CB fans rejoice! The CB1000F is finally here! Honda has unveiled the CB1000F neo-retro motorcycle. Inspired by the iconic CB750F and CB900F, this bike blends old-school, and much loved, design with today’s tech and performance as it is based on the CB1000 Hornet.
Its styling is going to be their USPs. And we have to say, this bikes look absolutely fabulous! Up front, there’s a bold, circular LED headlamp with a brushed metal surround that gives off serious retro vibes. It sits slightly lower and flatter than on most modern bikes, adding to the muscular, hunched-forward stance. The tank is large and sculpted, finished in clean metallic paint with bold racing stripes that instantly recall the CB900F’s livery. Honda is offering three colours: Wolf Silver Metallic with Blue Stripe, Wolf Silver Metallic with Grey Stripe, and Graphite Black, all of which suit the old-school theme beautifully.
The tail section keeps things minimal, featuring a compact rear mudguard and a stepped single-piece seat that adds to the vintage profile. The seat is slim but padded, with a clear visual nod to the café racer era. The number plate and indicators are neatly tucked underneath, keeping the rear uncluttered. Small touches, like the dual horns up front and polished engine covers, further celebrate Honda’s heritage.
Powering the CB is a 1000cc, four-cylinder engine that makes 122bhp at 9000rpm and 103Nm of torque at 8000rpm. While it produces less peak power than the sportier CB1000 Hornet, which makes 152bhp and 170Nm, the engine is tuned to feel stronger at lower and middle speeds. Makes them easier to ride in the city or on twisty roads without needing to rev hard. This is achieved by adjusting how the engine breathes and fires, adding longer intake pipes and a redesigned exhaust that also gives the bike a deeper, more exciting sound.
The gearing has also been revised to match the engine’s new character. First and second gears are now shorter, which helps with quicker take-off and smoother low-speed riding. The higher gears are longer, making highway cruising more relaxed. A new clutch setup also makes gear changes smoother and helps keep the ride stable during sudden downshifts.
Under the retro bodywork lies the same solid steel frame used in the CB1000 Hornet, but with a new rear section that gives more space, especially for passengers. The suspension comes from Showa and can be adjusted to suit your riding style or road conditions. Braking is handled by a Nissin setup with radial calipers at both ends. The bikes roll on lightweight five-spoke alloy wheels.
Despite its vintage-inspired looks, the CB1000F is packed with modern technology. A 5-inch full-colour screen shows ride data and connects to your smartphone for music, calls, and navigation. The bike uses a keyless ignition system for easy start-up, though you’ll still need a physical key for the fuel tank and seat.
Safety systems include cornering ABS, traction control, and wheel lift control, all managed by a smart sensor that keeps the bike stable during tricky situations. You also get five ride modes — three pre-set and two that you can customise to suit your preferences for power delivery, traction, and engine braking.
Weighing 214kg fully fuelled and with a low seat height of 795mm, the CB1000F is easy to handle for a wide range of riders. The bikes boast a 16-litre fuel tank and Honda has also used recycled materials in parts like the seat base and mudguard as part of its sustainability efforts.
To help riders personalise their CB1000F, Honda offers three optional accessory packs. The Sport Pack adds styling bits, an engine guard, and a quickshifter. The Comfort Pack includes heated grips, a tank pad, and a softer seat. The Travel Pack is for touring, featuring soft panniers and a tank bag. These can also be bought individually, along with extras like a centre stand, bike cover, and alarm system.
The Honda CB1000F is a welcome return to a time when bikes were built with character and purpose. It looks straight out of a vintage racing catalogue, and are packed with modern features. For riders who want style, practicality, and a touch of nostalgia, the CB1000F will definitely hit the sweet spot.
While an India launch is highly unlikely, we can only hope and pray that atleast a few make their way to our shores.
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