ll buy one immediately.
I have a '13 I bought a year ago with only 6000 miles and paid $5000 for it. Love it! I am, tho, a huge Honda fan. I had a '94 Acura Legend Coupe for 25 years and have an Accord V6 Coupe now and have had Honda outboards and generators, learned to ride on a Honda 350, and have had a Honda 450, and two 750s.
Well the bike is not a failure , the new laws are the problem . Honda and the other from the big four can not sell bikes in EU because of the emissions standards, i can not say how it is around the globe , that's why they had to tune the engines with lower hp than a few decades ago . In my country the taxes and insurance for my bike are as big as my car taxes . That makes the bikes not so cheap to run , if you calculate it that way : one catalytic converter is around 1500$ . If you add , that the motorcycle market is shrinking , and it is not popular to be capable of riding a motorcycle - but to be show off ... those bikes are for guys from another generation , they love to ride , that is all . The new generation can not live without fancy gadgets , "connections" and so on , bikes are not in their list , so guys i wish i could buy one of these , or CB1300 , and to finish the game one day ;)
Great insights, brotha! Thanks for sharing! 🤘😎
I bought one in 2015 and love it. It is beautifully made.
I love mine. Bought it from Ride Now in Chandler for $7k. I love the looks, sound, and the way it rides but the lack of power was such a disappointment, I lost a race to a Camaro!