MCN rating 4 out of 5 (4/5)
Owners' rating 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5)
SpecsOwners' reviewsBikes for saleFor sale
11
At a glance
Owners' reliability rating: | 4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5) |
---|---|
Annual servicing cost: | £220 |
Power: | 88 bhp |
Seat height: | Medium (31.3 in / 795 mm) |
Weight: | High (545 lbs / 247 kg) |
Prices
New£9,199
Used£4,700 - £7,000
View bikes for sale
Overall rating
4 out of 5 (4/5)
There’s no arguing that Honda has succeeded in producing what it set out to do. The CB11 is a beautiful recreation of an aircooled inline four; it’s easy to handle and novice friendly and it has fantastic detailing inspired by bikes of old. It’s a beautiful ornament and I can see many style or classic-conscious buyers who maybe want something bigger, slicker or different than a Bonnie or Harley being very happy with a CB. But I don’t quite buy this ‘recreating character of old’ bit. Don’t get me wrong: Honda has done a fantastic job with the CB1100. But don’t think that means, aesthetics aside, it’s a machine bristling with character. It isn’t.
Ride quality & brakes
Next up: Engine
4 out of 5 (4/5)
The riding position is completely natural and perfect roadster style – Honda has clearly spent time on the ergonomics. Those wide-ish chrome bars combined with the skinny, 18-inch front wheel adds up to ultra-light, dainty even steering perfect for flicking between traffic. Out of town the CB’s perfectly, comfortably adequate too, with a plush, planted ride that more than compensates for the prolonged windblast inevitable on this kind of bike. Gentle corner carving is as easy as everything else. The steering secure, the brakes crisp and reassuring. And only when you wind up the wick fully does that 18-inch front wheel/skinny tyre and spinly-looking frame leave you feeling a little on tippy toes, find you having to muscle it a little through switchbacks.
Engine
Next up: Reliability
4 out of 5 (4/5)
Honda’s first aircooled multi for 20 years puts style and user-friendliness before extreme performance. The result is easy, purringly smooth and with such a consistency in its delivery you could use its power ‘curve’ as a set square. It doesn’t matter whether that old fashioned tacho needle is pointing at two or eight on that green dial, the CB is always utterly smooth and predictable. Sure, with just 80bhp on tap and no peaks or piques in its power delivery, it’s straight-line potential is never exactly exciting or thrilling. Nor, in these noise-strangled times, is there any cacophany from its cans. But it’s pleasing enough, makes decent enough progress and is never as dull as the equivilent in a water-jacket would be.
Reliability & build quality
Next up: Value
5 out of 5 (5/5)
It’s all executed brilliantly. The finish is glorious, the attention to detail superb. The side stand, for example, sits in just the right place, is easily located with your toe and clicks down effortlessly. In short, though brand new, the CB11 has all the hallmarks of refinement and maturity of a second or even third generation machine. It’s easy to see where those long years of development have gone…
Value vs rivals
Next up: Equipment
3 out of 5 (3/5)
Reasonable. The CB11 certainly isn’t as cheap as a Zephyr or XJR1300 but nor was it ever meant to be: this is an all-new, quality product, littered with nice touches and sweet detailing.
Equipment
5 out of 5 (5/5)
The CB1100 is a gloriously classy, beautifully detailed and designed machine. Forget budget Zephyrs or basic Bonnies, Honda’s homage wants for nothing and is littered with neat touches. On a pragmatic level: it has a mainstand as standard, span adjustable levers on both sides, ABS and quality mirrors, clocks and more. And if you want posh, how about that luxo chrome filler cap, the gloriously recreated ‘crystal’ tailight or chunky yet beautifully crafted cast and machined alloy footrest hangers?
Specs | |
Engine size | 1140cc |
---|---|
Engine type | Aircooled 16v DOHC four, 5 gears |
Frame type | Tubular steel double cradle |
Fuel capacity | 14.6 litres |
Seat height | 795mm |
Bike weight | 247kg |
Front suspension | 41mm telescopics, preload adjust |
Rear suspension | Twin shocks, preload adjust |
Front brake | 2 x 296mm discs, six-piston C-ABS calipers |
Rear brake | 256mm disc, C-ABS |
Front tyre size | 110/80 x 18 |
Rear tyre size | 140/70 x 18 |
Mpg, costs & insurance | |
Average fuel consumption | 46 mpg |
---|---|
Annual road tax | £117 |
Annual service cost | £220 |
New price | £9,199 |
Used price | £4,700 - £7,000 |
Insurance group | - How much to insure? |
Warranty term | Two year unlimited mileage |
Top speed & performance | |
Max power | 88 bhp |
---|---|
Max torque | 68 ft-lb |
Top speed | 125 mph |
1/4 mile acceleration | - |
Tank range | 150 miles |
Model history & versions
Model history
2013: Model introduced
Other versions
None
Owners' reviewsfor the HONDA CB1100 (2013 - on)
7 owners have reviewed their HONDA CB1100 (2013 - on) and rated it in a number of areas. Read what they have to say and what they like and dislike about the bike below.
Review your HONDA CB1100 (2013 - on)
Summary of owners' reviews | |
Overall rating: | 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5) |
---|---|
Ride quality & brakes: | 4.7 out of 5 (4.7/5) |
Engine: | 4.9 out of 5 (4.9/5) |
Reliability & build quality: | 4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5) |
Value vs rivals: | 4.4 out of 5 (4.4/5) |
Equipment: | 4.6 out of 5 (4.6/5) |
Annual servicing cost: | £220 |
5 out of 5 Should've been a contender
20 May 2024 by Stephen R
Version: oooerrmissus@live.co.uk
Year: 2013
Annual servicing cost: £400
An absolute gem of a modern interpretation of a classic bike. I take issues with those who say it has no character. It exactly replicates the feeling of an 80s, 90s Honda. Smooth, turbine like and reliable. That is a "character" . Bikes don't have to shake your teeth out to be characterful. And if you can get past the modern trend for niche bikes for every different occasion? It is a fantastic all rounder.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
If you can get past the lack of weather protection and ride accordingly? It's a 4.5. Tank range is a bit average, but the styling is probably the reason and I can live with that, as it's beautiful. Especially the paint. Apart from dirt and fast group track days? You are all good.
Engine 5 out of 5
The last large capacity air cooled 4 cylinder bike. We'll never see it's like again. And it's a gem. Creamy smooth, torquey, sounds great and can gather it's skirts up surprisingly well.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Probably a 4.8 if I'm honest. The paint on my 2013 engine fins, has flaked off. This requires some elbow grease and solvol to keep looking smart. A retro touch I could happily do without. But that's genuinely the only flaw
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
The above cost reflects service kit, £150 a year and tyres every 2 years, Chain every 5 years. No labour as there is no bike easier to service yourself.
Equipment 3 out of 5
A little poor, mostly because it wasn't that popular, so aftermarket support is almost absent. And it isn't that kind of bike. Still, a quad lock and some throwovers? And you are good to go.
Buying experience: Used dealer, bought at a good price. It's a Honda, so he'll never see me again.
5 out of 5 The best UJM retro, hands down.
08 October 2021 by Edward Joseph Sanaghan Jr.
Version: CB1100A Deluxe
Year: 2014
The best UJM retro bike out there, beautiful and powerful and the last of the air cooled motors. The exhaust on my 2014 model is 4 into 2 - I like stereo. An improvement over the 2013 model that has 4 into 1. The digital display could be brighter in daylight. Out of production soon - too bad.
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
This model has ABS, an important feature for me.
Engine 5 out of 5
Smooth and powerful, love the low end torque.
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Zero issues, totally reliable.
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Servicing is not complicated. I do my own maintenance including tire and chain replacement, oil changes etc. Mileage is usually just under 50 mpg.
Equipment 5 out of 5
Removed the original mufflers and the center stand (I have a lift). Installed "Coffman's Exhaust System's cans. The net weight loss was 22 pounds. The sound is sweet and satisfying, not too loud when cruising but great snarl when accelerating or when you want a pretty girl to know you notice.
4 out of 5 CB1100: Good Bike for the Mature Rider?
20 February 2021 by BuzzbombLennox67
Version: CB1100AS
Year: 2014
Annual servicing cost: £150
Classic looks and great braking. Smooth gear shift and comfortable riding position. The seat is generously padded: good for an old guy. Has to be pointed into bends and corners. Thinking person’s bike. Narrow back wheel is unforgiving and lying the bike down into corners isn’t recommended for the inexperienced rider...or anyone tbh. Heavy bike to push around but well planted on the road. You won’t be winning drag races but this bike’s looks and comfort make this a keeper.
Ride quality & brakes 4 out of 5
Comfy and rides well for 2-3 hours before I need to step off. Really good pillion ride. Sweeping curves are fun but plan ahead into bends. The back wheel can be temperamental if you ignore some basic rules and think for a second you’re on a super sport.
Engine 4 out of 5
Nearly fell off the back the first time I really opened the throttle! My inexperience on it more than the bike. Good power delivery, if rather gradual. Mechanic pal described it as “a plodder” but he rides a Fireblade. No sports bike, though. More for cruising. Great on hills!
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Only once did the battery go flat (my stupid fault in darkest Covid times). The build is excellent. Switches are much better than, say, the Yamaha equivalent. Stay on top of the chrome, though. “Tin trays” are less attractive if dull.
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Standard servicing and no big issues. It eats front tyres for breakfast but replacement costs are low.
Equipment 5 out of 5
The sitting position on the seat! Seriously, it’s like a sofa. Many miles and little pain.
Buying experience: 2017. Was under 3 years old at the time. Dealer. Second hand. £6800 advertised. Part exchange and paid (gross) equivalent of £6400.
5 out of 5 Hits the spot
25 July 2019 by Chris Hart
Version: CB 1100 2015 Twin exhaust 6 speed gear box
Year: 2015
Annual servicing cost: £50
Today's date is 25 July 2019 hottest day of the year, naked bike pure joy, it has enough of everything for a relaxing summer ride, near perfect. If Honda had made the bike look like the Samurider k10 (looks like a 1970's CB750-wonderful go on to the website) conversion look on line they would have sold many more more bikes. Objectively, its not my only bike (but so many people have more than 1 bike these days) that said over the last few weeks it is the bike I choose to ride above everything else!Now Honda be brave and build a modern aircooled CBX, Yamaha build an aircooled Triple (shows my age) I reckon if both manufactures got it right, even if moderately expensive, they would sell. (And if a manufacture was ever brave enough to make a two stroke they would have customers beating a path to their door)
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
I have given it 5 because when you ride the bike within its design limits it is worth 5, push it beyond and the standard suspension gets a bit bouncy at the rear so a 4, but there are no dramas through the bends, all is controllable and plush-try one you will love it.
Engine 5 out of 5
Lovely like putting your finger through whipped cream!
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Its a modern bike, with limited technology other than fuel injection so I doubt it will ever go badly wrong!
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Cheap as chips to service-and can be done at home-simples!
Equipment 5 out of 5
It has all you need to know about.
5 out of 5 A retro but still a Honda (and that's good!)
01 July 2015 by Crawford
Version: CB1100F
Year: 2013
Annual servicing cost: £300
A really useable retro with class and charm, a pleasure to ride at a moderate pace but doesn't feel stressed when you push on a bit. High quality finish and excellent reliability. An all rounder in typical Honda spirit.
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Excellent brakes, front better than rear, classic riding experience with 70s type handling which you get used to fast. Twin shocks a bit basic but that's part of the charm.
Engine 5 out of 5
Really smooth and tractable, adequate power for the character of the bike. No problem with a road overtakes, fairly quiet but still has a good sound.
Reliability & build quality 4 out of 5
I use mine to commute, 16400 miles in two years now in all weathers bar snow and ice. No faults at all, zero oil consumption, generally good corrosion resistance except for some furring of the cooling fins despite ACF-50
Value vs rivals 4 out of 5
Always returns 50mpg even when ridden quite hard, Dunlop D204 tyres last approx 7000 miles. Servicing cheaper than some, though needs oil change every 4000 miles
Equipment 5 out of 5
Hasn't many hi tech bits, though abs seems very good (doesn't cut in easily) great attention to details, especially the deep paint, comstar style wheels and footrest hangars. It's a quality refined act
Buying experience: Bought new from CJ Ball Norwich - a really excellent dealer.
4 out of 5
15 May 2015 by Omega36
Version: SA-E
Year: 2014
Annual servicing cost: £200
A great bike to ride but let down by some poor build quality. Until, Honda accept this I would be reluctant to recommend it to a friend.
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
The ride is excellent and the brakes cannot be faulted.
Engine 5 out of 5
The engine is smooth throughout the range and easy to manage. One should not expect it to produce vicious power has it was never intended for that.
Reliability & build quality 3 out of 5
With less than 500 miles the under surfaces of the mudguards started to show signs of corrosion, as did the spokes. Honda UK arranged for my dealer to replace the spokes but refused to do anything about the mudguards, which they claimed was normal! Fortunately my dealer didn't agree with them and put the matter right themselves. Now with around 1500 miles dry miles, the engine finish is showing signs of distress. Goodness knows what it would be like had it been ridden in the wet!
Value vs rivals 3 out of 5
I do not think the £9,999 the bike cost would have been excessive, had they used better quality materials in the build. I used to own a 1969 CB750 K0 which showed no signs of corrosion after many miles of everyday use. A friend of mine has a K2, which again shows no signs of corrosion.
Equipment 4 out of 5
There is no doubting the fact that the bike is beautiful to look at. It's not often I'm approached by people in the street and told as much. I am quite happy with the standard equipment
Buying experience: Bought from Blade Honda, Swindon, at advertised price of £9,999. It was well worth it as they have looked after me and the bike extraordinarily well since!
5 out of 5 Simply Superior
01 November 2014 by philmak
To put it simply, l liked my Fazer, my GS and my my SX, to name but a few, the difference is l love my CB. Firstly the looks, the positive comments l get off car drivers as well as fellow bikers. It feels like riding a Rolls Royce compared to other bikes l have rode, it just purrs along the road. Its a solid, responsive ride that oozes a sense of confidence no matter what the road ahead has for you.
Ride quality & brakes 5 out of 5
Engine 5 out of 5
Reliability & build quality 5 out of 5
Value vs rivals 5 out of 5
Equipment 5 out of 5
Advertisement