The Neo Retro styling is all the rage among motorcycle manufacturers, with nearly every other brand releasing its own iterations of Neo Retro models. Some manufacturers have gone so far as to turn their existing modern models into retro designs, leveraging nostalgia to increase foot traffic in their showrooms.
Now, there’s a new Neo-Retro model in town – The Honda CB1000F. After showcasing the concept earlier this year – Honda has finally taken the wraps off the production spec CB1000F. Although the new Honda CB1000F is a fresh addition to the CB lineup, it is based on the existing Honda CB1000 Hornet, with a classical twist.
Often is with these Neo-Retro models, they tend to pay homage to an iconic model from the past, which were either hugely popular amongst the fanbase or fairly successful racers of their time. This particular Neo-Retro is here to pay homage to Freddie Spencer’s Honda CB750F / Bol d’Or motorycle, which he raced with in the AMA championship.
The Honda CB1000F features a sculpted fuel tank that flows gracefully into the side panels and tail section. Its classic round headlamp, dual horns, and old-school graphics pay homage to the motorcycles from the 1980s, while the striking upswept exhaust completes its Retro-inspired design.
In pursuit of chasing nostalgia by borrowing design from the yesteryears, Honda didn’t forget to keep the equipment modern – yes, the bike looks classical and pretty, but underneath it’s everything a modern motorcycle should be. Honda CB1000F gets a six-axis IMU, enabling advanced rider aids like cornering ABS and intelligent traction control via Honda’s Selectable Torque Control (HSTC). A throttle-by-wire system adds flexibility with three preset riding modes and two user-configurable options, letting riders tailor power delivery, engine braking, and traction control to their liking.
The CB1000F borrows its heart from the 2019 CBR1000RR Fireblade. However, Honda has tweaked the mechanics to match the Retro aesthetics and vibe of the CB1000F. The revised 999cc Fireblade engine now produces 123 horsepower at 9,000 rpm and a peak torque of 103 Nm at 8,000 rpm.
The Honda CB1000F is equipped with a 41mm Showa SFF-BP inverted front fork and an adjustable Showa rear monoshock. Braking is handled by Nissin four-piston radial callipers paired with 310mm floating discs at the front, and a 240mm disc with a single-piston calliper at the rear.
The CB1000F comes with a standard 5-inch TFT display compatible with Honda Roadsync for smartphone connectivity, all LED lights, and the CB1000F also gets a smart keyless ignition. Currently, the Honda CB1000F is on sale in Japan and a select few European countries; Honda has expressed their plans to expand the availability of the CB1000F to other markets soon.
