History of Honda CB1000 (Big 1)

When first launched in 1992, the Honda CB1000 (Big 1) was like the ultimate naked street bike. It’s big, powerful, and reliable. From the beginning, it has been known for accelerating better than top speed, reaching 60 mph in just over 3 seconds. This was a decision made by a Honda engineer. Honda engineers untuned the powerful 4-stroke 998cc engine because they found it dangerous to speed over 130mph on an unfair bike. But this huge motorcycle provided all the thrills of speed with a beautiful retro styling.

At the heart of the Honda CB1000 (Big 1) was a water-cooled DOHC 998cc engine with four valves per cylinder exhausting a total of 96.50hp at 8500rpm. At 6000 rpm, the engine torque was 62.4 lbs per foot, giving the CB1000 excellent acceleration from a standing start. This naked bike was over 510 pounds of metal and rubber, so all of this power certainly helped! With excellent riders and smooth roads, the Honda CB1000 (Big 1) was known to easily exceed 120 mph and felt nimble and nimble at low speeds.

Honda engineers have provided the CB1000 (Big 1) with an excellent 5-speed gearbox for better control and handling. The long 1540mm wheelbase and single-unit chassis also helped keep this large machine fast and stable. Riders love the low seat position, with a 43mm telescopic fork on the front and two Showa shocks on the rear for a better ride. The Honda CB1000 (Big 1) was equipped with 120 / 70-18 tires with dual disc brakes on the front and 170 / 70-18 tires with single disc brakes on the back. All of these features helped riders around the world to confidently enjoy the adrenaline-based Superbike experience.

Production of the Honda CB1000 (Big 1) ceased in 1998, but this naked street bike continues to be a hit among former owners and motorcycle enthusiasts. One of the great attractions of the Honda CB1000 (Big 1) is that it lacks the bulk of plastic fairings that cover its internal organs and has the rugged, retro look of an old-fashioned Superbike. Honda’s reputation for high quality engine design deserves a 998cc unit, and 20 year old bikes are still racing on the streets of England. The Honda CB1000 (Big 1) is also popular with retro bike repairers, as genuine spare parts are still available at several trusted dealers.