Honda brings back the ’80s with the new CB1000F

After an initial presentation during the past 8 Hours of Suzuka, then as a concept model, Honda has now officially unveiled the CB1000F, as expected. The design of the retro classic harkens back to the CB750F from the 1980s, but combines this with today’s technology and electronics.

Ever since the introduction of the CB92 Benly in 1959 – the year that Honda also took its first steps on the TT circuit – the letters CB have stood for sporty all-rounders with their own character. Sixty years later, the new CB1000F continues that tradition: a machine that perfectly balances classic lines and modern performance.

Retro look, modern soul

The CB1000F is clearly inspired by icons such as the CB750F and CB900F with which Freddie Spencer made a splash in the 1980s. The tank, side panels and tail form one flowing line, while the round headlight with double horn and the bold graphics seem to come straight from the decade of neon colors and cassette tapes. Yet all this is placed on a modern platform: the CB1000 Hornet forms the technical basis.

Honda calls the CB1000F the ‘Best Balanced Roadster’ – an engine that steers lightly like a mid-range car, but feels like a large four-cylinder. The 1000cc engine has been extensively revised and now delivers 91 kW at 9,000 rpm and 103 Nm at 8,000 rpm. Not aimed at speed chasers, but rather at a powerful midrange and a rawer, more characterful engine sound. The adjusted intake and valve timing also ensure a unique, pulsating run and a wonderful four-cylinder roar from the classic-looking 4-2-1 megaphone exhaust.

Chassis and electronics

In terms of chassis, Honda relies on a steel diamond frame with a specific swingarm and subframe for extra comfort. The suspension comes from Showa, with fully adjustable 41mm SFF-BP upside-down front forks and a Pro-Link rear damper that has been specially tuned for this model. The Nissin radial brake calipers bite into 310mm discs and are aided by cornering ABS that works in tandem with the six-axis IMU.

The same IMU forms the heart of the electronic system. Via Throttle-by-Wire, the CB1000F offers three riding modes (Standard, Sport and Rain) plus two adjustable User modes. Each combines settings for Power, Engine Brake, HSTC (traction control) and Wheelie Control. The information is displayed on a 5-inch color TFT screen with Honda RoadSync connectivity, allowing you to make calls, listen to music or navigate turn-by-turn via a Bluetooth headset.

Details and finishing

Honda has paid attention to detail. The lighting is fully LED, including a classic round headlight with daytime running lights. The Honda Smart Key ensures contactless operation, while the ESS (Emergency Stop Signal) function automatically turns on the indicators during hard braking to warn traffic behind you.

In addition, the CB1000F is one of the first models in which Honda focuses on sustainable materials: parts of the rear fender and the underside of the saddle are made of recycled polypropylene, derived from car and household plastic waste.

Accessories and colors

For those who want to further personalize their CB1000F, Honda offers three accessory packages. The Sport Pack adds a colored headlight fairing, radiator grille, quickshifter and engine protection. The Comfort Pack is aimed at longer journeys with a higher windshield, comfortable seats and fog lights. The Travel Pack provides soft side cases and a tank bag for the long-distance traveler.

The CB1000F appears in three colorways:

– Wolf Silver Metallic with blue striping
– Wolf Silver Metallic with gray striping
– Graphite Black

Back to the future

With the CB1000F, Honda brings the glory days of the CB series back to the present. A motorcycle that not only evokes nostalgia, but also shows that retro and modern can go together perfectly. Or, as Honda itself puts it: “Fun to ride, full of character, built for today.”