Months after first appearing as a working concept, Honda has officially unveiled the production-ready CB1000F. This new model marks a exciting entry into the neo-retro segment, successfully marrying classic, timeless aesthetics with the cutting-edge engineering of a modern platform. While it shares its fundamental foundation with the contemporary CB1000 Hornet, the CB1000F is far from a simple cosmetic exercise; it’s a thoroughly reimagined machine designed for a completely different riding experience.
Engine & Performance
At its core beats the same legendary 1,000cc inline-four engine derived from the CBR1000RR Fireblade. However, Honda’s engineers have gone to great lengths to give the CB1000F its own unique soul. By fitting revised camshafts, retuning the intake, redesigning the airbox, and adding a new 4-2-1 exhaust system, they’ve fundamentally altered its power delivery.
The result is a more accessible and character-rich engine. Peak output is a claimed 123.7 horsepower at 9,000 rpm and 103 Nm of torque at 8,000 rpm—figures that are notably lower than the Hornet’s but delivered much earlier in the rev range. This tuning strategy promises a strong, responsive pull that is ideally suited for real-world riding, where low-end and mid-range grunt are more valuable than peak horsepower.
Complementing this, the gearbox ratios have been strategically revised. With shorter first and second gears and taller third to sixth ratios, the CB1000F is set up for brisk acceleration and relaxed highway cruising. Honda states that at 100 km/h in top gear, the engine turns a leisurely 4,000 rpm, making it a potentially excellent companion for longer journeys.
Chassis & Ergonomics
The CB1000F starts with the Hornet’s main frame but gets a completely dedicated subframe to accommodate its classic stepped seat and revised ergonomics. The goal was to create a more relaxed and upright riding triangle, evocative of motorcycles from a bygone era.
This focus on comfort is clear in the numbers. The seat height is a very accessible 795 mm, making it less intimidating than the Hornet, and the machine tips the scales at 214 kg with its 16-litre fuel tank full. The suspension duties are handled by fully adjustable Showa units, while braking is provided by capable Nissin components, including dual 310mm discs up front.
Modern Tech Wrapped in Retro Style
Don’t let the classic lines fool you; the CB1000F is a thoroughly modern motorcycle. It features a crisp 5-inch full-color TFT display, keyless ignition, and full-LED lighting. Its electronic rider aids are comprehensive yet intuitive, offering three preset riding modes (Sport, Standard, and Rain) plus two customizable ‘User’ modes that allow riders to fine-tune power delivery, engine braking, and traction control settings. Dual-channel ABS comes as standard, while a bi-directional quickshifter is available as an optional extra.
For those looking to personalize their ride, Honda will offer a wide range of accessories, including heated grips, a headlight cowl, a centre stand, and soft luggage options.
Pricing, Availability, and What’s Next
The CB1000F will be available in three distinct colour schemes: Silver/Blue, Silver/Black, and Black/Red. While European pricing is still under wraps, the Japanese market price of 1,397,000 Yen (approximately ₹8.11 lakh) positions it slightly above the CB1000 Hornet. This premium is expected to carry over to other global markets, with more detailed pricing and availability likely to be announced around the EICMA 2025 show in November.
