The Honda CB1100EX and CB1100RS were unveiled at Intermot 2016

For 2017, two versions of the CB1100 will be available. The CB1100 RS* offers a new kind of more sporting appeal, while the CB1100 EX has been imbued with extra layers of retro style and several performance upgrades.

Manufacture takes place in Honda’s Kumamoto factory, with a production process that’s been fundamentally revised to integrate technology and expert skill in order to create motorcycles rich in craftsmanship and attention to detail,plus aplacein history that only comes with the passage of many decades.

The CB1100 EX outlines the proportion and silhouette of a true 1970s superbike. Its curvaceous fuel tank – made without seam-welded lips – evokes hand-made craftsmanship, while the single round headlight and twin instrument dials denote Hondas from a bygone age.

The CB1100 EX’s classic tubular steel double cradle frame holds the engine with four rigid and two rubber mounts. It features relaxed steering geometry, with rake and trail of 27°/114mm and wheelbase of 1490mm, delivering sure-footed stability with neutral handling characteristics. The ‘rider triangle’ is also relaxed and upright; seat height is 790mm and the handlebar shape has been revised to maintain a neutral position. Kerb weight is 255 kg.

Proudly at the heart of the CB1100 EX is its silky-smooth DOHC engine. Linear, instantly accessible power and torque is what this motor’s all about, and plenty of it, anywhere in the rev range. Maximum power output of 66kW arrives at 7,500rpm with peak torque figure of 91Nm delivered @ 5,500rpm.

As well as a more aggressive stance and riding position the CB1100 RS is also equipped with a Showa Dual Bending Valve (SDBV) 43mm two-piece front fork, which uses two valves to generate both compression and rebound damping force giving linear feel, excellent ride quality and precise road holding. A new die-cast aluminium top yoke features a buffed finish and clear coat, while the bottom yoke holds the fork legs in a higher position.

Twin Showa remote-reservoir rear shocks (with damping rates to match the front fork) operate through a new aluminium swingarm, which has a clean look thanks to an underslung rear brake hose. An aluminium chain guard replaces the previous plastic design.

Dual radial-mount four-piston Tokico brake calipers grip 310mm floating discs with ABS control, the rear single-piston caliper works a 256mm disc. The CB1100 RS also features 17-inch cast aluminium wheels – finished in black – wearing sportsbike-sized 120/70 ZR17 and 180/55 ZR17 front and rear tyres. Three effects from this change are obvious: quicker side-to-side steering, improved cornering traction and a 3% increase in acceleration due to the overall gearing change of the smaller rolling diameter of the rear tyre. L-shaped air valves make checking tyre pressure easy.

Together with the look of the exposed engine, the shape of the fuel tank – its curves and lines – go a long way to give a naked motorcycle its character and appeal. Honda’s engineers wanted to maintain a 300km plus range, but were also focused on creating a truly hand-made look.

The 16.8L fuel tank they came up with does away with the seam-welded lips along both bottom edges, and pays homage both to CB history and contemporary style with a cutaway section that displays the cam cover to the rider. It’s topped with an aircraft style filler cap.

Building on the modern café racer theme the side panels are constructed of pressed aluminium with a textured ‘hairline’ finish while the seat is stripped back to a slim, sporty profile. The black seat frame rails add seamless lines without clutter and the black chrome steel rear mudguard has a more rounded cross section.

A compact black resin front mudguard skims the front tyre and ties in subtly with the machine’s minimalism. Along side stand makes it easier to get the machine upright.

The handlebar is clamped 7mm forward (compared to the previous design) and more compact, sleeker die-cast aluminium hangers mount both rider and pillion footpegs. Standing proud, the round front headlight – an LED unit with spiral running light –crowns the front of the CB1100 RS and is held with aluminium stays flanked by compact LED indicators.

The LED rear light, indicators and number plate mounting bracket has been minimalised for a streamlined look and the circular speedo and rev counter are dressed in satin black with a chrome band. Equipment includes a fuel gauge and clock, gear position indicator, fuel efficiency gauge and range computer. Ignition is now via a ‘wave’ style key.

The CB1100RS will be available in Candy Prominence Red and Graphite Black with a super smooth finish suggestive of repeated, and fastidious, wet sanding.

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