Nearly a year ago Honda revealed its plans for a new CB1100 with the ‘CB1100 Concept’ at the Tokyo Show. It followed that with the sportier ‘Type
17YM CB1100 EX
II’ concept a few months later. Now both have been revealed in production form as the new CB1100EX and CB1100RS.
While concepts usually change beyond recognition on their way to production, in this case both will reach showrooms virtually unaltered.
17YM CB1100 EX
The base EX version might still look much like the old CB1100, but it’s got significant changes. The engine is still the only air-cooled four-cylinder on the market, and its ability to meet Euro4 emissions regulations is a tribute to the clever cooling design. Its inlets are altered and there’s a new assist and slipper clutch for 2017.
Unfortunately, the biggest problem with the old CB1100 remains. The new bike, at 255kg, is still a hefty beast. Changes to the chassis include new 18-inch wire wheels with fewer spokes than before, in stainless steel instead of zinc-coated. The bodywork is also changed, with a new tank and side panels.
Despite the vintage look, the headlight is LED, and the retro clocks incorporate a trip computer.
The CB1100RS is even more appealing to look at. Café-racer styling tweaks give visual appeal while higher-spec suspension, brakes and 17-inch
17YM CB1100 RS
wheels promise improved handling.
The steering geometry is tighter at 26 degrees instead of 27, and the Showa forks are 43mm instead of 41mm in diameter. Remote reservoir Showa shocks deal with the rear suspension.
17YM CB1100 RS
Radial mount Tokico brakes replace the axial-mount versions on the EX. In typical Honda style, the firm quantifies the upgrades – claiming a 3% improvement in acceleration due to the change of gearing from the smaller rear wheel diameter, plus improved steering and traction. While the RS is lighter, the difference isn’t great – it comes in at 252kg at the kerb.
The engine in both bikes makes 66kW (88bhp), so performance isn’t going to be scintillating. But that’s not really what these machines are about. As an alternative to a Triumph Bonneville, the CB1100 is more appealing than ever before.
